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Moments after Daniris Espinal walked into her new apartment in Brooklyn, she prayed. In ensuing nights, she would awaken and touch the walls for reassurancefinding in them a relief that turned to tears over her morning coffee.Those walls were possible through a federal program that pays rent for some 60,000 families and individuals fleeing homelessness or domestic violence. Espinal was fleeing both.But the program, Emergency Housing Vouchers, is running out of moneyand quickly.Funding is expected to be used up by the end of next year, according to a letter from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and obtained by The Associated Press. That would leave tens of thousands across the country scrambling to pay their rent.It would be among the largest one-time losses of rental assistance in the U.S., analysts say, and the ensuing evictions could churn these peopleafter several years of rebuilding their livesback onto the street or back into abusive relationships.“To have it stop would completely upend all the progress that they’ve made,” said Sonya Acosta, policy analyst at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, which researches housing assistance.“And then you multiply that by 59,000 households,” she said.The program, launched in 2021 by then-President Joe Biden as part of the pandemic-era American Rescue Plan Act, was allocated $5 billion to help pull people out of homelessness, domestic violence and human trafficking.People from San Francisco to Dallas to Tallahassee, Florida, were enrolledamong them children, seniors and veteranswith the expectation that funding would last until the end of the decade.But with the ballooning cost of rent, that $5 billion will end far faster.Last month, HUD sent letters to groups dispersing the money, advising them to “manage your EHV program with the expectation that no additional funding from HUD will be forthcoming.”The program’s future rests with Congress, which could decide to add money as it crafts the federal budget. But it’s a relatively expensive prospect at a time when Republicans, who control Congress, are dead set on cutting federal spending to afford tax cuts.Democratic Rep. Maxine Waters, who championed the program four years ago, is pushing for another $8 billion infusion.But the organizations lobbying Republican and Democratic lawmakers to reup the funding told the AP they aren’t optimistic. Four GOP lawmakers who oversee the budget negotiations did not respond to AP requests for comment.“We’ve been told it’s very much going to be an uphill fight,” said Kim Johnson, the public policy manager at the National Low Income Housing Coalition.Espinal and her two daughters, aged 4 and 19, are living on one of those vouchers in a three-bedroom apartment with an over $3,000 monthly rentan amount extremely difficult to cover without the voucher.Four years ago, Espinal fought her way out of a marriage where her husband controlled her decisions, from seeing her family and friends to leaving the apartment to go shopping.When she spoke up, her husband said she was wrong, or in the wrong or crazy.Isolated and in the haze of postpartum depression, she didn’t know what to believe. “Every day, little by little, I started to feel not like myself,” she said. “It felt like my mind wasn’t mine.”When notices arrived in March 2021 seeking about $12,000 in back rent, it was a shock. Espinal had quit her job at her husband’s urging and he had promised to cover family expenses.Police reports documenting her husband’s bursts of anger were enough for a judge to give her custody of their daughter in 2022, Espinal said.But her future was precarious: She was alone, owed thousands of dollars in back rent and had no income to pay it or support her newborn and teenage daughters.Financial aid to prevent evictions during the pandemic kept Espinal afloat, paying her back rent and keeping the family out of shelters. But it had an expiration date.Around that time, the Emergency Housing Vouchers program was rolled out, targeting people in Espinal’s situation.A “leading cause of family homelessness is domestic violence” in New York City, said Gina Cappuccitti, director of housing access and stability services at New Destiny Housing, a nonprofit that has connected 700 domestic violence survivors to the voucher program.Espinal was one of those 700, and moved into her Brooklyn apartment in 2023.The relief went beyond finding a secure place to live, she said. “I gained my worth, my sense of peace, and I was able to rebuild my identity.”Now, she said, she’s putting aside money in case of the worst. Because, “that’s my fear, losing control of everything that I’ve worked so hard for.” Jesse Bedayn Associated Press/Report for America
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E-Commerce
The death of a pope sets in motion a series of carefully orchestrated rites and rituals well before the conclave to elect his successor begins. They involve the certification of death and public display of his body for the faithful to pay their respects, followed by the funeral and burial.Pope Francis, who died on Monday, revised various rites last year, simplifying the funeral rituals to emphasize his role as a mere bishop and allowing for burial outside the Vatican in keeping with his wishes. But the core elements remain, including the three key moments that must be observed between the death of a pope and his burial.The reforms are incorporated into the slim red volume “Ordo Exsequiarum Romani Pontificis,” Latin for “Rite of Burial for Roman Pontiffs.” Why were changes to the funeral rites necessary? While popes often tinker with the rules regulating the conclave that elects their successor, a revision of the papal funeral rites hadn’t been undertaken since 2000.The changes became necessary after Francis expressed his own wishes, and after Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI died on December 31, 2022. For Benedict, the Vatican had to work out the novelty of a funeral for the first retired pope in 600 years.A few months later, Francis revealed he was working with the Vatican’s master of liturgical ceremonies, Archbishop Diego Ravelli, to overhaul the entire book of rites to simplify them.In explaining the reforms, Ravelli said the changes aimed “to emphasize even more that the Roman Pontiff’s funeral is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ and not of a powerful man of this world.” The declaration of death The three main stations, or moments, occur first in his home, then in St. Peter’s Basilica, and then in the place of burial.The reform allows for the formal confirmation of death to occur in Francis’ personal chapel rather than his bedroom. It is unclear why, the change may be more practical than anything since Francis chose to live in a small suite in the Vatican’s Santa Marta hotel rather than the Apostolic Palace. He has a personal chapel at Santa Marta.Upon the pope’s death, the head of the Vatican health service examines the body, ascertains the cause of death and writes a report. The body is dressed in white.The body rests in the pope’s personal chapel for the ritual pronouncement of death, presided over by the camerlengo, the Vatican official who runs the Holy See administration between the death or resignation of one pope and the election of another. The camerlengo is American Cardinal Kevin Farrell, one of Francis’ most trusted aides.In a change from the past, the rite no longer requires the body to be placed in the traditional three coffins made of cypress, lead and oak. Now, the pope’s body is placed in a wooden coffin, with a zinc coffin inside. The pope is dressed in red liturgical vestments, his miterthe traditional headdress of bishopsand the pallium woolen stole, a kind of scarf. The Pasqual candle, a large, decorated candle used at Easter, is placed nearby. The camerlengo drafts the formal declaration of death, attaching the certificate that had been prepared by the health service chief. The master of liturgical celebrations, Ravelli, then decides when other faithful can pay their respects before the coffin is moved to St. Peter’s Basilica for public viewing. Once in the basilica When the body is brought into the basilica, the Litany of Saints chant is sung. The camerlengo leads the procession.In another change, the pope’s body is no longer placed on an elevated bier. Rather, the simplified wooden coffin is placed facing the pews, with the Pasqual candle nearby. The sealing of the coffin The night before the funeral, the camerlengo presides over the closing and sealing of the coffin, in the presence of other senior cardinals. A white cloth is placed over the pope’s face. A bag containing coins minted during his papacy is placed in the coffin along with a one-page written account of his papacyknown in Italian as a “rogito,” a word indicating an official deed. It is read aloud by the master of liturgical ceremonies and then rolled up and slipped inside a cylindrical tube that is placed inside the coffin. Another copy is kept in the Vatican archives. The covers of both the zinc coffin and the wooden one bear a cross and the papal coat of arms.Francis’ coat of arms, which he kept from when he was bishop, features a shield and the monogram of his Jesuit order, with the words “Miserando atque eligendo,” Latin for “Having had mercy, he called him.” It comes from an episode in the Gospel where Christ picks a seemingly unworthy person to follow him. The funeral and burial The funeral is presided over by the dean of the College of Cardinals or, if that is not possible, by the vice dean or another senior cardinal. The current dean is Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 91. The vice dean is Argentine Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, 81. Francis earlier this year extended both of their five-year terms rather than appoint new ones.Francis’ reform allows for burial outside the Vatican, with the camerlengo presiding. Various seals are impressed on the coffin, and it is placed inside the tomb.Francis has said he wants to be buried not in St. Peter’s Basilica or its grottoes, where most popes are buried, but in the St. Mary Major Basilica across town. His choice reflects his veneration of an icon of the Virgin Mary that is located there, the Salus Populi Romani (Salvation of the people of Rome).After every foreign trip, Francis would go to the basilica to pray before the Byzantine-style painting that features an image of Mary, draped in a blue robe, holding the infant Jesus who in turn holds a jeweled golden book.“It’s my great devotion,” Francis told Mexico’s N+ in revealing his future burial plans. “The place is already prepared.”With the burial, the Catholic Church begins nine days of official mourning, known as the “novemdiales” and the conclave begins. Nicole Winfield, Associated Press
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E-Commerce
As remote work becomes the norm rather than the exception, more U.S. professionals are redefining what it means to live and work well. With soaring living costs, healthcare hurdles, and burnout increasingly baked into American life, many are choosing to build their careers abroad. This shift isnt just about finding cheaper rent or a temporary escape. Its about discovering countries that actively welcome remote workers through smart visa policies, strong infrastructure, and communities that foster sustainable, fulfilling lifestyles.From Asias tech hubs to Europes historic towns, these 10 destinations are leading the remote work revolution and offering a chance to truly engage, not just pass through. Heres where to go and why these spots are setting the standard for the future of work. 1. Spain Spains Digital Nomad Visa officially launched in 2023, quickly becoming one of the most attractive remote work programs in Europe. Available to non-EU nationals, including U.S. citizens, the visa allows remote workers to live and work in Spain for up to 12 months, with the option to renew for up to five years. Applicants must be employed by a non-Spanish company or freelance for international clients and demonstrate a minimum income of around 2,762.66. Visa holders are eligible for a 24% flat tax rate for the first four years, capped at 600,000/year, making it especially appealing for higher-earning nomads and entrepreneurs.Shane Clark, President of EuroAmerican Financial Advisors, has been based in Spain for the past eight years advising Americans moving abroad. “We’ve noticed a huge uplift in inquiries since the election last year that hasn’t slowed. Election results always provide a catalyst for people who were considering moving anyway, but this time, it has been turbocharged. Spain offers a relaxed lifestyle, affordable living costs, and great digital infrastructure in the cities.Many remote professionals are headed to cities like Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona, and the Balearic Islands, where theyre finding a lifestyle that blends Mediterranean ease with modern urban energy. Spain offers reliable internet, a growing number of coworking hubs, and strong communities of international creatives and founders. Beyond the vibrant cities, Spains regional diversity makes it easy to find your perfect balance, whether thats vineyard views in La Rioja, surf breaks in the Canary Islands, or slow living in Andalusia. Affordable high-speed rail connects much of the country, and the cost of living remains lower than most Western European countries, especially outside of major metros. 2. Portugal Cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Braga have emerged as thriving hubs for remote workers, offering reliable high-speed internet, a lively creative and startup scene, and a warm, welcoming community of international professionals. Portugals Digital Nomad Visa is an ideal solution for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs looking to live and work legally in Portugal. The visa allows non-EU/EEA citizens to apply for either a short-term stay or a long-term residence permit. To qualify, applicants must earn at least 3,480 per month from foreign income, provide proof of accommodation, obtain a Portuguese tax number, and typically open a Portuguese bank account. The D8 Visa also allows for family reunification, provides access to Portugals excellent public healthcare system, and offers a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after five yearsmaking it a top choice for global remote professionals.Portugal meanwhile has the advantage of being an hour nearer the U.S. in terms of its time zone, finishes Clark. Another driver for Americans moving to Portugal is that property is very affordable in southern Europe compared to in many parts of the U.S.. In particular we are seeing a lot of tech industry workers coming over from northern California to work remotely and experience a different lifestyle and culture in Europe.” Portugal offers sun-drenched coastlines, charming cobblestone neighborhoods, and a relaxed pace that makes room for inspiration and balance. Add in easy Schengen access, strong safety rankings, and a national obsession with good food and great coffee, and its easy to see why Portugal is a place to stay and thrive. 3. Japan In March 2024, Japan officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa under the Designated Activities residence category, opening the door for remote workers around the world to live and work in the country for up to six months. To qualify, applicants must earn at least 10 million JPY annually (approximately $67,000 USD), hold citizenship in a visa-exempt country with a tax treaty with Japan, and have valid private health insurance. Remote work must be for companies or clients based outside of Japan, and dependents, including spouses and children are permitted to join. Japans appeal to remote professionals goes far beyond its big cities. Locations like Hinohara Village, tucked in the mountains just 90 minutes from Tokyo, are building digital infrastructure with remote workers in mindoffering fiber-optic internet, free public Wi-Fi, and English-language support rolling out in April 2025. Over 93% forested, the area blends nature and connectivity for a peaceful but productive lifestyle. Hinohara is also launching dedicated accommodations for work stays in 2025, making it easier for nomads to explore long-term relocation options without committing upfront. From Tokyos booming tech scene and unmatched internet speeds to rural regions investing in modern infrastructure, Japan is positioning itself as a compelling hub for international remote work. Add in low crime rates, reliable public transit, and a rich cultural landscape, and its easy to see why this new visa could be a game changer for digital nomads seeking stability and inspiration. 4. Estonia Estonia was one of the first countries in the world to roll out a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa, positioning itself as a forward-thinking hub for remote professionals and startup founders. Introduced in 2020, the visa allows non-EU nationals to live in Estonia for up to 12 months while working remotely for a foreign employer or running their own location-independent business. Applicants need to demonstrate a minimum monthly income of 4,500 net income and meet basic documentation requirementsbut the process is streamlined, with an application system that reflects Estonias digital-first mindset. Known globally for its e-residency program, paperless government, and startup-friendly policies, Estonia has earned its reputation as a digital leader. Tallinn, the capital, combines cobblestone charm with tech-world efficiency, offering ultrafast Wi-Fi, an active community of international entrepreneurs, and coworking spaces tucked inside medieval buildings. 5. Thailand Thailand continues to be a go-to for digital nomads seeking a blend of affordability, connectivity, and tropical charm. With its welcoming visa policies and thriving expat scene, the country makesit easy to stay productive while living in paradise. While many nomads enter on a 60-day tourist visa (often extendable), Thailand also offers the Smart Visa, a long-term option for highly skilled professionals in fields like tech, health, and innovation. The Smart Visa allows remote workers, entrepreneurs, and investors to stay for up to four years, bypassing the usual work permit requirements and streamlining the path to longer-term living. Top hubs like Chiang Mai and Bangkok offer everything a remote worker could ask for: high-speed internet, modern coworking spaces, great coffee scenes, and a lower cost of living. Chiang Mai, in particular, has earned a reputation for its laid-back vibe and strong sense of creative community. Bangkok brings a more metropolitan pace, complete with major airport access, and a growing number of international tech startups. Beyond the cities, Thailands beaches and islands provide a slower, more scenic way to work remotely. Places like Phuket, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phangan are now home to coworking cafés and coliving villas that cater to digital professionals. 6. Mexico Mexico remains one of the most popular destinations for U.S. digital nomads, combining visa flexibility, strong infrastructure, and a lifestyle rich in culture, cuisine, and community. Through its Temporary Resident Visa, remote workers from most countries can stay in Mexico for up to 12 months initially, with the option to renew for a total of four years. Cities like Mexico City, Oaxaca, Playa del Carmen, and Mérida have quickly become global hotspots for remote workers. Youll find reliable internet, vibrant coworking spaces, and tight-knit expat communities in nearly every major destination. Mexico City stands out for its dynamic creative and tech scene, world-class food, and endless energy, while beach towns along the Riviera Maya offer oceanfront living without sacrificing connectivity. 7. South Korea South Korea is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting destinations for remote workers, thanks to its brand-new Digital Nomad Visaofficially launched in early 2024. Known locally as the Workation Visa, this program allows foreign nationals employed by overseas companies to live and work in South Korea for up to one year, with the option to extend for another. To qualify, applicants must show proof of remote employment, an annual income of at least 85 million KRW (about $63,000 USD), and valid health insurance. The visa also supports accompanying family members, making it a strong choice for both solo professionals and digital nomad families. At the center of the action is Seoula city built for high performance. With some of the fastest internet speeds in the world, an abundance of 24-hour cafés, cutting-edge infrastructure, and a thriving startup scene, it’s a digital haven that never sleeps. Yet beneath the tech-forward surface lies a culture rich in tradition, hospitality, and creativity. For those craving a more relaxed remote lifestyle, Jeju Island is an underrated gem. This volcanic island offers black-sand beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, and a growing digital infrastructure geared toward remote work. The island is part of South Koreas push to support “Workation Zones,” offering extended-stay housing, coworking facilities, and nature-infused productivity. With a cost of living approximately 30% lower than major U.S. cities, South Korea provides a dynamic, well-connected, and culturally rich environment for remote professionals ready to plug in and thrive. 8. Vietnam From the buzz of Ho Chi Minh City to the coastal calm of Da Nang, this Southeast Asian gem offers an unbeatable blend of affordability and creative energy. Coworking spaces can be found for under $100/month, and youll find sleek, modern apartments starting around $300. Whether you’re deep into a product launch or writing your next screenplay, the low cost of living gives you a serious runway to build, breathe, and grow. If youre earning your income from abroad, Vietnam doesnt tax itmaking it an especially attractive spot for freelancers, founders, and remote teams. Most nomads come intending to stay a few months and end up recalibrating their entire life plan.Tom Zachystal from International Asset Management has been advising Americans abroad on investing and retirement planning for over 20 years. “We’ve definitely seen some shifts in who’s moving abroad and the most popular countries Americans are moving to. There used to be more retirees and American firms sending employees abroad, whereas in the past few years the majority are now young entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and young families, with a sense of adventure and a desire to explore being major motivations. Do your planning and seek advice thoughmany people don’t realize for example that not all U.S. banks and brokerage firms can continue working with non-U.S. residents.” 9. Norway Norway offers one of the most seamless and inspiring remote work environments in the world. With world-renowned rankings in safety, healthcare, infrastructure, and overall quality of life, its a destination where everything just worksefficiently, beautifully, and reliably. Whether you’re based in Oslo, Bergen, or a small village tucked between fjords, youll find high-speed internet, clean design, and a strong sense of balance between work and nature. Public services are excellent, and the overall standard of living makes Norway a standout for those who prioritize well-being and focus. While Norway doesnt currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa, there are flexible pathways for remote professionals. The Self-Employed Person residence permit allows freelancers and entrepreneurs to live and work in Norway, provided they have a signed contract with a Norwegian client, a detailed business plan, and a projected annual income of at least 35,719 (approx. 439,521 NOK). Additionally, remote workers connected to startups, innovation hubs, or cross-border collaborations can explore alternative residence options through Norways Skilled Worker and Startup tracks. The application process is straightforward, with clear guidance and strong institutional support. Cities like Oslo blend modern culture with smart coworking spaces, while towns like Troms and lesund offer access to unfiltered nature without losing digital connectivity. 10. Georgia Georgia has emerged as new hotspot digital nomads thanks to its forward-thinking Remotely from Georgia program, which allows citizens from 95+ countries to live and work in the country visa-free for up to one year. Launched in 2020 to support the rise of remote work, the initiative requires basic documentationlike proof of remote income (recommended at $2,000/month or more), health insurance, and a confirmed place to stay. With an easy online application process and a welcoming stance toward expats, its become one of the most accessible digital nomad programs in the world. Tbilisi, the capital, is where most nomads set up basedrawn in by its cobblestone streets, vibrant café culture, and growing startup scene. You can live comfortably in the city for under $700/month, with coworking spaces, boutique Airbnbs, and lively expat meetups throughout the week. The country also offers major financil incentives: a 1% flat tax for registered entrepreneurs under Georgias Small Business Status (up to ~$155,000 annual turnover), making it especially attractive for freelancers, solo founders, and remote consultants looking to optimize their tax strategy.If youre thinking of making the leap abroad, its not just about picking the right destinationits also about staying compliant with U.S. tax laws and understanding what financial responsibilities follow you across borders.Vincenzo Villamena, founder of Online Taxman, has been a digital nomad for over 15 years, living and working in different countries around the world. “Most Americans don’t realize that they have to keep filing U.S. taxes when they move abroad, and this is something that they should definitely factor in. Luckily, there are tax breaks such as the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion for Americans working abroad. Remote working became normalized in the pandemic, which also inspired a desire in many people to go out and explore the world. We now work with thousands of American international digital nomads, both entrepreneurs and those working remotely for US firms. In general, I would say, get informed about both U.S. taxes for expats and the local tax implications of different digital nomad visas, and seek advice if you need to.”As more Americans rethink what success, freedom, and quality of life really mean, the global map is shifting. Whether you’re chasing sunlight, savings, community, or simply a change of pace, the world awaits.
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E-Commerce
Monday, April 21, 2025, is Easter Monday. It’s the final day of the long weekend of Easter celebrations that traditionally kicks off on Good Friday and is celebrated by millions of people across the world. But while Easter Monday may be a widely celebrated religious holiday, many institutions remain open on the day, even if they were closed on Good Friday or Easter Sunday. However, some institutions will be closed in observance of the day. Heres what you need to know about whats open and closed on Easter Monday 2025. Is Easter Monday a federal holiday? No. Easter Monday is not a federally recognized public holiday in the United States. This means that federal institutions that are normally open on a Monday should be operating as normal today, too. However, its worth pointing out that Republican Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri has recently introduced a bill called the Easter Monday Act of 2025 that would make Easter Monday a federal holiday, according to K8 News in Arkansas. It remains to be seen whether the bill will advance through Congress. Are banks open on Easter Monday? Yes, most major banks will be open on Easter Monday. This includes banks like Chase, PNC, Wells Fargo, Citi, and more. It should go without saying that banks online services will also be operating as usual. Are ATMs open on Easter Monday? Yep. Just as banks are, ATMs will be open on Easter Monday. But note that after a long holiday weekend, sometimes ATMs may have low cash availability. Is the post office open on Easter Monday? Yes, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is open on Easter Monday. The USPS is a federal organization, so it only pauses operations on federally recognized holidays. This means all USPS locations should be operating as normal. Is mail delivered on Easter Monday? Yes. The U.S. Postal Service will be making home mail deliveries on Easter Monday. Are FedEx and UPS operating on Easter Monday? Despite FedEx having closed or operating under a reduced schedule some days over the Easter holiday period, the private shipper says it will have normal operations on Easter Monday, according to FedExs holiday schedule. Likewise, UPS will also be operating as normal on Easter Monday, according to its holiday schedule. Is the stock market open on Easter Monday? Yes. Major U.S. stock markets will be open on Easter Monday, including the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the Nasdaq. Both these markets were closed on Good Friday, but their holiday schedules do not include Easter Monday. Many other major stock markets around the world are closed in observance of Easter Monday. Are schools open on Easter Monday? This depends, so it is best to check directly with the individual school in question. In many states, public schools may be open if Easter Monday doesnt coincide with their Spring Break week. However, according to the website Time and Date, Easter Monday 2025 coincides with Patriots’ Day in Maine and Massachusetts, which is a public holiday in those states. So, public schools in those states may be closed today. Likewise, private religious schools may choose to be closed today. But again, its best to check with your particular school in question directly. Are restaurants open on Easter Monday? Most company-run chain restaurants should be open as normal, including the usual suspects like McDonalds, Taco Bell, Subway, and Burger King. Fast casual chains like Chipotle and the like should also be open, as well as sit-down establishments like Red Lobster and Olive Garden. Most branches of coffee chains like Dunkin’ and Starbucks should also be open. However, do note that franchisees usually have the power to set their own holiday closures. So its possible individual stores of well-known chains could be closed in particular areas if the owners of those stores observe Easter Monday as a holiday. Are retail stores open on Easter Monday? Most big-box retail stores should be open on Easter Monday. This includes the usual big chains like Best Buy, Target, Costco, Home Depot, and Walmart. Are pharmacies open on Easter Monday? Most chain pharmacies like those at Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid should be open as normal. Are grocery stores open on Easter Monday? Yes, most regional grocery stores should be operating as normal on Easter Monday. However, note that they may be busier than usual today as many were likely closed all day on Easter Sunday.
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E-Commerce
When David Mesfin was producing his documentary on Black surfing culture, Wade in the Water, back in 2023, he had a problem. Like millions of other people since ChatGPT and other GenAI tools emerged in late 2022, Mesfin was experimenting and using these tools to generate imagery for the film. But the results were always the same: white surfers with darkened skin, says Mesfin, a creative director at ad agency Innocean. It was a clear sign that these systems werent built with us in mind. That moment made it impossible to ignore how deeply bias is embedded in the technology. This week, sparked by that moment, Mesfin and his colleagues have launched Breaking Bias, a collaboration with stock image firm Pocstock, and more than 22 agency partners. As part of the project, 16 photographers donated their time to capture more inclusive images to help create what theyre calling the first-ever Ethical AI Guidebooka framework that helps creators and developers make AI more like the real world. Only 2.3% of AI-generated images of dentists featured Asians, despite the fact they make up 22% of the profession. About 9.6% of nurses are Latino, but 0% of AI-generated images reflected them. As more and more marketers utilize AI to create content, its crucial to build and maintain data sets that represent reality as accurately as possible. The goal of the Ethical AI Guidebook is to spark a mindset shiftencouraging content creators, agencies, and AI developers to make inclusivity a core part of how they generate and use imagery, says Mesfin. This initiative is about more than just fixing flawed outputs; its about creating long-term behavioral change within the AI ecosystem. By offering practical guidance and real-world examples, we aim to help the industry build technology that reflects the full spectrum of humanity.” Training challenge So far, the project has created more than 96,000 images for Pocstocks inventory, and the images will be accessible to companies that utilize AI image generation like Adobe, Amazon, Canva, Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Shutterstock. The biggest challenge for Mesfin and project collaborators was the vetting process to make sure they selected photographers who not only had technical skill but also understood and were connected to the communities they were aiming to represent. We werent looking for models; we were looking for real people, and that meant being intentional about casting talent that reflected the full spectrum of the demographic, says Mesfin. For example, when capturing Black surfers, we made it a point to include both men and women, with a range of skin tones from dark to light. We also prioritized having both male and female photographers involved to bring different perspectives to the work. Strategic approach The challenge of tackling bias in AI models has been an ongoing issue for years. Pocstock cofounder and chief relationship officer DeSean Brown says that if the goal is for AI to produce outcomes that would appear more authentic and inclusive to humans there needs to be a finely curated and strategic approach to capturing excessive amounts of images and data. “We need to target specific people, communities, and actions, [then] capture and label the images accurately with cultural and technical nuance, says Brown. Many content creators and collectors may not have the experience, process, or resources to assess negative stereotypes and bias or the ability to label data in a culturally accurate way. Continued partnership among tech companies, content creators, stock and data collection companies can help the industry get to where it needs to be. Given the scale of the task at hand, Breaking Bias is an ongoing project that is always looking for new content partners to join who want to help build more representative data sets. If youre part of an AI company, we welcome your collaboration, too, says Mesfin. This is a collective effort, and the more voices we bring to the table, the stronger and more accurate the technology becomes.
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E-Commerce
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