Happy Friday, Panthers! Today, The Prowler held its annual Christmas party with cereal and a white elephant gift exchange. As we roll into exam week, kick back and study with this week’s KICs. This week we have sacred artifacts from the Vatican returned to rightful owners, victims of New Orleans set to receive compensation after years of negotiation, a man hospitalized after an overnight shooting, and NATO watching for war.
World – Sacred artifacts from the Vatican returned to rightful owners
More than 60 pieces of precious cargo were returned to Indigenous groups after over a century. Items like a Inuit sealskin kayak were taken from Inuit, first nations, and Metis communities.
The reunion was backed by a three-year campaign from Indigenous leaders. It was even endorsed by Pope Francis before he passed. The artifacts have been in the church since 1925.
Many more museums have started returning artifacts that were unethically taken from their owners. Indigenous people are celebrating this meaningful return with press conferences and gatherings.
National – After years of negotiation, victims of New Orleans will receive compensation
On Monday, a US federal judge approved a settlement by the New Orleans Archdiocese of at least $230 million to hundreds of sexual assault victims. The settlement was confirmed by the spokesperson of the church to The Associated Press.
During the trial, over 500 individuals testified as victims, explaining how even after decades the assaults still affect them. Some recalled battling substance abuse and struggling with intimacy. Their experiences with the Archdiocese only led them to questioning if they were the ones at fault.
Back in May of 2020, the Archdiocese filed for bankruptcy. Survivors claim that by doing so the Archdiocese leadership would be able to avoid further court questioning.
State – Man hospitalized after overnight shooting
Early Wednesday morning, a 50-year-old victim had a gunshot wound, but he was conscious and breathing. This happened around McDaniel St. and near University Avenue in Atlanta.
Police state that the victim was shot by a known male suspect that fled before the officers arrived. Officers have barricaded the street. Currently, there are no details regarding what led to the shooting.
No further details are available. The investigation remains open.
Politics – NATO watchful for war
During a speech in Berlin on Thursday, NATO chief Mark Rutte voiced that he believes Russia may attack within the next five years. He urges that NATO must better prepare.
“We are Russia’s next target,” Rutte said. Rutte stressed what Putin has already achieved and sacrificed. The NATO chief alluded to saying this is all a time bomb.
NATO continues to monitor rising tensions among nations. Other than preparation, nothing is yet a concern.