Hi friend,

Happy Wednesday! As we settle into December, it’s a great time to focus on the positive steps we can take to end the year strong. Despite the challenges we’ve faced, today’s newsletter is here to remind us that progress is always possible—and sometimes, it’s closer than we think.

Let’s dive into the good news ⬇️

California lawmakers unveil new abortion protections ahead of Trump return to White House

Wisconsin judge strikes down law stripping government workers of collective bargaining rights

Second US judge revokes decision to create judicial vacancy after Trump's win

New York City honors first Black congresswoman on what would have been her 100th birthday

Biden moves to end subminimum wages for people with disabilities

Watch: 84-year-old reads poetry to TikTok followers to change lives

Uncertainty looms over Trump’s defense secretary pick Pete Hegseth

Brown University transfers ownership of a portion of its land to Pokanoket Indian Tribe

Watch: Couple's dog has the best time at their beach wedding

Casten introduces new privileged resolution to force Ethics Committee to release Gaetz report

California Democrat Adam Gray unseats Republican as last House race decided

Thank you for reading, and we hope these articles shine a light on your day.

In solidarity,

Emily from The Smile

P.S. Know someone who could use a dose of good news? Forward this email and encourage them to subscribe to The Smile. Let’s spread the positivity together. 🌟