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Coronavirus conversations: US schools reopen amid protests

With schools in then United States reopening, we speak to parents across the country

In the United States schools are reopening but opinion remains divided as to whether it is safe for children to return. In Arizona a public school district has been forced to cancel plans to restart in-person classes, after more than 100 teachers called in sick to protest unsafe working conditions during the coronavirus pandemic. We speak to a teacher in Arizona who took part in the 'sickout' protests; as well as hearing from parents across the country.

And the anger and protests grow in Belarus after the re-election last week of President Lukashenko. Today, a general strike is taking place. Staff at the state TV joined in, showing an empty sofa and newsroom, while playing music rather than usual news broadcast. We hear from those choosing to strike, including staff at the state TV - in a country where previously such action was likely to have been met with a violent response.

Also we take a look ahead to the Democratic National Convention which begins today in the US in its virtual, coronavirus restriction format. And we hear the thoughts of young Democrats across the country. What do they make of the Biden – Harris ticket?

(Photo: Teachers protesting against reopening of schools in Indiana, 28th July 2020. Credit: T. Jeremy Hogan/Getty Images)

53 minutes

Broadcast

  • Mon 17 Aug 2020 16:06GMT

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