Produced By Vincent Turner, Developed By Robert Sacchi, 115 pages. Phase: Pre-production/Development, Budget Estimation: $23,000-314,000. Pitch deck and budget list available, please email synchchaos@gmail.com if interested.

Charles Griffin, a philosophy professor, is challenged by Adam, one of his students, over his unruly behaviour while lecturing. Though Charles is unhappy lecturing by the books, Adam’s challenge becomes the inspiration behind his nascent philosophy.

As Chin says, “Published by Nun Prophet Press and curated by Jerome Berglund, Heterodox Haiku Journal editor, this book combines poetry with visual art to offer a unique reading experience. Whether you’re a fan of poetry, art, or both, this book promises to be a delightful addition to your collection.

You can find it here for $4.00. Please grab a copy and help support indie publishers! Your support means the world to me and to the indie publishing community.”

John Portelli, Maltese-Canadian author and retired professor, is planning to edit a collection of poetry inspired by the awful situation in Gaza. All proceeds from the sale of the book will be generously donated to poet friend Ahmed Miqdad who, together with his family, have been suffering great pain both physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Portelli has already helped Ahmed by co-authoring a book with him “The Shadow: Poems for the Children of Gaza” (Horizons Malta, 2024). From the sale of this book he donated 1400 euros to Ahmed via the office of the Palestinian Embassy in Malta. He welcomes poems for consideration for this collection which he aims to be of very good quality. To publish the book we also need to collect some funds. 

Thus far he has found donors who have contributed 350 euros toward the publication of this anthology.  We will need another 350 euros. Any donations are welcome.

 If you wish to submit some poems, please email John on John.portelli@utoronto.ca.

Lyric Stage Boston
presents: Crumbs From the Table of Joy

Performances begin Friday, Jan. 10 and run through Sunday, Feb. 2.

“I enjoyed the play but as a “black” male in America, I found it at times painful to watch. Reminiscent of Lorraine Hansberry’s 1959 play “A Raisin in the Sun”, two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage’s play “Crumbs at the Table of Joy” (both play titles were inspired by poems from Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes) is a germane, prescient, at times, biting and raw adaptation of atavistic racism of the civil rights movement and post-civil war Jim Crow era, mediated with sporadic sidesplitting comic relief and adolescent idealism through day dreams of movie magic of the 1950s, providing complex historical context for dialogue, understanding and compassion in confluence with the racial and sociopolitical disunity manifesting in present day society. A vibrant and illuminating depiction of the “Black” working-class struggle for equality and inclusion replete with dramaturgical artistry”

                                                                                                                             —Jacques Fleury, Patch News-Boston

                                                                                                                                Synchronized Chaos Literary Journal

Crumbs From the Table of Joy

Two sisters and their recently widowed father struggle to find their place in the world while holding tight to the love they have for each other.

Boston, MA: Lyric Stage Boston begins the new year with Lynn Nottage’s touching portrait of a family longing to find the light and spark that has been dimmed in their everyday lives. Directed by Tasia A. Jones and featuring a cast of new talents and Boston-area favorites, Crumbs From the Table of Joy is the perfect way to warm your heart and enrapture your mind this winter season.

Adrift in Brooklyn during the racially charged 1950s, two teenage sisters Ernestine and Ermina live with their devout, recently widowed father, Godfrey, who follows the teachings of spiritual leader Father Divine. Almost to the point of obsession, Godfrey’s staunch beliefs cause his girls to heal their wounds with Hollywood films, daydreams, and lots of cookies. Their humdrum lives are turned upside down with the arrival of their vivacious Aunt Lily, who brings with her a few bad habits and a taste for rebellion. When Godfrey makes a shocking decision that involves a German woman named Gerte, can the family find new meaning in what makes a home?

Director Tasia A . Jones says. “We may find ourselves scrounging for crumbs from the table of joy, as we search for something to help us get from one day to the next. As we watch the Crumps wrestle with many questions of identity, love, faith, and belonging, I hope we can let the theatre be a sanctuary. I hope it can be a place for us to find our own answers to our deepest questions. I hope we can let it be a sacred space to feel whatever we need to feel, and I hope it can also be a space for us to forget if that’s what we need right now.”

Jacques Fleury is a Boston Globe featured Haitian American Poet, Educator, Author of four books and a literary arts student at Harvard University online. His latest publication “You Are Enough: The Journey to Accepting Your Authentic Self”  & other titles are available at all Boston Public Libraries, the University of Massachusetts Healey Library, University of  Wyoming, Askews and Holts Library Services in the United Kingdom, The Harvard Book Store, The Grolier Poetry Bookshop, Amazon etc…  He has been published in prestigious publications such as Wilderness House Literary Review, Muddy River Poetry Review, Litterateur Redefining World anthologies out of India, Poets Reading the News, the Cornell University Press anthology Class Lives: Stories from Our Economic Divide, Boston Area Small Press and Poetry Scene among others…Visit him at:  http://www.authorsden.com/jacquesfleury.

CONSTITUTIONAL DUTY AS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF A LEGAL STATE

KONSTITUTSIYAVIY BURCH HUQUQIY DAVLAT VA FUQAROLIK JAMIYATINI RIVOJLANTIRISHNING MUHIM OMILI SIFATIDA

КОНСТИТУЦИОННЫЙ ДОЛГ КАК ВАЖНЫЙ ФАКТОР РАЗВИТИЯ ПРАВОВОГО ГОСУДАРСТВА И ГРАЖДАНСКОГО ОБЩЕСТВА

Annotation: This article explores the role of constitutional duty as a significant factor in fostering the development of a legal state and civil society. The introduction defines key concepts and highlights the necessity of understanding constitutional obligations within the context of societal progress. The methods section elaborates on comparative legal analysis and interdisciplinary approaches utilized to examine the subject. Results indicate that constitutional duties significantly influence the formation of democratic institutions, the rule of law, and active citizenship. The discussion emphasizes the interconnection between individual responsibility and societal stability, proposing actionable recommendations for enhancing constitutional awareness. The conclusion underscores the importance of embedding constitutional education in public and professional spheres. This research contributes to legal studies and policy-making by providing insights into the integration of constitutional principles in civic life.

Key words: Constitutional duty, legal state, civil society, democratic institutions, active citizenship

Annotatsiya: Mazkur maqola konstitutsiyaviy burchning huquqiy davlat va fuqarolik jamiyatini rivojlantirishdagi muhim omil sifatida o‘rnini o‘rganishga bag‘ishlangan. Kirish qismida asosiy tushunchalar aniqlanib, jamiyat taraqqiyotida konstitutsiyaviy burchlarning ahamiyati yoritiladi. Metodlar bo‘limida mavzuni tadqiq qilishda qo‘llanilgan huquqiy taqqoslash va fanlararo yondashuvlar tushuntiriladi. Natijalar shuni ko‘rsatadiki, konstitutsiyaviy burchlar demokratik institutlar, qonun ustuvorligi va faol fuqarolik shakllanishiga katta ta’sir ko‘rsatadi. Muhokamada shaxsiy mas’uliyat va jamiyat barqarorligi o‘rtasidagi uzviy bog‘liqlik ta’kidlanib, konstitutsiyaviy ongni rivojlantirish bo‘yicha tavsiyalar beriladi. Xulosa qismida konstitutsiyaviy ta’limni jamoatchilik va kasbiy sohalarga joriy etish zarurligi qayd etilgan. Ushbu tadqiqot huquqshunoslik va davlat siyosatini shakllantirishga oid yangi qarashlarni taklif etadi.

Kalit so‘zlar: Konstitutsiyaviy burch, huquqiy davlat, fuqarolik jamiyati, demokratik institutlar, faol fuqarolik

Аннотация: В данной статье рассматривается роль конституционного долга как важного фактора развития правового государства и гражданского общества. Введение включает определение ключевых понятий и подчеркивает необходимость осознания конституционных обязанностей в контексте общественного прогресса. В разделе методов описываются сравнительно-правовой анализ и междисциплинарные подходы, применяемые для исследования темы. Результаты показывают, что конституционные обязанности оказывают значительное влияние на формирование демократических институтов, верховенства права и активного гражданства. В обсуждении подчеркивается взаимосвязь между индивидуальной ответственностью и стабильностью общества, а также даются практические рекомендации по повышению конституционного сознания. Заключение акцентирует внимание на важности внедрения конституционного образования в общественную и профессиональную сферы. Исследование вносит вклад в юриспруденцию и разработку государственной политики, предлагая новые перспективы интеграции конституционных принципов в общественную жизнь.

Ключевые слова: Конституционный долг, правовое государство, гражданское общество, демократические институты, активное гражданство

A constitution is the supreme law of a state, laying the groundwork for its governance, legal framework, and the relationship between the government and its citizens. Within this framework, constitutional duties hold a significant position, representing the obligations every citizen owes to their state and society. These duties are not merely legal mandates but also moral imperatives that shape societal harmony, uphold the rule of law, and strengthen democratic governance.

The concept of constitutional duty transcends individual responsibilities, acting as a unifying force that binds citizens to their shared values and collective goals. In democratic societies, fulfilling constitutional duties ensures not only the stability of the state but also the advancement of civil liberties and social justice. However, despite its importance, constitutional duty often remains overlooked in public discourse, overshadowed by a focus on rights rather than responsibilities.

In a rapidly evolving global landscape, where the principles of governance face new challenges, constitutional duties offer a pathway to balance individual freedoms with societal needs. By fostering accountability, active citizenship, and respect for laws, these duties contribute to the resilience of legal states and the vitality of civil societies.

This article delves into the multifaceted role of constitutional duties, analyzing their legal and moral dimensions, their influence on state-building, and their capacity to empower citizens as active participants in democratic processes. Through a comprehensive exploration of these themes, the article aims to shed light on how constitutional duties can serve as a cornerstone for achieving sustainable governance and societal progress.

Constitutional duty serves as a bridge between individual behavior and collective societal needs, making it a cornerstone of both governance and civic life. The significance of these duties lies in their dual capacity to enforce legal compliance and inspire moral commitment. This duality ensures that constitutional duty not only preserves order but also cultivates a shared sense of purpose among citizens.

Legal dimension of Constitutional duties

From a legal standpoint, constitutional duties are obligations mandated by the state to maintain its stability and promote the welfare of society. These duties encompass a range of responsibilities, including:

1. Adherence to laws: Respecting and following the law is fundamental for maintaining public order and safeguarding the rights of all citizens.
2. Payment of taxes: Taxes provide the financial backbone for state functions, enabling the development of infrastructure, public services, and national defense.
3. Military or Civil service: Contributing to national security or public welfare reinforces the collective strength of a nation.

Failure to uphold these duties can lead to legal consequences, but more importantly, it weakens the social contract between the state and its citizens, eroding trust in public institutions.

Moral dimension of Constitutional duties

Beyond legal obligations, constitutional duty reflects the moral relationship between individuals and their society. It underscores the importance of:

1. Patriotism: A commitment to one’s nation, expressed through active participation in its development and defense.
2. Civic engagement: Involvement in democratic processes, such as voting, advocating for justice, and participating in community initiatives.
3. Social Responsibility: Recognizing and addressing societal issues, such as inequality and environmental degradation, as collective challenges.

These moral obligations foster unity, social cohesion, and a sense of belonging, which are essential for the long-term stability and prosperity of any state.

Impact on State and Society development

The fulfillment of constitutional duties plays a crucial role in the evolution of a legal state and civil society.

1. Strengthening Democratic institutions: When citizens actively engage with their duties, they reinforce democratic governance and the legitimacy of public institutions.
2. Promoting Rule of Law: Constitutional duties ensure that laws are respected and applied uniformly, creating a fair and just society.
3. Encouraging Active Citizenship: By participating in civic duties, citizens become agents of change, addressing societal challenges and contributing to progress.

Conversely, neglecting these duties can result in political apathy, social fragmentation, and weakened governance structures.

Challenges and Recommendations

Despite their importance, constitutional duties are often underappreciated or misunderstood. Several challenges hinder their implementation, including:

1. Lack of Awareness: Many citizens are unaware of their constitutional obligations and their significance.
2. Mistrust in Institutions: Corruption and inefficiency in governance discourage citizens from fulfilling their duties.
3. Focus on Rights Over Responsibilities: Public discourse often prioritizes individual rights, sidelining the equal importance of responsibilities.

To address these issues, the following measures are recommended:

1. Constitutional Education: Integrating lessons on constitutional duties into school curricula to build awareness from a young age.
2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Promoting the importance of these duties through media, community programs, and public events.
3. Institutional Reform: Enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance to rebuild trust in public institutions.

By fostering a culture that values constitutional duties, societies can achieve a balance between individual freedoms and collective well-being, ensuring sustainable development and resilience in the face of modern challenges.

In conclusion, Constitutional duties are integral to the foundation of a legal state and the advancement of civil society. They provide a framework for balancing individual rights with societal responsibilities, fostering social harmony, and strengthening the democratic fabric of a nation. These duties, encompassing both legal obligations and moral commitments, encourage active citizenship and collective accountability, essential for sustainable development and governance. Ultimately, a society that values and upholds constitutional duties creates a resilient and progressive nation, where citizens actively contribute to the prosperity of their state and the well-being of future generations.

REFERENCES:

1. Ergashev, M. “Huquqshunoslik asoslari.” Toshkent: O‘qituvchi, 2020. – 41-bet.
2. Jumaev, Sh. “Fuqarolik huquqi va burchlar.” Toshkent: LexPress, 2017. – 52-bet.
3. Karimov I.A. “O‘zbekistonning o‘ziga xos taraqqiyot yo‘li.” Toshkent: O‘zbekiston, 2015. – 35-bet.
4. Nazarov, Q. “Fuqarolik jamiyati: nazariya va amaliyot.” Toshkent: Adolat, 2019. – 78-bet.
5. O‘zbekiston Respublikasining Konstitutsiyasi. Toshkent: O‘zbekiston, 2021. – 5-bet.
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7. Soliyev S.S. “Huquqbuzarliklar profilaktikasi.” Darslik. T.: Fan, 2023. – 22-bet.
8. Xo‘jaev, A. “Demokratik jamiyatda huquqiy burchlar.” Toshkent: Akademnashr, 2018. – 60-bet.

Life’s Journey

Life is a journey, a winding road,

With lightened loads and heavy loads.

It brings us joy, it brings us pain,

Like sunshine bright, then gentle rain.

Each day’s a gift, a chance to grow,

Through highs and lows, we come to know.

With love and hope, we make our way,

And cherish life, come what may.

Wazed Abdullah is a student of grade 10 in Harimohan Government High School, Chapainawabganj, Bangladesh.