Informing, engaging & connecting the people of the world. DECEMBER 12, 2019

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President Donald Trump issued an executive order Wednesday that interprets members of the Jewish religion as part of a distinct nationality. The measure is aimed at helping combat growing anti-Semitism on U.S. college campuses.

ON THIS DAY IN AMERICAN HISTORY On December 12, 1917, Father Edward J. Flanagan, opens the doors to a home for troubled and neglected children near Omaha, Nebraska. The facility, which would later be called Boys Town, initially took in six boys but would soon grow into a grade school, high school and vocational school. Flanagan’s story inspired the 1938 Academy Award-winning movie, Boys Town, which starred Spencer Tracy and Mickey Rooney. Boys Town still exists today, but it is now called Boys and Girls Town. It operates in several states.

VIDEO: Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg is at the top of the polls in the key state of Iowa, which holds the first-in-the-nation caucus in February. He also has risen to the top tier nationally. But criticism that the South Bend, Indiana, mayor has little support from black voters and lacks political experience continues to shadow his political narrative. VOA went to South Bend to hear what residents think about his presidential aspirations.

Top American officials say the U.S. is hopeful the recent prisoner exchange will lead to a broader discussion on consular affairs between the U.S. and Iran.

VIDEO: A new rehab technology company helps patients maximize physical therapy and regain movement after paralysis—through gaming.

As the International Criminal Court faces criticism in the U.S. and on the African continent, Judge Chile Eboe-Osuji, president of the ICC, told VOA he is hopeful relationships can be repaired.