No "Science Sunday"... But... It Is "Civic Leadership" Sunday.

Just watch -- and listen. Compare the below, to the almost unfathomable fact that (and I won't link it, directly -- just Bill's reaction) at precisely the same time on Saturday night, the (for now) sitting president was retweeting a CGI-ed stolen version of Bill Pullman's speech, with Trump's head -- superimposed, on the tarmac, in a twenty-five year old sci-fi movie.

The studio has asked that it not be used as GOP campaign material. What a crass. . . moron.

In any event, here is the still-realest US civic leadership, in action:

. . . .[From his HBCU address; less widely shared:] [T]hese aren’t normal times. You’re being asked to find your way in a world in the middle of a devastating pandemic and a terrible recession. The timing is not ideal. And let’s be honest — a disease like this just spotlights the underlying inequalities and extra burdens that black communities have historically had to deal with in this country. We see it in the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on our communities, just as we see it when a black man goes for a jog, and some folks feel like they can stop and question and shoot him if he doesn’t submit to their questioning. . . .

And on the big unfinished goals in this country, like economic and environmental justice and health care for everybody, broad majorities agree on the ends. That’s why folks with power will keep trying to divide you over the means. That’s how nothing changes. You get a system that looks out for the rich and powerful and nobody else. So expand your moral imaginations, build bridges, and grow your allies in the process of bringing about a better world. . . .

Your participation in this democracy, your courage to stand up for what’s right, your willingness to forge coalitions — these actions will speak volumes. And if you are inactive, that will also speak volumes. Not just to the young folks coming up behind you — but to your parents, your peers, and the rest of the country. They need to see your leadership — you’re the folks we’ve been waiting for to come along. . . .

That’s the power you hold. The power to shine brightly for justice, and for equality, and for joy. You’ve earned your degree. And it’s up to you to use it. So many of us believe in you. I’m so proud of you. And as you set out to change the world, we’ll be the wind at your back. . . .

Onward, smiling. . . ever, smiling.

नमस्ते