There are a number of recent American trends that you should be aware of, such as the rise in popularity of international travel and the increasing number of people choosing to live a more sustainable lifestyle. The latest edition of the Trending Topics Report is here! This report analyzes the most talked-about topics on Facebook in the United States over a one-week period.
NFL National Anthem Protest
The NFL National Anthem Protest has been a trending topic of discussion throughout the United States in recent weeks. The protests began when San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick refused to stand for the National Anthem in the revolt against police brutality and racial inequality.
Since starting the protest, other players have joined in, with some kneeling and some standing. There has been much conversation about this issue, with people on both sides of the aisle weighing in. Some people feel that these protests are disrespectful, while others believe that they are a way to bring attention to important issues.
Protests against the current government are continuing, but it is unclear how long they will last.
White House Correspondents Dinner
It is nearly a year since the White House Correspondents Dinner was last held. Held annually since 1921, the event is one of Washington’s most anticipated events. This year’s dinner was no exception as journalists, politicians, and celebrities alike came together to share laughs and stories.
The evening began with comedian Hasan Minhaj taking the stage to talk about his experiences as a Muslim American in America. He then welcomed President Donald Trump, who gave a brief speech before heading off stage. Other notable attendees included first lady Melania Trump, former President Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and Jared Kushner, among many others.
The night ended with singer James Corden’s performance, bringing the house down with his hilarious stories and jokes. Overall, it was an entertaining night that showcased many of Washington’s top personalities.
Charlottesville Rally Violence
Over the weekend, the violence that erupted during a white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, has reignited the nationwide debate on race and hate.
The Unite the Right rally was organized to protest the dumping of Confederate General Robert E.Lee’s sculpture from a public park. However, clashes erupted between white nationalists and counter-protesters soon after it began.
At least one person was killed and dozens more were injured when a car drove into a group of protesters. The driver of the car has been identified as 20-year-old James Alex Fields Jr, from Ohio.
Las Vegas Shooting
We are writing to report another mass shooting in the United States with heavy hearts. On October 1, 2017, a gunslinger opened fire on a crowd of country music fans at the Route 91 Harvest Celebration in Las Vegas, Nevada. The death toll from this attack has now reached 58 people, making it the deadliest mass shooting in US history.
The Route 91 Harvest Carnival was held on an open-air stage across from the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, just minutes from where another mass shooting occurred just weeks earlier. Unfortunately, it is clear that gun violence is becoming an all too familiar reality for Americans and our loved ones here at home. We urge our leaders to act to prevent further tragedies like these and make meaningful progress on gun reform legislation.
There was no lack of hot topics in 2017, so it’s no surprise that many made the cut for this year’s report. We hope you enjoy reading about the top news trending of the past year!