This week, the 365 Amplified crew covers a range of timely and thought-provoking topics:

• 🏥 Meriter Nurses Win Contract Fight Omar recaps the surprising outcome of the Meriter nurses' five-day strike, which ended in a new contract featuring an 8% raise over two years and steps toward improved staffing ratios and safety accountability.

• 🏛️ Hospitals Shift DEI Language Amid Political Pressure Rob breaks down new reporting from Wisconsin Watch on how major healthcare systems like SSM and UW Health are altering their DEI messaging in response to anticipated federal scrutiny—raising deeper questions about equity, research, and trust in medical care.

• 🏳️‍🌈 Pride Flags and Politics The hosts react to the Wisconsin Historical Society’s quiet decision to not fly the Pride flag this year, unlike many other state institutions. The team digs into what “being political” really means—and what it says when you choose not to be.

• 📦 Local Business Spotlight: JNJ Gifts Wins Big Rob shares an inspiring update on mother-daughter duo Jerina Vincent and Natania Julius of JNJ Gifts, who recently won $10,000 on Project Pitch It. Their story of persistence and innovation is one to watch.

• 🧐 Question of the Week: What Shouldn’t Exist? The team closes the episode on a lighter note by pondering: What everyday thing should just… not exist?

👉 Know someone making a difference in Wisconsin’s Asian communities? Nominate them for the 2025 Most Influential Asian Leaders list at madison365.org/most-influential-nominations.

Connect:

• Full coverage at Madison365.org

• Support Local Journalism: If you appreciate our work, consider donating to keep 365 Amplified and Madison365 thriving. Visit madison365.org/donate to contribute.

• Follow Us: Stay connected for real-time news updates and discussions: 📲 BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

🎧 Subscribe & tune in every Friday for the latest insights on local and national news!