As November is coming to a close, and we are approaching holidays that are near and dear to our hearts, we must keep in mind that November was a big month for 2015. The events that occurred are sure to stem far into the rest of the year. Although it seems feasible, we cannot just leave behind what is happening in the world around us as we fall into a turkey coma or lay covered in snow under a Christmas tree. Here are some of the biggest events of this past month, in case you missed them. Let the family dinner table discussions or debates, begin.
On Nov. 4, 2015, presidents of Taiwan and China met for the very first time since 1949 (the end of the Chinese revolution). Ten years ago this would have been an unthinkable suggestion, however, these two countries are now aiming to mend their relations. This may be the last time for these two countries to get the chance to do so, with upcoming 2016 elections in Taiwan.
On Nov. 9, 2015, Caitlin Jenner was honored at the Glamour US: Women of The Year Awards. Jenner was awarded the Transgender Champion award. The general public, however, argued against her honor stating that she cannot be a woman of the year, when she has not even been a woman for a year. Among these people, actress Rose McGowan protests the award saying, “We have had a very different experience than your life of male privilege”. A widowed husband of an NYPD officer killed on 9/11 returned his wife’s 2001 award, saying “I find it insulting to her memory, and the memory of other heroic women who have earned this award”. He does go on to claim that it isn’t the fact that she is transgender that upsets him, he supported Laverne Cox when she was the first transgender woman honored with the advocate award in 2014. He says it’s the fact that Jenner had the “Luxury of being part of the Kardashian circus…and living in a Malibu Barbie beach house… She was not a truly brave person fighting hourly for her existence and the existence of others” [referring to his deceased wife]. Glamour stands by their decision, stating, “Glamour’s Women of The Year Awards recognize women with a variety of backgrounds and experiences… Jenner has helped shine a light on the problems faced by transgender youth and given a voice to a community that is often unheard”
November 13
On Nov. 13, 2015, more than 120 people were killed in six locations across the city of Paris. The majority (at least 87) we’re murdered by gunmen at a rock concert in Bataclan Music Hall. ISIS has claimed full responsibility for these attacks. Eight of these ISIS attackers were killed that night, seven via suicide bombings. Both ISIS and police warn people that accomplices could still be on the loose. This attack was the indicator of other ISIS attacks to come, the group warns. Additionally, this attack led to a strong debate over Syrian refugee entrance into the United States. Many are divided over this issue, turning to the 2016 presidential candidates for their perspectives. Many Muslim activists across the country are speaking out against the stigma that all Muslims are in some way related to ISIS, and should be feared.
About a month ago, a Russian airliner crashed in Egypt, due to a homemade bomb. Security is reporting for the first time that it was a clear act of terrorism, killing 224 people on board. President Vladimir Putin has already ordered increased airstrikes on Syria, as ISIS had claimed responsibility for the attack.
On Nov. 20, 2015, 150 Mali citizens were held hostage in a hotel by an unidentified gunmen. 21 deaths were reported for the attacks that day, including 2 wounded soldiers. The assaults began at 7 a.m. and hostages we’re trapped for numerous hours from that point onward. Special forces were involved in trying to free the remaining hostages and uncover the source of the attack. An Islamic militant group, Al Mourabitoun, claimed joint responsibility for the attack, along with al Qaeda. The group says the attack was in retaliation towards the government's aggression. The group then went on to demand the release of their prisoners in France. French Defense Minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian said in an interview that the group leader, Mokhtar Belmokhtar, was probably behind the attack, however the French are not entirely sure. In June, the U.S. underwent an airstrike in Libya, with Belmokhtar as their target. Libyan officials had claimed he had been killed, however the U.S. never publicly confirmed his death with a statement.
There is no doubt that December 2015 will be another month for the books, especially considering the events in the month preceding it. We can all hope for the best, and do whatever we can in our power to ensure that this next month is the absolute best month of the year for us. Happy December, but remember November.
