Seattle’s Goodwill?

Notice: To those who only want to argue for no logical or just for selfish reasons but to disagree, I suggest this to you. If you do not understand the intricacies of what is unconscious racism/discrimination, then don’t make yourself look ignorant by making an uninformed comment. This is for people who know what they’re talking about, not zealots of any form in matters of discrimination, racism, intolerance and bias. If you read what I’ve said and watch the video clips you will find that I hold all in this video that was in close proximity of this incident accountable, regardless of their race, gender or occupation.

Issue:
The lack of comprehension and adherence to the intricacies of unconscious racism also referred to as unconscious discrimination. Also, the lack of adherence to the trappings of racial profiling and guilty by association.

Incident:
Seattle, WA Police Detective Shandy Cobane did what so many have and will do when racism is not adequately addressed. See Video Below

Now Detective Cobane is not the only police officer at fault, because the female officer is just as guilty for participating by kicking him, when he wasn’t making any threatening gestures. In addition to the officer that I’m assuming was Black for not saying anything to his fellow officers, both Det. Cobane for his words and actions and the female officer for unprovoked aggression against the man. The female officer should have recognized what she was doing, but if this other officer was Black, I know he knows that what Detective Cobane said and did was unnecessary.

This goes to prove previous repeated arguments I’ve made that explains why racism isn’t racist, because anyone can be one. Also why the privileged routinely do not realize its privilege until it’s challenged or questioned. But this is not entirely the best venue for a cultural awareness course, but I would suggest one or just read up on the subject.

Reaction:

Around one minute into the video above, Mr. Roberto Maestas; a Seattle Police Chief Search Committee Member says what most Latinos, Blacks and many others members of present day ethic minority groups would say. “Profoundly disqusted, but not profoundly surprised.” What is typically missed is the agreement of those who would have agreed with the follow-up question the reporter asked. “Why aren’t you surprised?” That right there is the problem and what divides us. That is what goes unexplained.

Solution:

I agree with the actions of the Seattle Police Department to remove the officer, but believe they should also make the other two officers mentioned and others not seen in the video that was close enough to have controlled their fellow officer’s actions. They may not have said anything, but silence, inaction and voyeurism can be just as deadly as violence.

Det. Cobane may be wrong, but what everyone should consider is that he’s actually taking responsibility for his actions. This is an indicator that he is redeemable and more importantly, teachable.

When I ask people to consider others beyond themselves, I extend it to everyone. This includes the perpetrator and the victim.

So even if Detective Cobane was deliberately being racist, this is the time and optimal opportunity to redeem him. We can not be more willing to accuse and not forgive. What is challenging is figuring out how best to help people understand what they don’t understand. Racism, discrimination and intolerance can be understood and fixed. We must be willing to sincerely consider others first beyond the knowledge of our own experiences and circumstances.

To overcome racism and you must first have a keen understanding of racism in all of its guises. Don’t be so quick to call someone a racist until you know what it truly is, because it’s not always as it appears.

References & Inspirations
National Turk – May 10, 2010 “Seattle Police Officer Apologizes for Racism& Kick to Innocent Victim”

The Time is Now

Why is it that Republicans do not want to talk about immigration?

Could it be that it exposes  who they essentially have become or welcomed into their ranks?

When you observe their position on this issue you must ask the question of how long will we sit silently with a voyueristic mentality on immigration reform?

Yes, Democrats shouldn’t be comfortable either. The time is now and this is why Democrats, Moderate Republicans & Independents should speak up more than ever in solidarity with our immigrant friends who seek citizenship and those Americans immediately descended from immigrant parents.

There is a problem with illegal immigration in the country, but why is it always an issue with Republicans & their subsidiaries when the immigrant is Spanish or African decent? I’m sure you can find some European Illegal Immigrants, but where’s the outrage then?

Isn’t this what America is? A nation of immigrants. Or are we so captivated by who we are that we have forgotten what we are?

I’m not a Joe Scarborough fan at all. I’m generally suspicious of him, but this former Republican Congressman is one of the few who you push away from the GOP. He makes a valid point and so do his guests.

Finally, Republicans and friends. Do you realize the growing list of groups you continue to tell go away?  If you want to believe that it’s never about race then why is the GOP so overwhelmingly White? Yes, you have some Blacks and a few others, but what you don’t understand even about that is what is destroying the party. Democrats will continue to beat you over the head with this billy club until you do something about it in your positions and policy. To site an instance of diversity does not prove that you are diverse. Diversity is proven over time and by what you advocate.

About The Time I Get to Arizona

For those who fail to understand why the GOP and its subsidiaries continue to receive the accusations of racism despite the repeated instances, perhaps you can kindly explain the Civil Rights risk Arizona is taking with its anti-immigration state law.

Many are prone to believe what they hear on FOX News and Conservative Talk Radio, but how do you look into the eyes of your Black, Latino, Asian & Arab friends or neighbors if you have any?

To stopping anyone who appears to be an illegal immigrant…?

Do you not see the problems with that?

Do you realize by your support, what and where this can lead to?

The enforcement of this law will be a Civil Rights violation; an unconstitutional seizure of a person with probable Cause (or even “reasonable suspicion”); and, also a violation of 42 USC sec. 1983:
http://www.answers.com/topic/section-1983-1

It’s obvious that many do not, because most do not take the opportunity to consider the history and experiences of others due to their self fascination of their own.

Democrats should not be so politically cautious, because Republicans are marching off an electoral cliff by their blind support and disregard on this state law. They’re giving you political ammunition; do like Sarah and lock and load. Since it’s not about inciting violence.

Why stop here? Why not stop anyone who is Black, because they may be up to no good? While you’re at it, why not stop any one who appears to be Muslim, because they must be up to no good? Why not stop anyone who appears to be gay, because they must be up to no good? Let’s stop anyone who doesn’t fit a narrow description for what it is to be American.

The Great American Melting Pot… Please.

You can not be so blind to fear that you are so easily rounded up and subjected to succumbing to the cultural stereotypes that has plagued American history since its heist from the Native Americans.

Yes, there is a problem with illegal immigrants, but stopping anyone who appears to be an immigrant is not the answer. You’re bound to stop and American citizen? Do you not understand basic Civil Rights laws?

This is why the Republican Party and its subsidiaries will continue to alienate itself to irrelevancy.

This is not the way to solve the problems with immigration. You can blame Washington, but I believe there were some Republicans who are to blame as well as Democrats for inaction. You can not blame President Obama for all that is ill and not consider the roles of Bush, Clinton, Bush, and Reagan and beyond. This was a problem long before President Obama even announced he was running for the office, so lets be honest.

Do you realize that the more you alienate people the smaller and less powerful you become?

Who do you think benefits from your cultural ignorance?

Time and history will be your judge.

Do Something Before It’s Too Late

One of the most scariest images is an ideologically confused, unsocialized person with a gun in one hand and the Bible and Constitution in the other. What is more scary are the people who enables them.

For weeks I’ve been writing about race, rage, religion and the right. Some has attributed all of this to one bloggers obsession with race and republicans. And your assumption would be wrong. Many people who are silent on these issues are so because they either sees the truth in what has been illustrated and/or they’re simply uncomfortable speaking with authority about any of these subjects.

As I’ve illustrated last week is that it’s not always about race, it’s not always republicans, but it is about race and the role republicans are playing in the rage against this President. Many choose not to accept the reality of that truth, but what other logical conclusion can you draw if it isn’t about race? Politics is just the proxy, not the problem.

I give up on the realistic relevance of the Republican Party these days. It doesn’t want anyone who will question its authority. It doesn’t want anyone who will demand discussion. It doesn’t want anyone who is progressive, moderate, Black, Latino, Muslim, Young or even female. If you’re White, Male and Southern you’re welcomed. As a southerner I know that’s not a fair assessment, but many polls are trending in that direction when it comes to the GOP. It’s trending higher to those groups. The Democratic Party is not infallible, but at least I’m welcomed.

The fringes of society, whether it is the Birthers, the Deathers, the outrageous 2nd Amendment folks and the Racists they are not ruining the GOP, they have ruined the GOP. Who’s talking about bringing guns, Hitler, Nazis and the socialists. It’s not all Republicans, but it is a Republican problem and an American issue.

I’m surprised about the silence of those Republicans who has previous criticized me on various issues. What is worse is the timid tendencies of Democrats confronting them. It’s not all Republicans, it’s not all Democrats, but when will we finally have a Conservative who will talk down the paranoia of Republicans to Republicans? When will we finally have Democrats speak critically towards the timidness of the Democrats to Democrats?

I have restrained myself from saying this for many months, but I simply give up any possibility of having a reasonable conversation with most Republicans on many of these issues. I will continue to push Democrats to speak up, but their time is coming too if they don’t start doing what needs to be done.

Comment, criticize if you please. I give up. Let the M.F. Burn. (Reference to a previous post)

If what happened in November of 1963, February of 1965 or April of 1968 happens in today I will be sad, but I would feel sorry for those who helped caused it, because the blood would be on their hands. The outrage of the right could not match the rage that would come from the left and in the unexpected corners of society. I don’t want any of this to happen and urge people to do something more than nod in agreement or disagreement, do something before something happens. Before it’s too late.

Speaking Truth to White Power

How many among us have the courage to speak truth to power?

Regardless of your race, religion or political affiliation when confronted with the issues of hate, even from your own community, will you honestly have the courage to speak truth to their perceived power?

The law makers and law enforcers of my hometown (Nashville, TN) are discovering areas where they need to focus on doing.

Personally, I have absolutely nothing against Nashville Sheriff Daron Hall. I actually believe this was a mistake. I believe he’s doing a good job properly and fairly enforcing the law with concern for the safety of the public and the persons who may or have endangered the public.

Now I make this statement, because it’s rare to hear a Black man speak highly of  law enforcement agencies. It has been my experience on various encounters over the years both where I was at fault (speeding) or just an innocent bystander that Nashville & Davidson County law enforcement and public officials have been nothing but courteous and professional. I know there has been instances where that may not be true for all who may read this who has had contact with the same law enforcement agencies and I respect your opinion and experiences. In this case I can only speak for myself. I have been racially profiled, but it has never been by Nashville Police or Davidson County Sheriffs, but the smaller agencies and more affluent communities with their own law enforcement agencies that I’ve had difficulties with. Even then I gave them respect first and they realized their mistake, but who am I to harp on Considering Others. 

So with that said, I will continue.

November 22, 2008 Sheriff Daron Hall was a speaker at the Middle Tennessee Chapter of the Council of Conservative Citizens (CCC) at the Buffet Restaurant. This is an organization that describes blacks as being genetically inferior, opposes interracial marriages and all non-white immigration to name a few. Now that sounds like the protocol of another three lettered organization.

The Sheriff topic was the undocumented immigrant round-up of over 4000 illegal aliens. Now before any conservative citizen who chooses to shut down any measure of reasonable consideration of a constructive conversation allow me to say I commend the sheriff’s department for trying to reduce crime in Davidson County. As they clearly know, crime and in particularly illegal immigrants can be found in more areas than certain clusters of Hispanic communities. I’m sure if we checked out West Nashville, Bellvue and even a portion of Brentwood we can find some undocumented individuals who are not Hispanic or African, but look just like the White people who were at this particular meeting. So if we’re going to profile people, let’s be fair about it.

In a written statement to the Metro Council, Sheriff Hall said that he had no idea of the views of the organization. I was speaking about the department’s immigration program. Now I actually believe him, he has shown no history or racial animosity, but it raises another question, concern and need that all governments should be made aware of. On issues that involves race, religion, sexuality or culture with politics; you need someone to first brief you on the nature or ideology of the particular group. Almost like a cultural adviser. This could have been easily avoided.

Although I have my own opinions about the CCC, I don’t blame them for this incident. They’re not hiding under any sheets, because their website clearly states they are opposed to “all efforts to mix the races of mankind”. They even have merchandise for sell such as t-shirts that reads “White Pride Worldwide” in addition to links to a couple of hate organization.

What is interesting was the link to the Republican National Committee and CPAC. Why would they want to be associated with the Republican Party and not the Democratic Party? Given their admitted views, compared to what I’ve been told about how inclusive the GOP is given that they are the first political party in the U.S. to elect a Black man as chairman of the party, why would the CCC still associate with the GOP?

Side Note: I ask my Republican and Conservative friends to take a quick read at the Wiki on this group, specifically the issues & activities sections. If you voted for Ron Paul or Mike Huckabee you should check this out, but more importantly ask the difficult questions of yourself in addition to them. Even if you’re a Democrat, you should check this out, especially if you voted for Dick Gephardt in 2000. Don’t be afraid to ask the question, but be willing to accept the reality of the answer.

References & Inspirations

SPLC: Intelligence Report – Summer 2009 “Communing with Extremist”

Americans for Immigration Reform – 01/31/09 “Davidson County Sheriff Spoke at White Supremacist Dinner”

Nashville Scene – 01/31/09 “Sheriff Hall Speaks to White-Hooded Crowd, Earns Notice from Hatewatch”

Nashville Post – 02/05/09 “CCC Has No Final Solution”

Nashville Post – 02/03/09 “Uptown Klan”

We Think Just Like Everybody Else

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Manny Miranda, the chairman of the Third Branch Conference and the author of a letter that has asked Senate Republicans to consider a “Democratic filibuster” against Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor, just spoke at the Heritage Foundation luncheon for conservative bloggers.

“Hispanic polls, Hispanic surveys, indicate that Hispanics think just like everyone else. We’re not like African-Americans. We think just like everybody else. When I was on the leader’s staff, someone called me once and asked me: ‘What’s Senator Frist’s Hispanic agenda?’ I said, ‘low taxes, better education, more jobs … what are you talking about?’ And that’s how Hispanics are. This is an opportunity to educate them on all of our issues and they will resonate in the way that they resonate with everyone else.” – Manny Miranda

OH REALLY. And you wonder why… You know what’s the use. Simply Amazing.

Now I would personally like to hear Republicans, especially Black Republicans thoughts about this one.

You tell my Latino and Hispanic friends, “We like you. You’re not like those African-Americans over there” Oh we’re not meaning you Michael Steele, Juan Williams, Secretary Rice, Gen. Powell and the list of other accomplished or notable Black Republicans.

Where are the people who are so quick to tell me that the Republican Party is the party of Emancipation, the party of Lincoln? Where’s the emancipation of rhetoric?

Now before you get on your spill how the Democrats have done this or that, I want to give you the opportunity to explain this statement by your fellow Republican.

For months I’ve consistently warned people against this type of thinking over and over and over again, but I’m the crazy one and don’t know what I’m talking about? I have something against the GOP, but I would love to hear how you answer for this type of language. What I have against the GOP is the same that I have against the DNC and any other organization or individual who adopts this sort of ideology.

Listen to what he’s saying. “Hispanics think like everyone else. We’re not like African-Americans.” So how would you know how Black people think if your only experience with Blacks is the few that work near you or you see when you’re out? That’s right; one of your best friends is Black. I forgot that’s excuses it.

Next point, “We’re not like African-Americans.” What the Hell is that suppose to mean? Better question, what does that statement say about the person who said it? Once again, this is just another example of someone with limited social experience with Blacks. Seriously, if you stop looking down at people and start looking at people as equal, just maybe you’ll recognize that not all Black people think alike. I would love to have a conversation with him. But why not have a conversation with the few Black Republicans left. This really makes them feel welcomed and proud to be a Republican.

As a Democrat who is Black I am confident and secure enough with who I am and what I believe to clearly understand and recognize that there are some very intelligent people who can school you on the eclectic culture that is labeled Black or African-American and be Republican at the same time. I personally admire Joseph Watkins, J.C. Watts and Colin Powell to name a few notables. Get out of your segregated way of thinking. Then you wouldn’t make DUMB ASS COMMENTS like this.

What the Hell am I suppose to think?

This is the problem I keep hammering away at, despite the negative criticism, confusion and reluctance of honesty some have towards open discussion on the issue of race relations. You have further alienation of a party who already has a serious problem recruiting anyone who isn’t a White Male. Keep talking like this and see what happens to the credibility of your arguments to recruit any minority.

White Men or people are not the problem; it’s the thinking as if White men or people in general are the standard upon which we all should be measured upon. It’s the false sense of security of believing one is superior or inferior. The world is made up of more people than one race. You, me, we are just another part of the collective value of man. The days of acting, assuming and accepting White Men as the standard of measurement for the world is over.

While I’m at it I should just go there and say it.

Black people quit accepting and/or subscribing to any suggestion that you’re less than anyone else. You are just as valuable as anyone else. Start acting like it. When we see racism or discrimination we tend to address it. We must all be diligent in continuing this when we see it in our own community, family, and friends or even within ourselves. This means stop discriminating and blaming White people or anyone else for our own mistakes, failures or problems. Not all of the obstructions that prevent us from success as rapidly as someone else is caused by someone else. We can do, because it’s been done. I know it isn’t always fair or equal, but look at how far we’ve come. There’s not excuse to turn around now. We just can’t give up.

To my Hispanic and Latino family, you are a vital part of this community as anyone else. The obstacles you’re facing today are the same Blacks faced and in some cases still do. We walk this journey together. When some seek to divide us by their rhetoric and political posturing the reality is that we are essentially in the same boat. We’ve been friends & neighbors for decades upon decades and the community continues to made tremendous contributions to our society. It’s going to take you, me and many others to break the psychological chains ignorance, hate and discrimination that continue to bind so many people in terms of race today. But it can be done.

To my Gay and Lesbian friends, keep on. I understand your frustration. The fight for equality didn’t end on a Memphis motel balcony in 1968, but only intensified. Continue to fight for what’s right, fair, equal and just. Through propositions, resolutions and conversation with those who choose to embrace discrimination and/or refuse to reconcile the religion of love against the religions of man, I just urge you to keep on.

Equality is not going to be reached if we continue to segregate ourselves. Segregation even in terms of sexual preference. How can we live in a land half slave and half free. Slave as in terms of a mentality that binds us to an ideology, culture or religion of discrimination.
I can go back to the Lincoln-Douglass Debates for context to this problem we continue to have and take it all the way to another speech made by a politician in Philadelphia during March 2008. How else can you say it? How long will we hear people like Mr. Miranda make such statements?

The same Republican Party that Mr. Lincoln was apart of is not the same party it has morphed into today. The Democratic Party of Lincoln’s day was loosely what we see elements of today in the GOP. The GOP is not inherently evil or exclusionist, but they have lost their way in terms of being racially inclusive or tolerant. What happen?

The Democrats are a little better, but as we can reference a year ago, far from perfect. We too need to work with much more diligence to involve more people of color into the inner workings and decision making. We may have successfully won the argument today, but there’s always tomorrow.

What many do not understand about Blacks, Hispanics, Lesbians, Asians, Whites and Muslims are their similarities.

We may have different life experiences, but I can guarantee that we have something in common. Open yourself to diversity. Open your mind to the inclusive ways of thinking. Consider others not like yourself and their life experiences, before judging them by your standards. Most importantly, we must stop defeating ourselves. I’m just asking you to take the opportunity to know someone better and honestly. You are not superior and nor am I or the next person reading this inferior. You may be surprised with the prejudice you didn’t realize you held and recognize the value of diverse experiences.

Now I’ve grown accustom to always having someone misunderstanding this simple message. So I break it down to an easy sentence for those few. “Understand, respect, consider and appreciation people.”

“We’re not like African-Americans. We think just like everybody else” Amazing. Let’s try considering everybody.

References & Inspirations

The Washington Independent – 06/02/2009 “In Court Fight, Hispanics, Unlike Blacks, Think Like Everybody Else”

The Lincoln-Douglas Debates – 1858 “The Lincoln-Douglas Debates”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – 02/04/1968 “The Drum Major Instinct”

John Howard Griffin – 1959 “Black Like Me”

ABC News – 2001 “A Latina Judge’s Voice”

A Republican Joke

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After Sen. Specter’s defection to the Democratic Party as a result in part from the perception that the GOP has moved too far right, the GOP responds by placing a moderate as the ranking Republican with a very conservative Southern Republican who represents everything that has driven Specter and other moderate Republicans out of the party.

Sen. Pete Sessions (R-AL) is one of the most conservative senators, taking hard-line positions on issues such as immigration, civil rights, torture and affirmative action.

His nomination as a judge in 1986 ran into trouble when civil rights groups complained that he had pursued politically motivated voter-fraud charges against black leaders as a U.S. attorney in south Alabama. Others came forward to say he had made racially insensitive comments, including calling groups like the NAACP “un-American” and agreeing with someone else’s statement that a white civil rights lawyer was “a disgrace to his race.”

That leads me to begin to understand why he thought this joke was funny.

“I didn’t think the Klu Klux Klan was all that bad, until you learned that some of them smoke marijuana.” – 1986 Judicial Nominee Pete Sessions

Hold on, before you respond just wait it gets better…

In 1986 Joe Biden was a senator from Delaware that was on the Senate Judicial Committee. This is how he immediately responded to Pete Sessions, “Do you not think it was insensitive to say that in front of a Black man, after a Black man had just been brutally beaten and hung?”

So your boy Pete Session responded the way any good ole boy would respond, culturally insensitively, “Senator, my impression of the situation was that it was so ludicrous that anybody would think that I was supporting the Klan that he would not be offended by it.”

“Whatever Mr. Session’s view of the Klan may be today, the remark he made was not made in a joking manner.” – Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Figures (One of the lawyers in Session’s office at the time of the statement)

Seriously, you really think that was funny.

Republicans, is this who you really want to have represent you on matters of justice and civil rights in the senate?

Oh yes, I want to be Republican now. You have a Black man as a chairman, that’s all I need. Why should I consider reason, equality or fairness in judicial matters? The hell with justice, the hell with civil rights, the hell with cultural awareness, just show me a Black person and I’m all for it.

<Insert any number of derogatory adjectives of choice here> PLEASE! You’ve got to be kidding me.

So I ask the question again to Republicans, especially those who have align themselves with the politics of Pete Sessions. Why are you silent? If you want to suggest that you don’t see color how can you sit in silence when one of your own makes such a ridiculously outrageous statement? Unless you agree with it. I would love to hear your response to the question anything else will be deleted. You can not accuse me of being bias on this sort of issue, because I have called out Democrats who have resorted to the same tactics, regardless of their race.

Each time I’ve called on Republicans to speak up on this issue all I get is silence, but let me start talking about taxes or abortion and I can’t shut you up. Well speak up now. The party seems to not be able to validate itself without an enemy or something to protest or be upset about. Well this should upset you, but this is not just about some 23 year old joke, but the works and attitudes of the person who uttered those words since that time.

He’s record of insensitivity and intolerance is too long for me to comment on each instance, but I ask you to check for yourself by going to SourceWatch (a non-partisan project of the Center for Media & Democracy) to learn about Mr. Session. If you’re a Republican this is who your ‘leaders’ selected to represent the Republican Party and what it values in terms of judicial matters in the senate. (CLICK HERE TO VISIT SITE)

I challenge you to come up with a defense for some of his actions. I’m sure some will tip toe away from addressing his position on civil rights and immigration, but I can’t see how you can remain silent over his arresting opposition on torture.

References & Inspirations

Boston Herald – 05/05/09 “GOP’s Sen. Jeff Sessions leads court nomination fight”

SourceWatch – “Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL)”

Politico – 05/04/09 “Sessions to Replace Specter on Judicial Committee“

Let Go The Ego

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Let Go The Ego — I bring this up because a lady asked me this morning, “Why I’m a Democrat?” Now I’m being nice just having a friendly conversation with her about the weekend. I had a magazine in my hand that had President Obama on the cover and I guess working in a very conservative area of town this lady had to ask me a stupid question about politics. Of course she was a Republican, but I give her credit for breaking conservative protocol and having an open-minded conversation with such an evil liberal like myself. That was brave of her.

Now I’m being a little silly, but it helps me from doing what I see many people who does not socialize themselves doing. Assuming the worse or becoming oblivious to life around them.

This subject is something that I’ve come to a clear revelation on and have tried to hold back and it keeps coming back up. It’s not something I want to discuss all the time, but the question this lady brought up really bothered me, because I assume she would have known better. She appeared to be more aware of the diversity around her, but I guess I was wrong.

Since I didn’t have much time to go into it at the time she asked me, because I needed to get to work. But I invited her to visit this blog and I will try to provide a response. I didn’t think it would flow out of me this quickly, but here it is. I hope this does not offend you, but the cluelessness of the question is not just tied to you, but to an ideology.

The brief response I gave her wasn’t adequate and sincerely hope she reads this in full. I invite and challenge others to let go of their egos and consider others.

First I want you to understand that this is not just confined to just Republicans or Conservatives, although I’ve primarily received it from Republicans and Conservatives. This is spills into all walks of life, Democrats as well as Republicans, Christians as well as Jews, Muslims and others, Black, Latino, Asian, Native American and White. I titled this “Why I’m Not a Republican” to give it a title, but it’s not limited to just Republicans.

Now I’ve written about several of the topics regarding politics and have had many responses from people who identify themselves as either a Republican or Conservative. I appreciate the few fair-minded Republicans and Conservatives who take the time to consider what I’m saying even if they disagree or miss the point. Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will one person breakthrough the walls built up in opposition to alternative opinions in a day or single post either.

I’m not suggesting that Democrats or Liberals have all the answers either, but there’s a reason why I value Democratic and Liberal opinions over Republican and Conservative opinions. I choose to be a Democrat because of my life experiences. You may choose to be a Republican because of your life experiences, but the question was directed to me. The lack of many Republicans and/or Conservatives willingness to honestly address the many questions I’ve posed to them continues to strengthen my association with Democratic principles, but it’s not limited to them.

Last year during the election season I wrote several articles that asked Republicans and/or Conservatives a simple question and not a single person who identified themselves as a Republican or Conservative would answer the question, but was willing to bring up the single-issues of abortion, taxes and morality. The question was around what they thought about the clear and overt racism that was going on in the McCain/Palin Campaign. I repeatedly ask the question only to be called Nigger, Pompous, Uppity, Boy and many other names. It’s still there, reference posts between mid-August to late October 2008.

I know some will say well the Obama Campaign said this or that about McCain/Palin. Prove it. Night after night all we saw was lily white rallies that grew more and more intolerant of change. The discord within the GOP today on anything President Obama does is a continuation of that. You don’t like anything he does or has to say regardless of the facts. He’s not the blame for your discontent, nor is the Democrats.

When I address the hypocrisy of many Republicans, Conservative Christians and Democrats towards their treatment of our fellow citizens who are Gay or Lesbian all I received was hate. I continuously addressed it and the Republican or Conservative response was silence.

When confronting the issues of abortion, I thought I had a fair assessment on both sides of the coin and all I received was hate and complete closed mindedness. I took it down and wrote Ideological Moratorium a few days afterwards as a response to the hate.

I seek to have an honest discussion about race and was very fair towards Michael Steele’s chairmanship. I even defended him on more than one occasion, but what was he greeted with by his own party, hate. Look back at the post from early February to see for yourself.

I write about Religion and don’t even inject political ideology, but what response do I receive. Politics as usual. What I’ve written about religion, race and inclusion can be applied to political ideology and I have applied it. Many times I am greeted with the same partisan arguments that are bankrupt of any resolution.

Why repeat what hasn’t worked expecting a different outcome? Unbind yourself. This goes for Democrats too. Think! Think about what you are doing. Not in terms of how it may benefit you or your agenda, but how does it benefit others. Here I go back to this same question posed by Jesus and more recently by Dr. Martin King. What are you doing for others?

Stop with the nonsense of I’m a Christian if you are unwilling to act like Christ. Stop living in vain. IF you make it into Heaven there’s going to be people who were Democrats there. There will be people who may have had an abortion there. I’m sure you’ll find some of the same people you call illegal immigrants chillin’ with Christ there too. There’s going to be tax collectors up there, I believe Jesus hung out with one if my interpretation of the Bible serves me correctly. And while I’m at it, there’s going to be someone who was Gay or Lesbian up there too. Yeah GET MAD AT ME.  Who are you to judge?

You see that’s the point right there, who are you to judge. I believe that’s Matthew 7:1. How is the evil that you’re doing any better than the evil you accuse other of?

The point is that YOU’RE NOT GOD, so stop acting as if you are God judging everyone. Republicans as well as Democrats will go to Hell. America is not the center of the world and Conservatives isn’t the core of American values, nor is Liberalism.

You don’t know the life experiences people go through. Just because your parents, grandparents or uncle is or was a Klansman doesn’t mean you as a White woman can’t love a Black man. Just because a White man called you a Nigger and did everything within his power to hold you back doesn’t mean you can embrace that White man with sincere love. The Mexican man who is willing to work to support his family here and back home in Mexico day in and day out and endure discrimination from Blacks & Whites isn’t a criminal. Respect him or her. Just because you’re a Christian doesn’t mean that the Muslim is bad, embrace him or her has your friend and stop making them your enemy. Again, if you proclaim to be a Christian why do you hate your neighbor?

So what she had an abortion, treating her as if she was trash doesn’t help her feel any better about herself. Ask her what lead her to have an abortion and then LOVE HER for who she is, not what you want her to be. Terrorizing the doctor who performs the procedure is no better than remaining silent as the jury convicts the young Black kid to life in prison. If you’re pro-life why are many pro-death penalties? There’s a place for it and not everyone is rehabilitatable, but look at what you’re doing.

I am not a Republican, because I don’t trust the ideology. That’s not to say I believe all Republicans are bad as many of them accuse me of. All Democrats are not as evil as you believe they are. I’m just like you.

Last thing. Lay off President Obama. You may not understand or even care what he represents, but just like you told me back in 2000, GET OVER IT. He’s the President. What President Obama represents is not just a more united state of America, but the dream of America. That even the oppressed is worthy and can rise from the narrow confines that many place them in. The oppressed have managed to place themselves into this mind frame.

You and I are not as bad as some think or say we are. Never allow anyone regardless of who they claim or think they are telling you any different.

Everyone will not like what I have to say and for the first time I really don’t care if you like it or not. I say this because someone has to. I’ve come to a point in my life that it’s not about making you appear wrong for me to appear right. I’m tired of the crap we feed each other about one another. You may choose to believe or perpectuate the lie, but I’m choosing to approach it truthfully. Not trying to score any points or to make friends. You don’t have to believe what I believe for me to be friends with you. Talk ill against me if that makes you feel better. I just want us to do better. If we’re ever going to succeed at life we got to put down our egos and humble ourselves. Consider and accept others as you want them to accept you.

Hate is much harder to maintain than love. Simplify your life by embracing it openly and honestly in everything you do. We all mess up, but don’t give up.

I apologize for this running long. I’m talking about golf tomorrow. Lighter subject.

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I Ain’t Afraid of You…

As an American and a citizen of the world I think we are becoming a society of outrage. Wars and rumor of wars, but not war in the physical sense, but the emotional and psychological wars we continue to fight in our minds. The battlefield is our thoughts the weapons are attitudes and perceptions. The insurgents are a coalition of the unwilling consisting of the nation of lies, the state of delusion and the republic of misunderstanding. Collectively they are a nation of cowards.

America and in fact many other nations of the world fail to do is speak honestly, openly and sincerely about what divides us. Race, Religion and Sexuality and our misunderstanding of it is often at the heart of the problems.

Recently the U.S. Attorney General challenged us to think about what we are doing as a nation, a message I personally appreciated. It’s essentially a message I continue to try to deliver in various ways everyday, but I don’t have the prominence of an Attorney General. But many are trying to ignore the challenge by using disingenuous patriotic outrage over the statement of used by the Attorney General.

Some want to criticize Attorney General Eric Holder for the phrase “a nation of cowards” when speaking of race in efforts to deflect the meaning of his message to get you to talk honestly about race.

You’re doing exactly he is stating when you deflect the meaning of the message and reduce it to a phrase that when examine is true in ways.

It’s amazing how the same people complaining about being called “a national of cowards” had nothing or very little to say when Phil Gramm called us “a nation of whiners”. Where was your disingenuous outrage then? It’s an excuse for you to be upset. The disingenuous outrage over being called a coward proves that you are the one with problem. I don’t get mad when someone calls me a Nigger, because I know that I’m not one. What you do is not prove the person right by your reaction.

Think about the message the Attorney General is delivering. If you are a coward you would be upset by that statement and the entire message, because it’s calling you out. The spotlight is now on you.

I have repeatedly talked about race very openly and I believe many would say very honestly because of the very thing the Attorney General stated. If you do not believe me just do a search on this blog on ‘Race’ or ‘Race Relations’ and you’ll find numerous articles on the subject.

Racism is not a Black issue, nor is it a White problem. It’s not just a fact of life for minorities, but a reality for the majority. From the persistent attempts for assassination, the public words and actions of Republicans during the campaign to today, the needless words of elder Black civil rights activists in Illinois, former Klansmen outraged at their own political party, the words of so-called ministers of the gospel, the cartoons of a satirist, the hateful words of bigotry launched in California to the rising of the occasional Magic Negro, the meaning of the message is true.

I get criticized practically every week for something I’ve written and for raising a point that someone is comfortable with, even from the famed, Magic Negros themselves. I’ve been called every derogatory name associated with Blacks you can think of. I’ve been called White from Black people who assumes that I’m coming against my own race because I point out what is not right, fair or equal treatment that we do.

Awhile ago I told you about the “Magic Negro” syndrome, well here it is again.

Joe Hicks, a black Republican and the former executive director of the Los Angeles City Human Relations Commission, chastised Holder for his comments, calling them incendiary.

“Here’s the first black attorney general appointed by the first black American president and he’s espousing views that appear to be almost ultra-left in their approach to race in America, that blacks are victims and whites are intolerant and accepting of quasi-racist views”.

Think about this. Now what difference does Joe Hicks race makes? Why is the fact he’s a Republican or a former director of LA Human Relations Commission matter? When you’re in trouble and it pertains to race relations; who do you call? The Magic Negro.

What the Attorney General is saying is true and the fact of those who are outraged proves its truth. Those outraged over a phrase do so because they do not want to realistically and honestly address the difficult and unsexy subject of race. When you don’t really understand who you are you are afraid of others.

The people who continue to misunderstand the irony of racism I ask you to think about it before calling someone a racist. Is there words who they are and are you what they say you are? Can it be silently proven by your actions or reactions? Eric Holder is not a racist, just as George W. Bush is not a racist. You may disagree with him, but what he says on this subject at this time is true. Listen to the entirety of his message and open your mind to considerations other than your own.

I applaud the Attorney General for making the statements, because it appears that the only way to get some to pay attention and stop the non-sense of the notion that since the President is Black, the Attorney General is Black and there has been great achievements made by Blacks that racism, bigotry and discrimination is over in this country. You’re fooling yourself. We have seen it repeatedly each week that its not.

I swear I got to go back to school and get a PhD, so I can have the credentials to teach this stuff, because it’s as transparent to understand as the souls and intentions of Rush Limbaugh, Karl Rove & Bill O’Reilly.

You may disagree with me on many issues, but in the end none of them are important. If there was not government or religion there will still be us; a race of people. People of many variations, shades and complexions all important all with value.

So I say it AGAIN the same reality that is undisputable. We are all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality. In order to not be considered a coward we must not conduct or react as the true definition of a coward.

Talk to me. Your silence says more than your words of contempt and outrage of any subject. What are you silent about? When are you silent? Why should I take you seriously when you fail to speak up on important issues? Your insensitivity and lack of awareness of issues of importance is the indicator of a coward or just someone who may be uninformed or afraid.

I am just like you. I may be Black, I may be a male, I may not be as rich, as educated or even maintain the same measure of social status as you, but I am just like you. We have different experiences, we may believe differently on many things, we may even approach love differently, but I am just like you and you like me. Once you can understand and accept that fact, then we can make of this old world an even better world.

References & Inspirations

CBS News – 02/19/09 “Conservatives Hammer Holder for Cowards Comments”

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Drum Major Instinct”

Thoughts, Ideas & Suggestions – 01/01/09 “Your Friendly Neighborhood Negro“

Nashvillians Say No to English-Only Amendment

This story was a little personal for me, because it’s my hometown. I’ve followed Nashville politics since I was a child. I was always fascinated by it and it’s what sparked my interest in politics in general. So when I began to hear this debate for English only vote spew out into the national media spotlight I paid closer attention. My attention was not on what I believed Nashvillians would do, but what influence from the national media may sway their vote.

You have to live in Nashville to really understand the culture of the city. It’s not what many people think of it as some cowboy hat wearing, horse riding country music listening big small town. Ofcourse you will see some cowboy hats, but its normally tourist wearing them. If you are walking down on 2^nd Avenue or even a few spots on Broadway you may hear some live country or blues music being played at night from some of the bars, but it is Music City. You will hear Gospel, Blues and even some Hip Hop too if you go to the right places.

If you want to mess everybody up, just walk into Tootsie’s (famous country music spot) wearing a Public Enemy shirt like I did back in the early 90′s. I was thirsty, but that’s another story.

Nashville has a growing immigrant population that’s has made great contributions to the culture and heritage of the city for decades. We don’t have many racially related crimes, nor does the city discourage cultural diversity. Growing up in Nashville helped form my views and experiences regarding race, but I’ll talk about that more in a few weeks.

So you may understand why I was a bit disappointed with Councilman Eric Crafton’s proposal for English-Only. I personally believe it was to raise his own political profile for his own future aspirations, but that’s hearsay.

The final vote was 32,144 for English only and 41,752 against. Obviously this was a very low voter turnout, but I’m happy for those who did turnout to vote.

The measure would have forced all Metro Nashville government business to be done in English, with the council allowed to vote on exceptions. Metro’s legal department contended early on that conflicts with federal law would enmesh Nashville in litigation for years to come.

So by defeating the measure, Nashville will not be the largest city in the nation with an English-only rule in its charter despite dogged efforts by Metro Councilman Eric Crafton, who spearheaded the amendment.

Councilman Crafton and his Nashville English First group argued that the city would save the city money in translation services and become unified as the result of more immigrants learning English.

“We have got to speak English. We would be divided as a country if we don’t. We can’t do a lot about the illegal immigrants that are here, but they won’t be able to go get government services because they won’t be able to read forms. This country is based on English.” — Kevin Ferrin

I respectfully disagree with this idea because it tends to omit the notion that we are a country of immigrants. Whatever happened to the Great Melting Pot philosophy? This country is based on many things both good and bad, but we have already seen what happens when you put up exclusive signs. You may not see a physical sign that says “English-Only”, but regardless if it’s out in the open or hidden in our hearts, the use of divisive language is harmful under any translation.

Even Councilman Crafton said he is glad the special election is over. He has been trying to get the charter amended for two years; first failing after former Mayor Bill Purcell vetoed a council vote on the issue and then failing to get it on the November ballot over a technicality in timing. Well I hope you’re happy and keep your word by not bring it up again, but I’m sure some devotee of division will raise it up once again. Perhaps we should bring back the Colored & White’s Only signs too.

I love how Maria Rodriguez, Director of the Florida Immigrant Coalition used a familiar civil rights quote that was recently used in the inauguration benediction by Rev. Joseph Lowery. She said, “Voters are not duped anymore. They know when they see bad policy that is going to be costly and that’s not progressive. … I guess brown can stick around in Nashville.”

References & Inspirations:

The Tennessean – 01/23/09 “Nashville’s English-Only Measure Defeated”

The Tennessean – 01/23/09 “Quotes about English-Only Measure”

The Affirmative Action Candidate

During this political season I’ve listened to the supporters and opponents of Affirmative Action and those who think they are a supporter or opponents for awhile and wanted to offer a different perspective on the topic.

Affirmative Action has become an ideological divisive issue that has been effectively used to play on the fears of primarily Whites and Blacks in America, but other racial groups should be included as the political targets of fear mongers too.

The fear mongers are those who support and oppose Affirmative Action. I believe that it’s not always intentional, but due to a lack of understanding for the need for the program and the conditions that supports its existence.

Affirmative Action — Why do we need this program? Why do you agree or disagree with it?

If you’re honest with yourself you will admit that after you read the title you immediately had a mental picture of Barack Obama. That’s the product of effective social programming and accepted cultural perceptions. Affirmative Action = Black for many people of all races including African Americans.

I want to challenge you to think about the numerous expectations placed on Barack Obama during the Democratic Primary and in the General Election and one could argue that it doesn’t measure up to the definition of Affirmative Action.

So what is Affirmative Action?

Affirmative Action is a set of public policies and initiatives designed to help eliminate past and present discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

Why is it that more African Americans benefit from this program than other races?

I believe that’s the misconception that is promoted by those who use the program as a political baton to drum up support or division.

Instead of allowing yourself to be divided by an issue I am asking you to measure your arguments for and against Affirmative Actions fairly and equally to all candidates.

The Republican Vice-Presidential Candidacy of Sarah Palin should not be measured differently than any other candidacy. Isn’t it basically what Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “…judged by the content of my character not the color of my skin.” Barack Obama, Bill Richardson, Hillary Clinton and Mitt Romney did not get any breaks. So why should Sarah Palin be protected from public scrutiny? If we are to eliminate the need for Affirmative Action we can not permit the bar of expectations to be lowered to ground level for one, but not for all. If we live in a “post-racial” society you wouldn’t have the need for the program, but that united state has not become reality in America.

The level of expectation was not lower for Barack Obama. The level of expectation was not lower for Bill Richardson. The level of expectation was not lower for Hillary Clinton. The level of expectation was not lower for Mitt Romney. If or when they misspoke or made a mistake they paid for it. The bias against the unknown or misunderstood supports the argument for Affirmative Action and undermines the argument against it.

Conservatives tend to argue against Affirmative Action using the typical rhetoric passed down year after year, but does nothing to address the valid argument for it.

Liberals tend to argue for Affirmative Action using the typical rhetoric passed down year after year, but does nothing to address the valid argument against it.

No one seems to want to listen to each other and work together towards true equality and unbiased treatment. Isn’t that the ultimate goal? What you want will not happen until you work together and address the real issues behind Affirmative Action.

Sarah Palin is the Affirmative Action Candidate in the election cycle, not Barack Obama. The fact that she is protected for speaking to members of the media is an indicator that she is the Affirmative Action Candidate. The fact that the political spin masters want you to ignore the facts is an indicator that she is the Affirmative Action Candidate. When her statements are easily fact checked as false, but she’s still viewed as credible is an indicator that she is the Affirmative Action Candidate.

If Barack Obama, Bill Richardson, Hillary Clinton or Mitt Romney made the same mistakes that Sarah Palin has and continues to make during this campaign season they would have been disqualified quickly and deemed unsuitable to hold the office of President or Vice-President of the United States.

Whether you’re for or against Affirmative Action you will have a difficult time disproving that Sarah Palin is the Affirmative Action Candidate.

PS: Now I know someone is going to submit some unusual arguments without even reading or getting a grasp of what was just written. So for those individuals I know will feel the need to comment, just think about it first. I’m not arguing for or against Affirmative Action. I actually understand both sides of the argument. My argument is that nothing is going to change until we all change our way of thinking and come on one accord to resolve our grievances both past and present without reservations and misconceptions of what the other group thinks.

More Information and News Stories around Affirmative Action:

• N.O.W. “The Origins of Affirmative Action”
• Cornell University Law School “13^th Amendment“
• Cornell University Law School “14^th Amendment”
• Cornell University Law School “15^th Amendment”
• U.S. Equal employment Opportunity Commission
• Wikipedia “Affirmative Action”
• Washington Post – October 1998 “Affirmative Action Under Attack”
• MSNBC – 07/27/08 “McCain backs efforts banning Affirmative Action”
• USA Today – 07/27/08 “McCain sides with ban on Affirmative Action”
• ABC News – 07/27/08 “McCain Reverses Himself on Affirmative Action”
• ABC News “Barack Obama’s view on Affirmative Action”
• 1999 Unity Convention (Seattle, WA) – 07/08/99 “John McCain Supports Affirmative Action”
• ABC News “Democratic Primary Debate with Clinton & Obama”
• Slate – 03/31/08 “Shades of Gray”
• U.S. Department of Labor “Facts on Executive Order 11246 – Affirmative Action

Monica Goodling: No Justice, No Job

The Justice Department concludes that Monica Goodling, senior counsel to former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, wrongly considered political and ideological affiliations when hiring. Isn’t this called discrimination? I wonder what else went into the consideration.

The report concludes that Goodling, Sampson and others broke the law by considering political and ideological affiliations in selecting immigration judges, federal prosecutors and other candidates for jobs that are supposed to be free from politics.

Monica Goodling would regularly ask job applicants these questions:

MG: What is it about George W. Bush that makes you want to serve him?

TV: That would disqualify me right then, but I wouldn’t want to work with him anyway.

MG: Aside from the president, give us an example of someone currently or recently in public service who you admire.

TV: Again I would be disqualified right then, because I would only mention Democrats. According to Monica Goodling standards my answer would disqualify me.

MG: Why are you a Republican?

TV: Now cursing in an interview is a Big Disqualifier, but I would understand if you used a few in your response to this question. This should only be asked if you’re applying for a job with the RNC.

Monica Goodling knew that what she was doing was wrong.

When you can denied a job to Michael Battle, because his wife was a Democrat you know you’re out of control and essentially a sophisticated corporate gangsta. I give her some slack only because she’s a typical conservative Republican, it’s difficult to expect anything different. I’m just surprise that she was so gangster with it.

I can confidently make a BET that she (Monica Goodling) will either get what essentially is a “slap on the wrist” or allowed to walk free. Perhaps Bush will do a Scooter Libby move for her too.

***********************

Gangsta — a person who exhibits the traits or demeanor associated with the high risk lifestyle. You will find a gangster behind organized crime.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Additional Resources:

• 
  http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=92986301
  

• 
  http://media.npr.org/documents/2008/july/justice.pdf
  

• 
  http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/g/monica_m_goodling/index.html?inline=nyt-per
  

Obama on Immigration

This is why I’m voting for Obama and encourage you to do the same. Take time to listen to his views and what he’s going to do in regards to immigration. Makes Sense.