How Did I Miss This?

Okay, I'm in the middle of combing through documents and an audio tape about the "Groundswell" group, recently brought to light by Mother Jones.  Sadly, I don't have the discipline to wait to share what I'm learning.  http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2013/07/groundswell-secret-tape-boehner-issa-benghazi   There's information on the linked page to connect you to all the memos, other posts, etc.  that show an intentional, carefully orchestrated effort to manufacture "scandals" designed to hurt the Obama Administration. 

 

 Remember the media talking about that "bad week" the President and his administration had not too long ago?  Benghazi, the IRS "targeting"Tea Party groups, etc.  All that mayhem was planned and played out, apparently by this Groundwell group of right wing extremists.  Its members have been outed in articles and an audio-taped meeting.  Ginni Thomas, anti-Obamacare crusader and wife of Justice Clarence Thomas— who didn't have the personal ethics to recuse himself from deliberations on the Affordable Health Care Act and of course voted with dissenters— is actively involved with Groundswell and was present at the meeting you can hear at Crooks and Liars.  http://crooksandliars.com/karoli/groundswell-group-plotted-scandals-congress.   

 

The Groundswellers also are interested in voter suppression efforts and using a number of issues to create potential scandals.  Their talking points can be heard on the floors of the House and Senate as well as in right-wing media.  This stuff has the makings of a blockbuster movie—and from my point of view, and I would imagine yours, it would be promoted as a horror story. 

 

The story broke when I was away,  without cable and little time for the internet; so I totally missed it.  Apparently it was dismissed as "no big deal" at the time, but I would say it's a big deal, possibly containing a multitude of big deals within it.  Like those nesting dolls.  And no one had to manufacture this; it's happening and now out there for all to see and hear.   That is, if "all" are willing to see and recognize how much negative influence this group has had, and continues to have, in the sorry socio-political realities of our country.  Times are hard enough in our world without a well-connected group of hard-driven extremists determined to make things worse.  The Groundswell story is one of those "tip of the iceberg" revelations, something I believe merits our continued attention.  And the attention of the media.

 

Kudos to David Corn and Mother Jones as well as Crooks and Liars for their reporting on Groundswell.  It's heartening to see serious investigative journalism—which has not been much in evidence for a while now.  Keep up the good work, and we'll help get the word out.

Can't Survive on $7.25

[Adding Note on Augsut 2, 2013:  Over at Think Progress there's a good article further demonstrating the intention of Republicans to shrink government until it becomes invisible.  Now GOP senators have introduced a bill prohibiting any new law that would help workers.  You might want to check it out:  http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2013/08/02/2404301/36-senators-introduce-bill-prohibiting-virtually-any-new-federal-law-helping-workers/]

                                                                       * * * * * * *

  You know what more and more school teachers and office managers are saying these days?  "Would you like fries with that?"  Yes, many out-of-work Americans of all ages and walks of life have taken the only jobs they could find—in the fast food industry.  That the workers behind the drive-thru windows are not  all "kids," is a myth-buster, mostly for Republican lawmakers.   Maybe they need to convince themselves that's the case in order to attempt freezing or cutting minimum wage—even as they fight to lower taxes on the wealthiest people in the Country.   Soulless creatures,  those who would advocate for either of those positions.   They believe the current  hourly wage, $7.25, is adequate for the "kids" or "students."  No, it's not adequate for anyone, even those who aren't trying to support a family on that pittance—by working two jobs.  

 

On July 29 fast food workers executed a one-day strike for higher wages, an end to abusive labor practices and the right to organize in a union.  In cities around the country—like Detroit, Chicago, New York —strikers and demonstrators supporting them were chanting, "We can't survive on $7.25."  Of course they can't! 

 

(Image from Fire Mitch McConnell 2014/Facebook)

 

  Think about it:  The CEO's of these chains are likely making that much per second, while they continue to reduce payrolls.  They do that by requiring remaining workers to cover two or three jobs for the same low wage, as they labor under increasingly stressful conditions.  And it's not just the fast food industry engaging in this practice of reducing the work force and leaving those who remain too"job scared"to complain.   So job-scared they dare not balk at the superhuman tasks they must complete by the end of their shift.   

 

I know someone who has an excellent reputation in his chosen profession.  This is someone earning a decent salary with benefits.  He had worked for the same company for 20 years before it was absorbed by a large corporation several years ago.  He suffered as his co-worker friends were let go, one by one, for no reason other than it meant more money for the shareholders.  This torture continued for a year or more.  Ultimately he remained and was given the job his boss had; this "promotion" gave him no joy.  This man has a family and still likes the work he does. He has been, and continues to be, a tremendous asset to the corporation.   But the work environment is no longer the same.   Now, instead of working 8 hours, there are many days he's working 12 hours.  He's literally doing the work of 3 or 4 people.  And it's taking a toll.  The worst effects of stress aren't obvious in the short term.  They usually don't manifest in disease right away.  But it's been hard on the worker and family life has suffered from the git-go. 

 

So, I'm more than a little jaded about most of corporate America.  Sick of the greed.  The lack of caring about the employees who help make the business successful.  Instead of being appreciated, they're simply used until they're all used up.   Or until they begin to make "too much" money, in which case they're let go and someone new is hired later for less money.  Apparently that's part of the formula for today's corporate "success"—with record-breaking profits. 

 

If you call me a Socialist today,  I'm likely to write you a thank-you note.  That is, after I'm done praising the workers who walked out on their thankless jobs for one day.   They're right:  They can't survive on $7.25.  I'm glad our President is in sync and speaking up for workers.

Good News, Bad News

It’s good to know that the sexploitation of girls hasn’t gone under the FBI’s radar, as evidenced by yesterday’s bulletin announcing “Operation Cross Country 7.”  In a three-day raid sweeping across 60 cities, 150 pimps were arrested.  The girls rescued, ages 13-17, numbered 105. 

 

Of course the bad news is that these and too many other children are being trafficked every day through the internet, casinos, sporting events and on the streets.  They’re often moved from city to city in conjunction with major sporting events like the Super Bowl and the Final Four.  I wonder how many who pay for sex with these children don’t notice they must be under age.  It’s probable that even a short time as a child prostitute would age a girl fast; however, it’s hard to imagine that the majority wouldn’t be obviously underage.  Some men with children and grandchildren the ages of these girls were likely recipients of their “services.”  It speaks volumes about the state of our culture.  You could say it’s a matter of morals.  It’s also clear to me that we have an empathy deficiency in epidemic proportions in this country. 

 

We (“we” generally speaking, referencing popular culture) devour news, are inundated with information. We stake out our positions on this and that, and go from there.  How often do we pause to wonder how a tragedy happened?  I mean before she shot him, before the father left his child to suffocate in a hot car, before the girl was recruited into prostitution?   How often do we go deeper to learn, or at least imagine, the story behind a story?  And, importantly, have we lost our ability, and the desire, to put ourselves in another person’s shoes?   I think the answer is “yes”— and there’s the empathy deficiency.  We’re losing our ability to feel our own feelings, much less put ourselves in a position to imagine the feelings and lives of others. 

 

Our culture has failed too many of these girls, girls with little sense of self-worth; they're the ones preyed upon by those seeking to exploit them.  Many of the girls come from abusive or seriously dysfunctional home environments; some are runaways, some homeless.  It’s hard to accept that we stand by, not noticing these girls in our midst.  And yet how can we know?  How can we know? 

 

Maybe we could decide to become more aware of the girls who cross our paths.  Notice those who seem less than confident, who seem to be suffering from poverty or who show the signs of abuse.  Yes, maybe we could wake up and make an effort to notice.  And then extend ourselves enough to get to know those girls, one at a time.  Or we could volunteer to mentor at-risk girls through programs sponsored by various nonprofit organizations.  It seems daunting, but that’s when it’s most important not to walk away, isn’t it?    I’m at a loss at the moment, except for remembering that awareness is key to this tragic issue and to nearly everything, isn’t it?  Just paying attention to what’s going on in the world around us. Down the street. Across town.  At the park. With our kids’ or grandchildren’s friends.  Being willing to see what we see and do something.  Some thing.

 

It’s good to know that 105 girls will be getting help through the Office of Victim Assistance and hopefully good support systems will be available to them.  They have a lot to overcome.  A  whole lot of healing to do. 

Loving This Pope

Pope Francis on Monday continued to recast the Catholic Church’s image by focusing on its inviting, merciful aspects, this time shocking a planeload of reporters by saying of homosexuality: “Who am I to judge?”

 

“If they accept the Lord and have goodwill, who am I to judge them?” the leader of the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics said in a remarkably candid and off-the-cuff news conference en route to Rome from Brazil. “They shouldn’t be marginalized.”   -  The Washington Post - On Faith

 

See the rest of this article:  http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/in-first-press-conference-pope-francis-calls-for-inclusion-of-gays-in-society-saying-he-has-no-right-to-judge/2013/07/29/0d26789e-f87e-11e2-b018-5b8251f0c56e_story.html

 

As the head of an institution known through the ages for its pomp and circumstance, Pope Francis seems to tolerate, rather than relish, the pomp.  And, clearly, his heart is aligned with the circumstances of impoverished people around the world.  I'm now fully convinced this Pope is the embodiment of humility and authenticity—a nugget of good news I'm embracing today!  

 

The Pope's simple but profound words about homosexuality are worth celebrating.  As is Pope Francis, the man.   He carries his briefcase because he sees himself as a person who's simply serving as Pope.  A person rather than an icon.  It was refreshing to hear a reporter on that plane from Brazil to Rome so obviously excited and amazed by the Pope coming to visit with reporters.  Apparently he answered questions, "did not dodge" or refuse to answer any, and was forthright and relaxed in answering.  He had no notes.  Pope Francis is comfortable with media because he's comfortable with himself.  He is who he is—and he allowed those reporters, and is letting all of us, see him.  He was relating to them from his personhood rather than from his powerful position as Pope.  He seems to have done the work of minimizing the ego much as the great Buddhist teachers do.

 

Some of our political and business leaders would do well to learn from this humble servant.  I won't ruin my happy buzz by speculating on whether the Pope's attitude will change any of the Church's official positions on homosexuality; however,  our Catholic gay and lesbian brothers and sisters are bound to feel more a part of their Church.  And that's a good thing. 

Cognitive Dissonance

Thanks to my friend Kate for sharing and to the Pink Progressives page on Facebook for these excellent examples!   Forgive the overlap--necessary for reading (most of it)!

Welcome. Consider Yourself Celebrated!

Good idea beautifully illustrated to brighten a cloudy Sunday morning.   

 

(Artist Robin Meade Begin Within, shared on Facebook)

Where's the Money?

(Posted on The National Memo page and shared by Facebook friends)

Saturday Eye Catchers

Justice Ginsburg is not happy to be right; that is, about the prediction included in her scathing dissent when the Court scrapped a key provision of the Voting Rights Act.  Here's a short take at Think Progress:

http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2013/07/26/2361221/justice-ginsburg-reacts-to-epidemic-of-voter-suppression-laws-told-ya-so/

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Think, America.  It's not illegal now, but no guarantees . . . .

From Americans Against the Republican Party, posted on Being Liberal's Fan Page/Facebook.

Hodgepodge Friday

And Ms. Stein wasn't even exposed to 24/7 cable news, the internet and social media, right?  Seeing this makes me glad that I've managed to hang onto common sense in the face of the deluge—the daily mix of significant, outrageous, silly, useless, meaningful, annoying and critical information.

This morning my mind is buzzing with so many topics, and there's too little morning time to touch on them all.  So much craziness out there.    

 

For starters, you know North Dakota passed radically restrictive legislation affecting women's reproductive rights,  after which a Federal judge called a halt to the new law (no surprise).   Now the North Dakota state fair is giving away—are you ready?—fetus dolls as prizes.  Could it get any sicker?  I shouldn't ask.

 

Then I stumbled on one writer's take on why the US is the most violent first-world country.   Interesting and it led to my head shaking and my stomach clutching a time or two.  

http://thebigslice.org/spanking-babies-for-god-why-america-is-the-most-violent-first-world-country/

 

  The latest in racism from the Tea Party wing of the imploding Republican Party, Louie Gohmert over at Addicting Information:

http://www.addictinginfo.org/2013/07/25/tea-party-racist-louie-gohmert-civil-rights-insect-lizards/

After that disturbing batch of info, I'm glad to see Moms Demand Action is working hard to change gun laws.  If you care about this issue—and I know you do— check out Moms Demand Action and hopefully become a part of it.  There are ways to overpower the NRA and I believe "Moms" will be one of the ways.  I still think all the anti-gun-violence advocacy groups need to gather forces, pool their resources and use them in more powerfully focused ways.  Moms Demand Action could be the vehicle for doing that?   Here's the link to find out how you can be part of this movement:

http://momsdemandaction.org/

Best news of the morning:  It's Friday and my 8-year-old Bliss Bringer is home from two nights in the hospital and a long, but successful, surgery on a broken arm.  Her left arm.  She's a brave Leftie in every sense of the word.  And quite the softball player.   Hopefully by next season, she'll be back on the field.

Have a fine weekend, all.

Forget Tolerance

 

(Image from DemocraticUnderground.com via Maddow Fan Page/Facebook)

How do I distrust thee?  Let me count the ways  (Sorry, Ms. Dickenson).  This is typical.  Are you as weary of this man and his Party as I am? 

In "The Carolinas"

(from Living Blue in North Carolina/Facebook - Thanks for this great image, Neighbors.)

 

Our North Carolina neighbors have been gathering  in impressive numbers for "Moral Mondays" at the statehouse in Raleigh.   They're protesting ghastly laws recently hatched by Republicans.  Since Republicans took over the governorship and the legislature for the first time in over a hundred years, they've bullied some devastating bills into law.  Devastating especially to the working poor and the most fragile citizens of the state.  They rejected the expansion of Medicaid, cut unemployment benefits and introduced legislation to alter voting laws.  They've also been busy trying to roll back women's rights.  In addition to all that, Governor Pat McCrory just handed a sweet gift to the Tea Party constituency by announcing a reduction in corporate and personal income taxes.  No wonder liberals and progressives are rising up and risking arrest.  I read yesterday that about 900 peaceful protesters have been arrested since the current legislative session began.

 

The Moral Mondays protest is inspiring.   It's one aspect of the state's political landscape that even the vast wealth of Republican Tareel Art Pope can't buy.   In other words, it's priceless.

 

While our neighbors are rising up, South Carolinians (and that includes me) have been sadly passive as we drift along in the same leaky boat.  We've had the voter suppression laws ("voter ID" and no actual voter fraud to warrant it), horrific new gun legislation, bills to put women "in our place"via restricting reproductive options, and ohhh so many more.   Our state's Republican legislative takeover happened long enough ago, so it's now the not-so-new normal.  And we've had Republican governors for too long.  Y'all remember Mark Sanford, right?  And then we got Nikki Haley,  a Tea Party sweetheart supported by Sarah Palin herself.   That says enough, but there's a whole lot more.

 

With all the gun violence in this country—tragedies that should crack the coldest of hearts—our Governor visited a gun factory that's operated in South Carolina for a decade or so.  She took time for photo ops, apparently enjoyed handling a big gun.   Yesterday my Facebook feed was littered with pictures like this,  our Governor with what looks like a weapon  capable of mass destruction.   I'll spare you a comment on the comments.  Geeez.

 

(Photo posted on Facebook.)

 

So, with the overwhelming problems facing our state and the humans who live in it, she's out  showing the NRA she's worthy of big support?    Who knows why else she'd opt to do such an inappropriate, insensitive thing.   This is but one of too many reasons to work hard for a strong Democratic gubernatorial candidate next year.  Keywords:  work hard—because it will take a lot of that along with a near miracle to get a Democrat in the Governor's office.  I once heard this in a meditation group:  "There is no order of difficulty in miracles."  Comforting thought, but we still need to work!

 

Seems we complacent Sandlappers could take a cue from the Moral Mondays activists and do some protesting of our own.   A great crowd did assemble at our statehouse on Saturday to honor Trayvon Martin's life and protest the "stand your ground" laws.  The crowd was estimated at between 5,000 and 7,500.  Not too shabby.  I know some dedicated activists who drove to Columbia and were glad to be part of such an uplifting experience.  Maybe it will motivate us to protest on a regular basis when our lawmakers come back in January.

Living Out Loud

Emile Zola:  "If you asked me what I came into this world to do, I will tell you:  I came to live out loud."  [from a greeting card I made the centerpiece of a mixed media piece, then framed and placed it on a wall as a daily reminder.]

 

Many of us have been encouraged not to live out loud.  Not to speak up.  Not to make waves.  Or rock the boat.   Things just work out better if we don't speak up—better for other people, that is.  Better for the status quo if we don't think and question and attempt to untangle the complexities:  Justice.  Ethics.  Democracy.  Spirituality.  Violence.  Empathy.  Hunger.  Poverty.  Love.  Fear.  Hope.  Suffering.  War.  Sustainability.  Economics.  Greed.  Equality.  Trust.

 

Sometimes I envy people who see the world as black or white, good or evil.  The people who believe what they believe, "Don't confuse me with facts." Their blinders aren't uncomfortable at all; they'd rather not look around.  

 

Acknowledging complexity and attempting to understand is a harder way to go.  But I wouldn't trade places—even with the restless nights.   Even those times when all the air goes out of my "hope" balloon.   I want to live up to the accusation I've heard too many times: "You just think too much."  My response has been If more people would think a little, or at all, I might not need to think so much.

 

This is one of those times in history when it's critical for all of us to live out loud.  To think, to speak our truth and act on it.  However we can.  Fearless minds and willing hearts are badly needed now.   There are "Help Wanted" signs hanging on too many sad situations in our culture for silence to rule the day. 

 

Today I will seek out and reach out and give my best effort to making one thing better—or one person feel better—because I made the decision to live out loud.   Coming with me?

 

 

Yep.

(from the Rachel Maddow Fan Page/Facebook, via Politically Preposterous - Thanks for sharing!)

Focus, Focus!

When I consider all the circumstances, policies, biases, and laws begging for transformation, I'm totally overwhelmed.  There's no way any one person can contribute to "fixing" all the broken places and righting all the wrongs.  It's impossible even to keep an eye on all the emerging crises waiting their turn in the 24/7 news cycle.  Still, there's always a strong pull to make all things "better."  And the minute I consider narrowing my focus, a bright, shiny cause will capture my attention.

 

Just yesterday Malcolm Gladwell (NY Times, author of "Blink" and "The Outliers") was on Fareed Zakaria's GPS,  advocating the elimination of a sport that "destroys the human brain."  That sport is college football.  Although I won't be taking up space on Mr. Gladwell's soapbox, he did make a compelling case for doing away with this "anachronism."  He pointed out the irony of a serious academic institution—whose purpose is to develop and enrich the human brain—sponsoring an activity that can, and sometimes does, destroy the human brain.

 

You might have read more than I have about the degenerative brain disorder known as CTE.  I didn't realize the condition can be diagnosed with certainty only in autopsies.  Talk about too late.  Nevertheless, strong indications of its existence can be seen in former football players (some in their 40's)  as they exhibit symptoms similar to Alzheimers.    

 

Gladwell talked about a University of Pennsylvania football captain who committed suicide by hanging himself in his dorm room.  He had shown no signs of depression; however, the autopsy revealed that his brain, with CTE,  looked like that of an 80-year-old with Alzheimers.

 

So, Malcolm Gladwell's thoughts on effecting change are (a) for students to boycott games and, I believe, to demonstrate at the stadiums, and (b) for donors to be convinced to discontinue supporting schools with football programs.

 

It was fascinating to watch Gladwell's own brain working at top speed as he talked about CTE.  Very persuasive.  To me.  But in this culture—are you kidding?   Best to get new gun safety laws in place first.  

 

Meandering into this subject I said that I can't embrace every cause and help right all the wrongs.  So, I do intend to narrow my focus a bit at this point.  The causes I'm most passionate about are big, individually and collectively.  And they're interconnected and overlapping in some cases.  Other issues will be on my radar screen, and I will do what I can when I can to keep up.  But most of all I will focus on voting rights, women's rights, and gun laws including repeal of "stand your ground." Not least, I want to promote openness— and listening to one another—as we move toward better interracial understanding.   

 

That's a lot to chew on this muggy Monday morning. 

Sunday Morning Thoughts

http://www.addictinginfo.org/2013/07/20/christian-nation/

I cringe hearing someone say the United States of America is" a Christian nation."  It's not.  It's a free nation, offering people of any and all religions the freedom to worship as they wish.  That same freedom extends to those who choose to opt out of religious practices, as well.

 

Earlier this morning I enjoyed reading "The 12 Best Reasons Why the U. S. Is Not Now, and Never Should Be, a Christian Nation" at  Addicting Information.  A link is at the top of this post.  My favorite reason is # 9:

 

“What influence, in fact, have ecclesiastical establishments had on society? In some instances they have been seen to erect a spiritual tyranny on the ruins of the civil authority; on many instances they have been seen upholding the thrones of political tyranny; in no instance have they been the guardians of the liberties of the people… A just government, instituted to secure and perpetuate it, needs them not.” –James Madison, A Memorial and Remonstrance, 1785 
.

 

Outside my sanctuary, a young blue heron is fishing by the dam, an egret perches in a cypress tree, and turtles are poking their heads thorough the water's surface for a quick look-around.   I embrace Mother Nature's generosity and give thanks for many things—including our free nation.  

 

Wishing you all a peaceful Sunday morning.

A Whole New World

 

(Posted by Karia Nelson Lanken on Facebook.)

Whole. New. World.  Let it begin with me.

"Nothing About Abortion in the Bible"

Okay, I was going to devote writing time to a neglected wannabe book, but slow-boil anger is revising that plan.

 

I'm convinced the religious right's crusade against "woman power" is part of an effort to bring back an ancient teaching that women are inferior to men. (I know; you can stop laughing now.)  They seem determined to return women, as possessions, to the ownership of men.  To put us in  our place, as they see it, under the collective male thumb.  I'll bet that's at the core of the anti-choice laws coming out of conservative "think" tanks and Republican legislatures.   Laws to limit women's reproductive options are multiplying like rabbits on a full moon.  All over the country.  Never mind that they're unconstitutional.  The assorted architects of all this legislation are not conservative; they're radical male supremacists.  And the women who go along with them, who vote with them—?  Apparently the power of fear in religious mythology (or maybe the promise of a fluffier cloud to perch on in the afterlife) is persuasive enough for some women to take a pass on rational thinking.  Who can say with certainty?  Maybe they just don't mind being considered inferior— being property, like a boat or a shotgun.

 

Here's an Alternet post you'll want to see:   http://www.alternet.org/belief/theres-nothing-about-abortion-bible-so-how-do-right-wing-christians-justify-their-crusade

 

Some of these bills are being sneaked through on the coattails of unrelated legislation.  Bizarre, sure, but it happens a lot.  Other bills portend to be "saving lives" after a certain number of weeks.  Mostly I've seen the twenty-week cutoff (1% which are crisis pregnancies, as I understand it).  In reality that's only part of the story.  In Texas, the new law is causing the vast majority of women's clinics to shut down, leaving many women with zero to dangerous options.  But that's really the point, isn't it?

 

There's an excellent piece in Mother Jones on the four worst new anti-abortion laws, posted July 11 by Kate Sheppard and Dana Liebelson.   Check it out.  http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2013/07/abortion-texas-ohio-wisconsin-north-carolina

 

Here's where I'll repeat something I often say on this subject.  We're all pro life.  Even those of us who believe our bodies belong to us and we have the right to govern them—not some pot-bellied bubbas in state legislatures, Congress, or any damned where else for that matter.  We are so pro life that many of us oppose the death penalty and have been known to march against wars and work for gun safety reforms. Why do so many self-declared "pro life" advocates carry concealed weapons?  Do guns protect life?  If a person carries a gun, it's a declaration that they're willing and prepared to take another person's life.  Mercy.

 

The people writing and passing these restrictive laws don't care about "life"once an actual baby is born into this hardscrabble world.   The people who claim to be "pro life" should be called "pro-fetus."  They habitually vote against programs and policies designed to help infants and children of indigent parents make it in this country.  If they can't vote against starting a program to benefit children living in poverty, they cut existing programs to the marrow without so much as a twinge of conscience—then sit self-satisfied in church, praising Jesus and putting money in the collection plate on Sunday.  Jesus might never stop throwing up if he knew all the things being done, or not done, in his name.

 

And if the determined "pro-life" people truly cared about eliminating the need to terminate pregnancies, why do they oppose measures to limit pregnancies?  Why do they reject science-based sex education in schools?  Why are so many against birth control and family planning?  The Emperor who is the religious right has been told he's wearing no clothes; he just doesn't care. The religious right seems not in the least embarrassed when called out on inconsistencies, misinformation or outright lies.  They just keep on pushing, repeating the same talking points over and over.  How should a rational, intelligent opposition deal with those whose blatantly irrational behaviors make reasonable discourse impossible?  Seriously, I'm asking.  Leave your suggestion in a comment.

Health Insurance Marketplace

Health Insurance Marketplace opens October 1, but here are 3 things you can do to get ready today. Learn more at www.HealthCare.gov

Great Video on "Obamacare"

Re. "Obamacare":  With the Koch brothers funding ads to mislead the public, it's great to see this video correcting their most recent effort to stir up opposition.  Of course the House has introduced about 38 bills to repeal the Affordable Care Act— passed by both houses of Congress and ruled Constitutional by the United States Supreme Court.  Congress has nothing better to do than that—besides rolling women's health choices back half a century or so.  

(Priceless cartoon by Tom Toles speaks volumes.  Posted by admired activist friend Elizabeth on FB.  Thanks!)

 

Check out this video and share it—especially with those who might be influenced by the campaign to undermine implementation of "Obamacare."   Republicans fear this massive program for one reason.  They're afraid it will be successful, and they want nothing originating with President Obama or Congressional Democrats to succeed. 

 

Watch a pediatrician counter every false claim made on this totally misleading ad:

http://occupydemocrats.com/watch-a-doctor-destroy-a-koch-brother-funded-anti-obamacare-ad-in-2-minutes/

Minimum Wage, Nickle and Dimed

http://www.upworthy.com/the-reality-of-who-actually-works-for-minimum-wage-will-shock-you-5?c=bl3

Check this out at Upworthy to see a pie chart showing by age and gender who's actually working for minimum wage. 

On the subject of minimum wage, I'm remembering the impact Barbara Ehrenreich's book, Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting by in America, had on me when it was published in 2001. Ehrenreich went undercover "to investigate the impact of the 1996 wefare reform act on the working poor in the United States. . . . "

 

". . . She concludes with the argument that all low-wage workers, recipients of government or charitable services like welfare, food, and health care, are not simply living off the generosity of others. Instead, she suggests, we live off their generosity:

When someone works for less pay than she can live on ... she has made a great sacrifice for you .... The "working poor" ... are in fact the major philanthropists of our society. They neglect their own children so that the children of others will be cared for; they live in substandard housing so that other homes will be shiny and perfect; they endure privation so that inflation will be low and stock prices high. To be a member of the working poor is to be an anonymous donor, a nameless benefactor, to everyone. (p. 221)

The author concludes that someday, low-wage workers will rise up and demand to be treated fairly, and when that day comes everyone will be better off."  (Source:  Wikipedia)

 

Seems like a good time to read Nickled and Dimed again. 

Eliminating Overtime Pay?

(Image from The Rachel Maddow Fan Page/Facebook)

Yes, but Cantor and the Repubs work sooo hard at obstructing progress.  They're entitled to high pay and low production.  Not to mention giving their all to weaken the middle class and kick the poor when they're down.  The Republicans vote to subsidize wealthy corporate farmers and eliminate food stamps to help the hungry.  They're happy to fight for lower taxes for the top 1% of Americans (multi-millionaires and billionaires) while planning to eliminate overtime pay for the hourly worker missing time with the family or losing sleep to the get a job done. 

Beyond belief, these smug saboteurs of the American dream.   Something else to raise hell about, dear Lefties.

Why Two Standards of Justice?

http://www.truth-out.org/opinion/item/17637-why-were-trayvon-martin-and-george-zimmerman-held-to-two-different-standards-of-justice

Why were Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman held to different standards of justice?  The above link will take you to the answer at Truthout.  An important read.

Liz Cheney, Cowgirl

"O give me a home where the buffalo roam and the deer and the antelope play . . . ."  If you're Liz Cheney you could rewrite the lyrics, maybe to go something like this:  Out where I have heard some discouraging words, but I'm gonna to run here anyway.

 

It's official.  Liz Cheney, firstborn daughter of former VP Dick Cheney and his wife Lynne, is running for the U.S. Senate.  She announced her bid for the seat occupied by three-term Wyoming senator, Mike Enzi, longtime friend of the Cheney family.  The word awkward doesn't begin to describe the sticky wicket where many Republicans and various donors—friends of both Enzi and the Cheney family—will find themselves as 2014 approaches. Apparently Liz Cheney told Senator Enzi she wouldn't run if he planned to seek another term; he is seeking a fourth term, and she was aware of that when she announced. 

 

She said in her announcement that she's "a mother and a patriot."  While the word patriot is a subjective term, we know for sure she's a mother.   When it comes to spewing toxic vitriol,  she's second only to Ann Coulter—and each of them can get really creative with "facts" when sticking it to President Obama or any Democrat.

 

When asked about his reaction to her announcement, Enzi said "I thought she was my friend."  Pundits are predicting Liz Cheney's career move will cause quite a fissure in the Republican Party.  There are so many fissures in it now, I don't know how they can find a place to stand, even if they decided to take one—what with their alienation of the soon-to-be majority of American voters.  

 

A number of elected officials have launched careers by moving to a new state—usually a place where they have some ties.  Cheney's family is a part of Wyoming's history; however,  Liz Cheney has lived her adult life in Virginia with her husband and five children.  (She did attend Colorado College where her senior thesis was "The Evolution of Presidential War Powers.") The carpetbagger thing probably won't get Enzi a Primary win; however, her schoolyard-bully attitude and her abrasive manner of speaking—chalk scraping the blackboard—probably will not play well with Wyoming voters.  Neither will Cheney's saying that Enzi is too willing to compromise with those on the other side of the aisle.   I'm betting that most down-to-earth Wyoming residents carry some common sense under those cowboy and cowgirl hats.  We all know that Congress has a pathetically low approval rating, based in large part on members' unwillingness to "reach across the aisle" and compromise.  Which Enzi is being accused by Cheney of doing "too much."  That alone could be reason enough to hold onto that seat.  If I were Enzi,  I'd consider making it the theme of my campaign.  No doubt she will be well-financed.

 

One more thing:  The Wyoming home Cheney bought last year is in Jackson Hole, a high-end  habitat described as "posh"and brimming over with those "elitists" Republicans accuse Democrats of being.  Standing under the Wyoming sky in her denim shirt won't fool anybody into believing she's an unpretentious, down-to-earth gal.  In fact,  I think she'd be wise to leave most of her belongings at the home in Virginia. 

Redefining Marriage

 

                                          Posted on Newslo
                                          From; https://www.facebook.com/gbpotus

 

Somebody please tell me how marriage equality is a "threat" to the institution of marriage.  Seems to me it would a matter of changing a word or two in the law and in marriage ceremonies.  However, Senate mystic and marriage expert Rand Paul seems to think it could lead to humans marrying outside their own species.  "Sally, do you take Billy Goat to be your wedded husband?"  I imagine there would need to be compromises—on, say, dining arrangements.  

 

(Image from BelieveOutLoud.com, posted on Facebook)

 

 But seriously, can you believe some of the people who represent us in Congress?  Rather, people who don't represent us?  After we get background checks for firearm ownership, maybe we can get background checks for elected officials, mental health screening included.

From Here, Where?

There will be rallies in 100 or more cities across the USA this Saturday.  Some friends will be going to the Columbia, SC march—a walk from the State House to the Federal Courthouse.  This symbolic march toward justice honors the memory of Trayvon Martin and asks the Department of Justice for help in getting justice.   I can't be in Columbia, but my heart and mind will be in solidarity with the marchers. 

 

The killing of Trayvon Martin begs for change and lots of it.  For starters, how about repealing the "stand your ground"provision in self defense law in Florida and other states, including South Carolina?   Then there are the gun law changes we talked so passionately about after the Sandy Hook horror and all the other senseless deaths from gunfire since then.  Public passion for gun regulation did not translate into changing laws or regulations.  In fact, even a simple background check bill did not pass.  Time to bring that bill back and get it done—that bill and more.  Time to pool Bloomberg, Giffords, the Brady Group, and other organization resources to show the NRA leadership they can't keep winning this fight. 

 

Just when I begin to think I can exhale and find some peace, something triggers fresh outrage or exacerbates my grief.   After watching a replay of  CNN's interview with one juror in the Zimmerman trial,  I'm feeling more anger and frustration.  How can anyone believe race wasn't a factor here?  Is it possible to mandate diversity on juries? 

 

 I'm hoping this tragedy—and a system that didn't lead to "justice for all"— will lead us to explore the topic of race far more honestly, openly, and deeply than ever before.  Not solely through media commentary or social media.  This kind of change can't be a passive exercise, but rather something experiential.  Maybe one goal could be challenging all Americans to commit to the same intention:  Getting to know people whose race or ethic background is different.  A national movement.   Seriously, think about it. Any ideas on the subject? 

Note added 7/17/13:  Don't miss Eugene Robinson's excellent piece.  http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/eugene-robinson-black-boys-denied-the-right-to-be-young/2013/07/15/d3f603d8-ed69-11e2-9008-61e94a7ea20d_story.html?hpid=z2

 

I have been examining my own unacknowledged denial of how acute racism is today.   My friends and associates also are grieving the Zimmerman verdict.  They think and feel very much as I do.  They're Liberals or Progressives.  Only one friend is Independent politically.   I'm good at avoiding people who make racist remarks—that is, eliminating people from my personal circle of life who even have thoughts that might lead to such a remark.  So, I can see that I've been sheltering myself—not from the reality of racism, but the magnitude of it.  And I must commit to staying plugged in to that miserable reality.

 

Something I have come to believe down to the marrow of my bones:  The opposite of love is not hate, but fear.   Yes, hate is the costume fear often wears, but hate is not love's opposite.

 

We need more than superficial change, more than artificial change.  This time must be different. We must come to grips with decades of denial and find ways to stop being so damned scared of black men and boys.  Boys like Trayvon Martin.  We need to learn more about our fears.  One way to do that, seems to me, is to get to know some of the "others" personally.  Only then can we hope to give our individual and collective fears a rest.  Yes, let's all get to know some of the "scary" others.   We also can open ourselves to being known, a bigger challenge than you might think.  And we can make time to build relationships with "others."   Ultimately we're likely to come to understand and believe this:  The only thing to fear really is fear itself.  

The Morning After

http://momsdemandaction.org/in-the-news/today-we-are-all-trayvon-martins-mother/

Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America says, "Today, we are all Trayvon Martin's mother."

 

I asked on Facebook how we can begin to change the fear/hate in this country.  A friend I admire for her principles and her activism said, " I don't think we can change the fear/hate. 80 million moms need to take a stand and say ENOUGH! That is all it would take. That is all that has ever needed to happen. Too many moms too busy doing something else."  If you're reading this and haven't connected with this organization, please consider doing that.  It's one way to move toward 80 million moms saying ENOUGH. 

 

In all the commentary during and after the Zimmerman trial, Joy Ann Reid of The Grio has been a voice of reason, knowledge and clear perspective I've listened to carefully.  She said today that the defense, in their post-verdict press conference, were "spiking the football."  She speculated (on "UP" at MSNBC) that defense attorney O'Mara's post-trial interview and comments to the media at various points in the trial laid the groundwork for tainting the jury pool for a civil trial.  I couldn't understand why he welcomed all the exposure at such a time, unless it was to boost his own career, but Joy's theory makes sense.   Last night O'Mara was speaking, making me feel far worse, when I powered off the TV and took my sad self to bed.

 

 This morning I read a good column by Isaac Bailey at The Sun News and left a comment after seeing one accusing him of race-baiting.   Mr Bailey is right:  Acquittal doesn't mean innocence.  http://thesunnews.typepad.com/a_different_world/2013/07/zimmerman-verdict-justice-system-worked-but-acquittal-and-innocence-are-not-the-same.html#comment-6a00d83451ec3769e20192ac015630970d

 

Just switched channels to ABC's "This Week" and their reporter from Sanford was saying the jury arrived at acquittal based on facts, not race.   I wonder how he reached that conclusion?  Then, in a grave voice, he addressed the question of whether the community was still on "high alert."   The speculation about "riots" and being on "high alert" just adds insult to injury—adds to the myth of "dangerous black people."  Be afraid.  Be very afraid is the underlying message the "race whisperers" perpetuate.  Thank God Tavis Smiley is on the panel and eloquently laying race on the table. 

 

A thought from Facebook this morning:  The danger of acquittal was not more riots but more George Zimmermans.   Yep.

The Verdict

Less than ten minutes ago the Zimmerman jury rendered a "Not Guilty" verdict.  I'm stunned, partly because of a question the jury sent to the judge earlier this evening, asking for clarification on the manslaughter charge.  I would have bet good money on a manslaughter verdict or a hung jury.  Never, ever "not guilty."  Not after watching this process unfold.  

 

Change must come.  Somehow and soon.  A black man—young or old—should be able to walk  in a residential area, walk anywhere in the U.S.,  without being assumed a criminal.  Any American, any human being, should not be killed, because of an assumption.  Or plain old racial prejudice. 

 

Angela Corey,  Florida state attorney, is speaking to the media, sounding to me like the runner up in a beauty contest.  Jeeeeez.   I expect someone to hand her a bouquet of roses next.  Now she's sounding like a gracious hostess presiding over a Saturday night dinner party as she answers the media's questions.  Corey was just asked whether she had spoken to Trayvon Martin's mother since the verdict.  She said she had not, still grinning like the cartoon cheshire cat.  Apparently she was too busy getting to the microphones—"Our hearts go out to the victim's family . . . " sounds  sing-song and far too upbeat.  She seems to be eating this up, loving the spotlight.  I wouldn't be surprised to see her to take a bow at the end.  

 

Lead prosecutor Bernie De La Rionda just spoke—some emotions that match the situation, thankfully.  He accepts the verdict but is disappointed.  Can sense the anger beneath his disappointment, or is that my own?  His passion is evident.  He is not grinning. 

 

Ms. Corey is now back at the mike, and I swear she hasn't stopped smiling.  Somebody please tell her she's not on the defense team.  Maybe she's nervous.   At best, her affect seems inappropriate for the gravity of the situation.

 

Defense attorneys are now holding their media conference.  Can't listen to this.  I've hit a hard wall of sadness, and it's time to breathe consciously for a few minutes and get myself ready for bed.  Change must come.  We must see to it.

 

 

Absolutely!

(posted at FB/Global March for Peace and Unity September 21, 2013)

"The Sadness Lingers"

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/13/opinion/blow-the-sadness-lingers.html?smid=fb-share&_r=0

This is a compelling message from Charles Blow at The New York Times.  As we wait for the six jurors in the Zimmerman case to do their duty, Mr. Blow gives us food not only for thought, but for our spirits.  I hope this tragic case will be the one, of so many in the past, that will change minds and hearts.  That will motivate grassroots activists to renew the commitment to working hard for gun safety and, yes, for some serious regulation of firearms.  I hope this important case will change the way our law enforcement,  judicial system and culture sees and reacts to young black men.  We tend to fear people who look different than we do.  We make assumptions.  We stereotype.  Worst of all, we make false assumptions and our stereotypes often are far off the mark.  

 

I like to believe I'm free of such biases.  Well, this is a good time to examine that belief.  To recommit to living more mindfully, with greater awareness of my own frailties.  To catch myself when I sink into a lower state of consciousness and enter some crazy, lazy way of thinking about another human, whatever the circumstances.  To notice if I begin to assign cultural myths to any group of unique individuals.

 

Today I send good thoughts to those jurors.  I'm sending thoughts of peace to the parents and brother of Trayvon Martin.  They have been remarkable throughout what has to be an excruciating process.  The statement they released yesterday—in an effort to curb protests, whatever the verdict—was beautifully crafted, and it was a wise thing to do. 

 

I also feel sympathy for George Zimmerman's parents and for his wife.  May this tragedy turn out to be transformational for Zimmerman himself.  May he truly understand the magnitude of his deed, feel it deep in his heart, and in time begin to heal.

 

 If I were on the jury,  I think I'd vote for conviction on the manslaughter charge.  Or even the murder charge, if a review of all the evidence and testimony warrants it.  Since I posted this, I've heard some "legal analysts" on cable news say the murder verdict is warranted, given the body of evidence.  I can't imagine the jury returning a "not guilty" verdict.  But I'm not on the jury, and I'm glad not to be.  It's far easier to be on the outside looking in.

Happy Birthday, Malala

(from Melissa Harris Perry's excellent show/image on Facebook)

Malala was introduced at the United Nations with words approximating these:  "I'm going to say words the Taliban never wanted you to hear:  Happy 16th birthday, Malala."  

May she continue to inspire young women—all people— around the world.  May her strength, power, and courage remind girls and young women— in countries where they are free to go to any level in any field of study—that theirs is a precious freedom indeed.

Observations on the Zimmerman Trial

Okay, I’m not going to make it to the end of the Zimmerman trial without talking about it.  Since I’m not a sequestered juror, I can do that. 

First, I haven’t watched every minute of the proceedings, so no doubt I’ve missed some significant testimony.    I overcame the impulse to reschedule dental and gym appointments in favor of the trial, but I did listen on SiriusXM en route.  Now I need to process what I’ve witnessed so far, through writing about it.  The defense is getting close to resting their case, possibly this afternoon, according to cable news.  I’m eager to hear arguments to the jury when the time comes.  Whatever the verdict, I know the six jurors—sequestered for three weeks—will be mighty glad to get their lives back.

 

Observation and Opinion:

 

Judge Debra Nelson is running a tight ship with due consideration for the jury and courtesy to witnesses and attorneys in this second degree murder trial.    She seems reasoned, decisive, and sure on the law; she definitely has that hard-to-define “judicial temperament” when her patience has been repeatedly tested by attorney Don West.
 

Zimmerman’s attorneys are Don West and Mark O’Mara.  O’Mara is the gentle voice and a disarming presence; Don West hasn’t shown himself to be quite so amicable or patient.  In fact, (and I missed this) Judge Nelson walked out at the end of a 13.5 hour day when Don West was belaboring some point and arguing with her after she had ruled.   Just now (2 pm Wednesday), West objected to the judge’s questioning Zimmerman about whether he understands his rights to testify or not testify in this trial.  He kept objecting, and Judge Nelson held strong.  I think she showed great restraint not to hold him in contempt of court--if that was an option.

 

Points I Find Troubling:
 

George Zimmerman—with attorney Mark O’Mara at his side—gave a televised interview with Sean Hannity of Fox some months back.  In that interview he said that he wasn’t familiar with Florida’s “stand your ground” law.  During the trial, “. . .prosecutors say he did have knowledge of it, however, because the subject was covered in the college class. They called as a witness Alexis Francisco Carter, the military attorney who taught Zimmerman’s class that covered the “stand-your-ground” law, which says a person has no duty to retreat and can invoke self-defense in killing someone if it is necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm. Carter described Zimmerman as one of his better students and said the neighborhood watch volunteer got an “A’’ in his class.” (News4Jax.com)

The screams, heard on 911 calls, remain a mystery, with various witnesses—including both their mothers— certain the scream was either Martin or Zimmerman.   Martin's body had no signs of having been in a fist fight; whereas, Zimmerman did get a bloodied nose and a couple of tiny, tiny cuts/abrasions? on the back of his head.  Injuries were pronounced "minor" and "insignificant" by the medical people who testified; one was the Physician's Assistant  Zimmerman consulted the day or two days after the shooting.  He opted not to have an xray of his nose.

 

My theory is that Zimmerman was on top of Martin when they were on the ground at that time, and he was holding Martin in some painful martial arts lock that caused him to scream.  That would account of the lack of markings on his body.  If that is not the case, then Zimmerman apparently made no significant effort to "defend" himself with his fists—why?  He didn't need his fists; he had a gun.   I haven't heard that suggested at any point.  Just makes sense to me.   

 

Zimmerman had taken mixed martial arts classes for nearly a year—three times a week.  He’s been portrayed by defense witnesses as “soft.”  I find it hard to believe that having that much training, regardless of proficiency level, would not have taught him some moves he could use that night.  Then there’s Zimmerman’s obvious eagerness to act as a law enforcement operative (having applied for a job with the sheriff’s office and not getting it and volunteering to lead a Neighborhood Watch program).  So, he knew what the parameters of “self defense” in the “stand your ground” were when he gave his account of how the incident happened. 

 

In the Hannity interview, Zimmerman was asked whether he had any regrets about that night, about the death of Martin.   He said he had no regrets and that what happened was “God’s plan.”   There was no remorse, no words of compassion for the family of the young man he had shot and killed.  I find that troubling.  But lack of compassion and remorse isn't illegal.

 

When Zimmerman called 911, the operator told him not to pursue the young man he had seen (17-year-old Trayvon Martin).  But Zimmerman did get out of his vehicle and pursue.  He says he got out of the vehicle at one point to try to see a street sign; didn't know the street name. Strange to me, since it was pointed out that there were only three streets within the multi-family complex, and there was no street sign, but a street number should have been visible from where he was in his vehicle, according to photos presented during testimony. 

 

My sense of things at this moment is that the prosecution won’t get a 2nd degree murder verdict, but a “guilty” seems possible on a lesser manslaughter charge.  Or George Zimmerman very well could be acquitted under Florida law.  The jury of six women will decide that after being charged by the Judge Nelson.

 

Trayvon Martin had been to a nearby store and bought a bag of Skittles and an iced tea.  He was heading to watch a basketball game with the twelve-year-old son of his father's finance.  Someone said Martin was guilty of walking while black.  Walking in the complex where Zimmerman lived.  Zimmerman automatically assumed he was a criminal.  Martin was unarmed.  

 

Whatever the outcome of this trial, I feel strongly that America has gotten itself bogged down in fear.  Fear of  people who do not look like we look.  And, yes, I understand there had been robberies in the Zimmerman neighborhood.  I understand that two people arrested for those robberies were young black males.  

 

 I think we’re more focused on protecting ourselves and our precious belongings than on the value of human life.  All the concealed weaponry in the hands of non-law enforcement, non-military citizens is problematic.  This is a case in point.   I have grave doubts that Trayvon Martin was spoiling for a fight with Zimmerman— unless he was defending himself from a verbal or physical attack.  He was on his way to spend time with a 12-year-old kid and share the Skittles and have his tea. Watch a ballgame.  Even though not introduced into evidence, apparently there were trace elements of marijuana in Martin’s system.  Anybody who’s had any experience with it, first or secondhand, knows that smoking pot brings on a very relaxed, benign state of being--the opposite of an adversarial state.

 

Bottom line is I‘m glad this trial is happening at all.  I remember the Martin family saying early on that they only wanted a trial to happen.  Their son’s life, every life lost to violence, is precious and worthy of judicial process. (If you anti-choice proponents want to jump on this, have at it.  Pro choice people believe in the sanctity of life, too.)   Remember, the killing of Trayvon Martin was being treated casually, at best,  like too many other murders of young black men.  If justice advocates hadn’t made their voices heard, this trial likely would never have taken place.  If Zimmerman is convicted (and I have my doubts he will be), I hope it will send a message to citizen law enforcement wannabe’s.

 

To my way of thinking, the death of this young man underscores the need for repealing the “stand your ground” law.  It encourages the “old west” mentality and can lead too easily to the death of many other innocent people.  I have no doubt that Trayvon Martin was innocently walking home from a convenience store, cutting through the neighborhood where  George Zimmerman lived, armed with a bag of Skittles and iced tea.  And that got him killed that rainy February night—because Zimmerman happened to see him, think he was suspicious—and George Zimmerman had a gun.
 

 A lot is broken in our culture. 

Science

Cannot believe it, but I'm up to my eyeballs in the Zimmerman trial.  Never dreamed I'd watch so much of it.   Continues to be interesting.  Thus, instead of rambling today,  I'm posting something from the Rachel Maddow Fan Page/Facebook.   Enjoy.

Colbert Wisdom

(from Being Liberal FB page)

Trials Past and Present

Monday morning.  Blue skies and sunshine.  But no guarantees with the weather.

 

Same with jury trials.  I once served as third alternate on a medical malpractice jury.  Although the odds were long,  I believed, even then, that anything’s possible, and therefore I might become a juror who gets a vote.  So, I listened to all the tedious details including an endless bombardment of medical terminology. Good thing I didn’t nod off because I did get a vote and, in fact, was sequestered overnight.  I was driven home by a sheriff’s deputy who never let me out of his sight as I packed an overnight bag, stood at my back door while I took my dog Annie outside.  Any neighbors who might have seen me arriving home in the back seat of a police car never mentioned it.  We found the doctor not guilty.   Even though the case involved a tragedy, it seemed clear to me that the physician did the things that were his responsibility to do.  No negligence. 

 

I say this as prelude to a confession:  I’ve been using far too much time watching the George Zimmerman trial.  Had no plan to watch it and no burning interest in the proceedings.  So I thought— until I sat watching as I waited for a phonecall.   I'd forgotten that one of the things I inherited from my father is a fascination with the law.  It’s a little like being on a diet and suddenly being presented with a delicious caramel cake; I could go the rest of my life without eating cake again, but there it is, mine to savor.   Same with this trial. 

 

At first I managed to watch it as a juror might, rather than bringing a preconceived judgment.  Other than judging the death of this young man to be a tragedy.   I didn’t know all the facts.  Still learning new ones every day.  And drawing conclusions.


Some thoughts and impressions so far:

 

George Zimmerman had volunteered to become the “neighborhood watch” for the development where he lived.  He was fascinated by criminal justice and law enforcement and had applied for a job he did not get with the sheriff’s office.

 

Zimmerman gave a detailed televised interview a while after the event and in it said he had never heard about the “stand your ground” law.  Knew nothing about it.  During the trial a professor/attorney who taught Zimmerman in a criminal justice class testified that he had covered the “stand your ground” law.  He also said he remembered George Zimmerman well because he was one of his best students.  In fact, Zimmerman got an A in the course.  Very significant testimony and favorable to the prosecution.   

 

In that same TV interview (with Sean Hannity and with his attorney present), Zimmerman indicated zero remorse for what he had done, nor sorrow for the loss of a life, period.  He said to Hannity that he had no regrets about what happened that night and what happened was God’s will.  The lack of remorse or sympathy for the family is deeply troubling to me.  And Zimmerman is showing almost no affect during the course of the trial. 

 

Another thing was that the 911 operator had told Zimmerman not to pursue Martin when he reported an unfamiliar young man in a hoodie walking through the neighborhood.  All indications have been that he did pursue Martin.  Zimmerman's account has been that Trayvon Martin was the aggressor who pummeled him with blows.  The medical examiner testified  there were no bruises or cuts on Martin's hands when he examined the body.  That doesn't seem to be compatible with Zimmerman's story.

 

Trayvon Martin’s mother testified this morning and was impressive in her composure and courage.  Asked whether her younger son had tattoos on his body, she answered yes. Two tattoos.  One of praying hands on his shoulder, with his grandmothers’ names on them; another tattoo on his wrist bearing his mother’s name.   A real badass, right?

 

His older brother, a rising senior in college, looks very much like photos of Trayvon.  He testified after his mother.  He was composed and seemed earnest in his testimony.  I imagine the jurors saw the resemblance and thought about the fact that Trayvon would never reach that age or get to attend college or pursue whatever dreams he might have had.

 

 The medical examiner has just said that Martin did not die instantly but was alive— after a straight shot to the heart—for one to ten minutes—and surely in pain after being shot.  In going through every step of the autopsy testimony, it’s becoming less and less plausible to me that Martin engaged Zimmerman in a serious fight, if any fight at all.

 

Again, this trial is about a tragic and, I believe, unnecessary death.  I think the “stand your ground” law is problematic and serves to fuel fear and anxiety.  What’s far harder to change than any law is fear itself.  Especially in those who fear people who look different than they do.  People who dress differently.  People who act differently.  Fear is far more dangerous than a gun—but when fear is activated in someone carrying a gun, it can be deadly. 

 

Regardless of how this case turns out, a big question remains:  How can we stop the epidemic of fear in this country?  And where do we begin? 

Zombie Voters Bulletin

On this Fourth of July I'm thinking that freedom means all people being free to express themselves, especially at the ballot box.  Sadly, in some places in our Country (and not only in the South) the only way to assure this freedom is to reinstate Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act.   

 

It also could help to get the truth out about manufactured "voter fraud" claims—one way to dilute the influence of minority voters.  For example, in South Carolina, Columbia's Free Times has announced results of the State Law Enforcement Division's 18-month investigation.  SLED's findings validated what many of us had known to be true all along:  No 'zombie' voters, no voter fraud.    http://www.free-times.com/blogs/18-months-later-sc-law-enforcement-closes-case-on-zombie-voters-finds-no

 

The Free Times post points out that South Carolina's Republican attorney general often said, on the Fox cable news channel in the past year, things like "we know for a fact"—that the identities of deceased people were being used in elections in South Carolina.  I hope SLED's findings will be widely reported—maybe even covered by Fox?

S.C. GOP Attorney General Alan Wilson saying things like, “We know for a fact that there are deceased people whose identities are being used in elections in South Carolina.” - See more at: http://www.free-times.com/blogs/18-months-later-sc-law-enforcement-closes-case-on-zombie-voters-finds-no#sthash.f74hHxKw.dpuf

For a while last year, you couldn’t turn on Fox News without seeing S.C. GOP Attorney General Alan Wilson saying things like, “We know for a fact that there are deceased people whose identities are being used in elections in South Carolina.” - See more at: http://www.free-times.com/blogs/18-months-later-sc-law-enforcement-closes-case-on-zombie-voters-finds-no#sthash.f74hHxKw.dpuf

For a while last year, you couldn’t turn on Fox News without seeing S.C. GOP Attorney General Alan Wilson saying things like, “We know for a fact that there are deceased people whose identities are being used in elections in South Carolina.” - See more at: http://www.free-times.com/blogs/18-months-later-sc-law-enforcement-closes-case-on-zombie-voters-finds-no#sthash.f74hHxKw.dpuf

Other reports over the past year or two indicate there's little to no "voter fraud" in other states where—like South Carolina— Republican governors and/or legislatures are pushing "Voter ID" laws and restricting access to the polls.

Thank you, Free Times, for using freedom of the press to get this information out, just in time for the 4th.  Let freedom ring!  And may it ring in a new, progressive government for South Carolina in 2014.

Interdependence Day

Happy 4th of July!  America—you beautiful, free Country—you deserve the best. There are gifts I'd give you if it were in my power simply to "order them up."   Here's my list:

 

* Cleaner air and a pledge from us to take greater care in how we use your land and water.  Starting today.

 

* Greater harmony among those of us who live here, remembering we have significant things in common as well as our strong differences.  Surely that would make for a happier birthday for you, America.

 

* A majority in Congress that puts you first, allowing the will of your people to motivate them— rather than re-election anxiety and their own narrow visions of what you, our country, should look like.

 

*  I would wave my magic wand to raise the consciousness and sharpen the memories of your citizens, reminding us all that our precious freedoms include the freedom to think independently, to respond rather than react to issues and to one another, to extend compassion and respect to our fellow humans.  We need each other.

 

*  Because we need each other to become our best selves and, collectively, to be and do our best as a Nation, I would declare July 4 INTERDEPENDENCE DAY.  I believe you'd like for us to recognize it's nearly impossible (and certainly not as much fun) to be fully independent without also being interdependent.  It's possible to survive independently—but it takes collaboration and interactive support to truly thrive.  

 

* I would give you the gift  of seeing us celebrating our differences with good humor and working in the spirit of cooperation to do whatever it takes to help you heal, America.

 

Happy Birthday, USA.   Happy Interdependence Day!

Kristof Is Right: How Could We?

I would feel less than patriotic if I didn't share Nicholas Kristof's compelling column—his first after a five-month leave of absence to write a new book.


http://www.nytimes.com/2013/07/04/opinion/kristof-how-could-we-blow-this-one.html?smid=fb-share&_r=0

Regulating Women's Bodies

On "Meet the Press" Sunday, Rachel Maddow made me proud.  She was my hero (again) when she challenged Jim DeMint (former US Senator from SC and now HMFIC at the Heritage Foundation) when he said this about restricting women's reproductive rights:  That women would have the "opportunity" to have "free" ultrasounds, etc. etc.  Rachel set him straight by saying that the ultrasound bills are not an "opportunity" but a mandated invasive procedure which is NOT free for the women who would be required to undergo them, even when it's against their will.  She also set Ralph Reed straight.  I hope she went home and enjoyed one of the special cocktails she sometimes concocts on her show.  She deserved at least a double!

And here's one of my favorite images from Rachel's Fan Page on Facebook.  Let's celebrate our Interdependence Day by joining our energies to shift this crazy trend.  It's past time!

Standing Strong in Austin

Okay, I am about to burst to be at the High Noon Rally in Austin today.  Just learned that two friends-members of the SC Democratic Women's Council are there and sending photos.

As you may know, this rally came about after Democratic State Senator Wendy Davis pulled off an old-timey filibuster last week, speaking —on topic, no food or bathroom breaks, no leaning on or even touching the podium—for 11 hours.  The topic was the complex, comprehensive "anti-abortion" bill that was about to pass.  She ran the clock out and the bill died; however,  the intellectual giant of a governor of the Lone Star State called the Legislature back to meet in special session today for the purpose of passing the bill.  So, women from all around are rallying to protest.

 


(Thanks to Rollyn Carlson for sharing the photos with the SCDWC!)

 

 Senator Wendy Davis and her hot pink running shoes are likely to show up in Women's Studies curricula around the country before long.   She embodies the reason, intelligence, determination and stamina all women possess.  ALL women.  And the ways we use those things are as different as our unique personalities.  It would be a mistake to think that we are not all "in this" just because we express ourselves differently.  We are IN this fight.  I feel it in my solar plexus.  In my gut. I can feel the energy in the photos.  And this, my friends, is happening in Texas!  I lived there for three years, and it's a man's world on some serious steroids.  Many men there are "all hat and no cattle" but they certainly don't see themselves that way.  They're right proud of being manly men.  Or their sad notion of what that means.   The "lone star"— and it should be gold — should be enshrined in Austin.  The Lone Star City.  That's where much of the reasonable, creative, progressive, intellectual population seems to be concentrated.   (A word to non-Austin Lefties:  Please don't be insulted.  I live in South Carolina, for goodness sake.  I'm not proud of the current and recent government here, nor do I respect the antiquated attitudes of many of my fellow citizens.  You are not alone.  We can love our states and still feel that way.)

 

  Seeing the raised umbrella in the photo above, I imagine rain is falling, but it won't dampen the spirits of the women there.  And the fact that the rest of us aren't there won't dampen our determination to do whatever we can, wherever we can and however we can to make our voices heard.  We won't allow our hard-won reproductive rights to be infringed upon.  In our nation's capitol, the Republican-majority Congress has done its damndest to restrict women's health choices ever since a weepy Speaker Boehner gaveled the House to order on Day 1.  Instead of working on legislation that might lead to job creation or voting for the President's proposals to increase jobs, they became obsessive about limiting women's access to health care.  They were in a mad frenzy to shut down Planned Parenthood, primary health care provider for a huge number of women who otherwise would not have health screenings, family planning counseling, and basic care.   And, yes, a place to have a pregnancy safely and legally terminated if necessary.

 

 

 

And State Legislatures are following suit.  Did you know that in twenty-four states—almost half— the Legislative and Executive branches of government are Republican-majority?  Yep, House, Senate, and the Governor's office!  If that's not a reason to become more vocal and more involved in general, I don't know what is.  And, very important:  It's one more reason we need to rally for restoration of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act.  Since the Court's ruling last week, all sorts of voter suppression efforts have been launched.  Some within an hour of the ruling. There are no longer protections in place to challenge or halt unfair practices leading to voter suppression.  (Some talking head pointed out that anyone can initiate a lawsuit.  The "conservative" who said that knew good and well that litigation is cost-prohibitive for most people, and federal intervention is still badly needed.)   We need to be activists on this important issue as well as women's rights— for so many reasons.  One of the practical ones is that the Republicans are drawing district lines left and right (mostly right) to assure they will gain or continue their majorities in state governments.  And in Congress.  We can write off any gains in 2014 if Section 5 isn't reinstated in some form ASAP.

 

So, let's rally, march, visit our legislators until they are sick of us, write letters to editors, speak up in conversations, and stand with our sisters and brothers in other states as our support is needed.  And it's always good to have a crowd, don't you think?  Most of all, let's remember this:  The easiest way to lose our power is believing we have no power.  We do have power.  Let's use it wisely, well and often in the days ahead.