<p>We discuss the pressing themes of humanism and empathy as we prepare for the American Empathy Project, an initiative aimed at combating the widespread cruelty currently proliferating across our nation. We discuss how this project, set to launch on May 2nd, provides a platform for community service projects funded through $100,000 in grants by the American Humanist Association. These projects embody the essence of compassion and collective action in the face of adversity.</p><p><br></p><p>In more positive news, Virginia&#39;s recent legislation aimed at dismantling historical racial injustices by eliminating taxpayer subsidies for Confederate organizations reflects a broader movement towards acknowledging and rectifying past discriminations.</p><p><br></p><p>Finally we look at the recent fight President Trump started with Pope Leo over the latter&#39;s criticism of the stupid &quot;war&quot; the US is waging against Iran. We look at the backlash faced by Pope Leo in response to his criticisms of the Trump administration and the broader implications this has for the Catholic community, especially as it relates to empathy in political discourse. Trump needs catholic voters more than they need him.</p><p><a href="https://glasscityhumanist.show/2026/americas-empathy-deficit-and-trump-vs-the-pope/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer"><strong>Full Show Notes &amp; Links Used</strong></a></p><p><a href="https://glasscityhumanist.show/email2u" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer"><strong>Subscribe to our free newsletter</strong></a></p><p><a href="https://bit.ly/glasscityshop" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer"><strong>Check out our Merch</strong></a></p>