These are Gerald's words from a FB post. Gerald is my younger brother who is never short of opinion. Yea, I guess that runs in the family. These are his words which I did not get permission to use but I am sure he won't mind. He wrote this in response to the state of Georgia's controversial decision to execute Troy Davis despite mounting evidence that could possibly have proven him innocent. Please comment. I'd love to hear your views on the subject.
AmeriKKKa has a deep-rooted history of racism and oppression of people of color in not only this nation but all over the world. It should come as no surprise that the state of Georgia would deny Troy Davis a stay of execution at this late hour. To do so would lift the veil of deceit, corruption, racism and racial prejudice that continues to exist not only in Georgia but all across this great nation we live in. I'm not appalled or shocked. AmeriKKKa has a history of killing our people unjustly through mob violence, lynchings and outright murder and now with the death penalty they do it outwardly and openly with no fear of repercussion. We've marched, wrote letters, emails, sent texts, protested and raised our voices in protests only to fall on the deaf ears of our so-called leaders and representatives in the justice system. Despite the mounting evidence that the police lied, tampered with evidence and used threats and coercison against witnesses in order to wrongly convict Troy Davis, the Supreme Court denied his just due and right to a fair trial in this country.
When I think of all the brave men and women that serve to protect the sovereignty and freedoms we have in America that are really limited at best to some of us due to the color of our skin, yet we sacrifice our lives for the freedom of those abroad to have access to a freedom and democracy we have yet to fully realize for ourselves right here at home, it sickens me. This country is the greatest country on Earth, yet it has so-many "in-house" problems it can't seem to resolve. The race issue is not dead, yet many would like to dismiss blatantly racial issues and say, "Oh, stop playing the race card." Yet, you have psychologist, and criminal profilers claiming that blacks are more likely to commit certain crimes after rehabilitation than other groups, blacks are more prone to commit violent acts than others and then use these prejudiced statements as basis for not only convictions but denials of parole, clemency and other processes that may exonerate not only the wrongly accused but those that have served their time for the crimes that they committed years ago.
Tonight we should all pray and come together for not just understanding but come together as a voice to these so-called politicians that are supposed to represent our interests. We need legislation proposed to end the Death Penalty, impose a real checks and balance of these police stations that doctor up evidence and make unlawful arrests, clean up the corruption within the highest ranks of police departments, eliminate the collusion between defense attornies and district attornies that plea bargain away the lives, hopes and dreams of innocent men and women of ALL RACES across this great nation. Somebody has to be accountable for this injustice, somebody has to be willing to stand up against it...I am. Are you? (Truly Saddened, Gerald Cole)
Copyright September 22, 2011 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Showing posts with label Politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Politics. Show all posts
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Diva Dialogue-September, 2011
So I have a few minutes so I thought I'd whip out a blog. Hey, y'all! School started yesterday. I now have a high schooler and a 5th grader. Time flies when you have children. My grandmother told me that long ago and of course she is correct.
So there are quite a few things going on. First and foremost, the GOP presidential candidates are trying to gear up for what is going to be a long dreaded race. I am so not feeling that. Obama has a fight on his hands with one of thosefools folks. Here's my opinion, Obama has been soft and the public is pissed. They hate the health care plan, there are still few new jobs, and most are hoping for a different type of change. Congress has been hard and unyielding. Frankly, I am sure they can care less what their constituents desire as long as they have yet another chance to disagree with the POTUS. I think it is time for Obama to take a hard stance on something and follow it through. I really want him to have a Southside Chicago moment but America would then label him an angry Black man and we definitely don't need that.
Normally, I don't watch the Oscars but this year, I just might. Eddie Murphy has been selected to host the event. I am kinda intrigued by that. He is an impressive comedian who I think can be edgy but not rub folks the wrong way like Piers Morgan did. We'll see! Only time can tell. I will tune it and see what I think for myself. Hopefully, this year will include some movies that people actually go to see and enjoy.
So Beyonce is preggers. Do we care? I think not. I am happy for her and Jay-Z. Let's hope the baby gets the best of both of them. When I think about it, that baby could turn out to be not very cute. Let's hope it gets the best of the talent pool too.
I am cynical about Hollywood marriages. I hope Jada and Will don't come out in a couple of weeks talking about their marriage is over ala Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony. Rumor has it that Jada and Marc had an affair. My question is this, if you have an open marriage, can you really have an affair? IMHO, Marc Anthony is not attractive. He looks kinda dirty to me. Oh and for those of you who don't know, Hawthorne was cancelled.
Kate Gosselin is job hunting. Any takers? TLC finally cancelled her lame show and no she has to find a legit gig to take care of her eight children. Ex-spouse, Jon, is probably very happy since being on television was detrimental to his kid's normalcy. As if they could be normal with such crazy parents.
Shaunie O'Neal should be ashamed of herself. I don't watch either of her shows but let's face it, they are crap. None of the so called Basketball Wives are in fact, wives. Oh I forgot, you can be a former wife, a groupie, or a baby mama and qualify. Makes me wanna holler! I know I expected Shaunie to produce a more classy show and held her to a standard that she obviously didn't deserve. Shaunie is prostituting those women and they are desperate enough to let her. She sits back and chills while they make complete fools of themselves. Why? because she is getting paid, that's why. Diva lesson for the day: Never sell your soul for the Almighty Dollar!
Okay that is it for now. Real random, right? I know I am sorry, it just had to come out. On a more serious note, in a few days, it will be the tenth anniversary of 9/11. There are quite a few television remembrances being shown. If you weren't affected, be thankful. If you were, my heart and prayers go out to you. Let's all reflect and remember the lessons that we have learned as a result of that day. America is a strong country and we move on, but we are ultimately shaped by everything that takes place in our conveluted history. Till next time, peace and blessings!
Copyright September 7, 2011 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
So there are quite a few things going on. First and foremost, the GOP presidential candidates are trying to gear up for what is going to be a long dreaded race. I am so not feeling that. Obama has a fight on his hands with one of those
Normally, I don't watch the Oscars but this year, I just might. Eddie Murphy has been selected to host the event. I am kinda intrigued by that. He is an impressive comedian who I think can be edgy but not rub folks the wrong way like Piers Morgan did. We'll see! Only time can tell. I will tune it and see what I think for myself. Hopefully, this year will include some movies that people actually go to see and enjoy.
So Beyonce is preggers. Do we care? I think not. I am happy for her and Jay-Z. Let's hope the baby gets the best of both of them. When I think about it, that baby could turn out to be not very cute. Let's hope it gets the best of the talent pool too.
I am cynical about Hollywood marriages. I hope Jada and Will don't come out in a couple of weeks talking about their marriage is over ala Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony. Rumor has it that Jada and Marc had an affair. My question is this, if you have an open marriage, can you really have an affair? IMHO, Marc Anthony is not attractive. He looks kinda dirty to me. Oh and for those of you who don't know, Hawthorne was cancelled.
Kate Gosselin is job hunting. Any takers? TLC finally cancelled her lame show and no she has to find a legit gig to take care of her eight children. Ex-spouse, Jon, is probably very happy since being on television was detrimental to his kid's normalcy. As if they could be normal with such crazy parents.
Shaunie O'Neal should be ashamed of herself. I don't watch either of her shows but let's face it, they are crap. None of the so called Basketball Wives are in fact, wives. Oh I forgot, you can be a former wife, a groupie, or a baby mama and qualify. Makes me wanna holler! I know I expected Shaunie to produce a more classy show and held her to a standard that she obviously didn't deserve. Shaunie is prostituting those women and they are desperate enough to let her. She sits back and chills while they make complete fools of themselves. Why? because she is getting paid, that's why. Diva lesson for the day: Never sell your soul for the Almighty Dollar!
Okay that is it for now. Real random, right? I know I am sorry, it just had to come out. On a more serious note, in a few days, it will be the tenth anniversary of 9/11. There are quite a few television remembrances being shown. If you weren't affected, be thankful. If you were, my heart and prayers go out to you. Let's all reflect and remember the lessons that we have learned as a result of that day. America is a strong country and we move on, but we are ultimately shaped by everything that takes place in our conveluted history. Till next time, peace and blessings!
Copyright September 7, 2011 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Monday, May 2, 2011
Osama is Finally Dead
Last night Pres. Obama announced that Osama Bin Ladin had been killed by US Navy Seals. What a whirlwind of images floated through my mind and another torrent of emotions surged in my heart. Wow! After 10 long years, where most American were confident bin Ladin would never ever be caught, the master of hide and seek was found and killed in a mansion in Pakistan. So many thoughts floated through my mind. I had gone downstairs to make a sandwich and came up to find my husband watching his favorite station, CNN. He quickly advised me that something BIG was happening but had no clue what. I stated, "maybe they caught and killed bin Ladin" in jest. He looked at me like I was crazy said that he thought it would be something to do with Libya. Moments later it was confirmed that I was actually on point. I patted myself on the back and waited with bated breathe for the President to appear and make the formal annpouncement.
As we waited, I reflected on that fateful day in September. I prayed that the families of the victims would feel some type of relief and closure. You can't minimize their loss and you definetely sympathize with their grief and pain. I pictured then Pres. Bush saying that we would seek justice. I thought about all the troops that fight tirelessly. I had a realization that there may be retaliation, so the troops are probably no closer to coming home. I prayed for their families, too. I prayed for the Obama family. Running this country can't be an easy task and of late I feel the public has made a mockery of the position. We are going to see all kinds of fallout from this one event. Some of it will be good and some of it will be tragic. What I am waiting for is to see how we proceed in our dealings with Pakistan. That is a very fragile relationship right now.
What I know is this, God is in control. He blesses in the midst of messes. We should all feel good about our country and pray for our leadership. Our daily security is threatened in ways we never know. There is another Osama bin Ladin who is already trained for the next task. We must be sober and vigilant. Yes we must always have hope. Only God knows why things have been orchestrated this way and we have to trust that His plan really is good.
I initially was gonna write about the White House Correspondent's Dinner. Obama and Seth Myers took it to Trump. We know he will be asking to see the body and wanting to check the DNA for himself to assure that Osama is dead. Let's face it, after waiting 10 years, we all need some proof. It is just the nature of the beast. Here's what I like about how things played out.....Yes, Obama dogged Trump. He deserved it. It was a classy way to get a Southside Chicago beatdown without throwing a blow. It was triumphant that the Pres pre-empted Trump's show the next night at what I know to be a pivotal moment. He interrupted the show and then arrived on CP(for my Caucasian friends, that's Colored People's) time to show that he can be gangsta if he has to. Tee hee hee. He delivered a clear concise message to the American public.
The Americans cheering outside the White House made me reflective. Was it really a moment to cheer? Would justice have been better served if bin Ladin had to meet a judge and jury? How were the families of the 9/11 victims going to feel? Hope or hype? Are we any safer? Are the troops going to come home any time soon? Only time will tell how things will play out. God bless America!!
Copyright by Pamela Cole Thorpe on May 2, 2011
As we waited, I reflected on that fateful day in September. I prayed that the families of the victims would feel some type of relief and closure. You can't minimize their loss and you definetely sympathize with their grief and pain. I pictured then Pres. Bush saying that we would seek justice. I thought about all the troops that fight tirelessly. I had a realization that there may be retaliation, so the troops are probably no closer to coming home. I prayed for their families, too. I prayed for the Obama family. Running this country can't be an easy task and of late I feel the public has made a mockery of the position. We are going to see all kinds of fallout from this one event. Some of it will be good and some of it will be tragic. What I am waiting for is to see how we proceed in our dealings with Pakistan. That is a very fragile relationship right now.
What I know is this, God is in control. He blesses in the midst of messes. We should all feel good about our country and pray for our leadership. Our daily security is threatened in ways we never know. There is another Osama bin Ladin who is already trained for the next task. We must be sober and vigilant. Yes we must always have hope. Only God knows why things have been orchestrated this way and we have to trust that His plan really is good.
I initially was gonna write about the White House Correspondent's Dinner. Obama and Seth Myers took it to Trump. We know he will be asking to see the body and wanting to check the DNA for himself to assure that Osama is dead. Let's face it, after waiting 10 years, we all need some proof. It is just the nature of the beast. Here's what I like about how things played out.....Yes, Obama dogged Trump. He deserved it. It was a classy way to get a Southside Chicago beatdown without throwing a blow. It was triumphant that the Pres pre-empted Trump's show the next night at what I know to be a pivotal moment. He interrupted the show and then arrived on CP(for my Caucasian friends, that's Colored People's) time to show that he can be gangsta if he has to. Tee hee hee. He delivered a clear concise message to the American public.
The Americans cheering outside the White House made me reflective. Was it really a moment to cheer? Would justice have been better served if bin Ladin had to meet a judge and jury? How were the families of the 9/11 victims going to feel? Hope or hype? Are we any safer? Are the troops going to come home any time soon? Only time will tell how things will play out. God bless America!!
Copyright by Pamela Cole Thorpe on May 2, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Political Roundup
Today, President Obama released his birth certificate to the public. Guess what? He is an American citizen! No $*!+, Sherlock! Of course he is. I mean when has a President being a legitimate American been questioned. Oh, I know! NEVER! The reason the BS surfaced, and yeah, I am going to say it, is because he is a man of color. American patriotism my behind. We have a long way to go and we can't be honest about it because there would need to be an admission of wrongdoing on some one's part. It ain't the colored folks either.
So what is the "Hair" going to say now? Oh I know, he is gonna question the legitimacy of the President's education. The man went to Harvard and graduated. Do his grades make a difference? Donald Trump is irritating with his pompous self. I believe he is a media whore seeking ratings for his show. I don't believe he has a desire to run for President but to blur the issues and hide the fact that there are no real options for Republican candidates. Let's face it! Do we really trust Trump with money? He's filed bankruptcy on three separate occasions. He's also been married that many times. Does that make him a viable option for President? Would it make him a better choice than Obama. Obama has been married once and there is no indication that he filed bankruptcy. Jus sayin! Let me just say this and I am done for the moment, Trump is gonna have a million skeletons in his closet that he ain't gonna want out there. We know he isn't gonna just put all his ish out there. That is the difference between being able to run as a Caucasian candidate and running as a person of color. If you aren't Caucasian, you better not a have a damn skeleton anywhere. It will be the source of your demise. We still can't do what they can. Not meant to offend, just the truth of the matter.
America has to realize that we really do need to stop looking at color and allowing superficial issues to keep us from looking at real issues i.e. education, defense, civil rights, etc. We need to stop being swayed by minor BS. Obama is not perfect but I have NEVER seen a President so disrespected and forced to deal with insignificant crap. It sickens me that so called patriotic individuals can dis him so easily and don't give him the respect of the position. Yadda, yadda, yadda!
So what do you all think about Obama's latest appointments? He is shaking up his Security team. The question is, will we all feel safer or confident in these appointments? CIA Director Leon Panetta has been selected to succeed Robert Gates as defense secretary. He also selected General David Patreus as the replacement for Panetta. Other appointments will follow. I don't always keep up with these appointments but I often think change is good. What do you think about it?
As much as I hate to journey here so early, I am gonna do it. What do you think will be the hot button issues for this upcoming election? My thoughts are this and I am sharing them here first. Immigration, abortion, and I wish I could say education but we don't seem to really put our money where our mouth is on that issue. So the third issue is probably related to finance and business. We will also see some discussion around same sex marriage. My final question is this.....(insert drum roll)....is Hillary gonna run?
Okay, that's it for now. Politics really is not my thing but as I've grown older, I have had to become more serious and really review the issues near and dear to me. I have to stay up on current events to have hot debates with my handsome hubby, too. Till next time, be blessed and be a blessing!!!!
Copyright by Pamela Cole Thorpe on April 27, 2011
So what is the "Hair" going to say now? Oh I know, he is gonna question the legitimacy of the President's education. The man went to Harvard and graduated. Do his grades make a difference? Donald Trump is irritating with his pompous self. I believe he is a media whore seeking ratings for his show. I don't believe he has a desire to run for President but to blur the issues and hide the fact that there are no real options for Republican candidates. Let's face it! Do we really trust Trump with money? He's filed bankruptcy on three separate occasions. He's also been married that many times. Does that make him a viable option for President? Would it make him a better choice than Obama. Obama has been married once and there is no indication that he filed bankruptcy. Jus sayin! Let me just say this and I am done for the moment, Trump is gonna have a million skeletons in his closet that he ain't gonna want out there. We know he isn't gonna just put all his ish out there. That is the difference between being able to run as a Caucasian candidate and running as a person of color. If you aren't Caucasian, you better not a have a damn skeleton anywhere. It will be the source of your demise. We still can't do what they can. Not meant to offend, just the truth of the matter.
America has to realize that we really do need to stop looking at color and allowing superficial issues to keep us from looking at real issues i.e. education, defense, civil rights, etc. We need to stop being swayed by minor BS. Obama is not perfect but I have NEVER seen a President so disrespected and forced to deal with insignificant crap. It sickens me that so called patriotic individuals can dis him so easily and don't give him the respect of the position. Yadda, yadda, yadda!
So what do you all think about Obama's latest appointments? He is shaking up his Security team. The question is, will we all feel safer or confident in these appointments? CIA Director Leon Panetta has been selected to succeed Robert Gates as defense secretary. He also selected General David Patreus as the replacement for Panetta. Other appointments will follow. I don't always keep up with these appointments but I often think change is good. What do you think about it?
As much as I hate to journey here so early, I am gonna do it. What do you think will be the hot button issues for this upcoming election? My thoughts are this and I am sharing them here first. Immigration, abortion, and I wish I could say education but we don't seem to really put our money where our mouth is on that issue. So the third issue is probably related to finance and business. We will also see some discussion around same sex marriage. My final question is this.....(insert drum roll)....is Hillary gonna run?
Okay, that's it for now. Politics really is not my thing but as I've grown older, I have had to become more serious and really review the issues near and dear to me. I have to stay up on current events to have hot debates with my handsome hubby, too. Till next time, be blessed and be a blessing!!!!
Copyright by Pamela Cole Thorpe on April 27, 2011
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
PSA
Today is Election Day! Big deal, right? Yeah, it is a big deal, especially if you are an African American or a woman. People fought, bled, and even died for you to exercise that right. You can't complain about the shituation if you don't let your own voice be heard. I understand the complacent attitudes...it takes way too long to see change in the political arena. I agree. What we need to be seeking is term limits for both Senate and Congress. I think twelve years is enough for all of them. It would alleviate a climate of not getting anything done. Ahh, but I digress...probably a future blog but surely, you are all sick of stopping progress for the sake of being contentious(i.e. the President is of a different political affiliation). So anyhoo, I am imploring you to go to the polls and let your voice be heard. We may not agree politically but it is still important. So that's it. I have no more to say! ROCK THE VOTE!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Diva Dialogue VI
I guess you can see I still have a lot of things floating around in my head and as usual, they are dying to escape. So here I go on yet another random number of things to think about. By the way, today I began my new gig. First day with a government agency = PAPERWORK, PAPERWORK, and more PAPERWORK! So basically, I can't tell you anything about what I'm really going to be doing. As is the case in any training class, you can quickly determine who is bright and whose light bulb is rather dim. You can also tell who the rule breakers are and who the rule followers are. That's all I'm going to say about that.
I have nothing to hide but I am extremely annoyed and defensive when my privacy is violated. Yes, I know that is completely random! I simply needed to get it off my chest. That said, those who seek, find. When you find, how do you proceed? I'm just curious! I have my own ideas but I'm asking for opinions.
Shout out to Mo'nique on winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Precious. Which brings me to my next subject. Do you watch her talk show which airs on BET? What do you think of it? I watch her upon occasion. I always check to see who will be on Mo'nique's show whether I am planning to watch or not. So naturally I noticed the lack of non-colored individuals on the guest list. I am wondering if she can continue to maintain a show by only having African American celebrities grace her stage. Robin Thicke is the only person I've seen who is not of the African American persuasion. His music has crossed over and appeals by and large to us. His wife, actress Paula Patton is African American. Now we all know that wouldn't happen if she was on any other network. I'm just saying!
Another topic that I have on my mind is Republican National Committee Chairman, Michael Steele. What do you think of him and his role in the RNC? Do you think he has what it takes to carry the party forward? Do you think he has the ability to draw more African Americans to engage in the Republican party? My belief is that he was selected to do just that. Unfortunately, his press is not all that great. He has made several mis-appointed statements and appears to be engaged in war over control of the GOP with Rush Limbaugh, who is quite vocal about his desire to see our President fail immensely. Steele is currently embroiled in a battle with his own party over his lavish spending habits. Some think he should step down because he is eroding confidence in the party at a time when they need to focus on mid-term elections. My personal thought is that he is trying really hard to make a name for himself. I think he has serious political aspirations but he does not have the charisma or mental savvy to garner the support needed for any of the offices that he's aspiring to. SN: I am not calling the man dumb. I just think he needs to mature and refocus. Do you agree or disagree?
Sarah Palin is another who could benefit from maturity. Education and exposure to people who think less like her would also be of benefit to her. Clearly, she is out to make a name for herself. Let's face it, anyone with any ounce of sense knows that allowing Sarah Palin to have any power would be a grave mistake. She is good for rallying a crowd and delivering a few choice soundbites but that is the extent of her ability. She has become the face of the Tea Party but if they want to move forward they are going to need a more intellectually stimulating leader who appeals to a broader spectrum of people. As you can tell by any of my previous posts, I am not a fan. I think the GOP made a huge error when they selected her as John McCain's running mate. They failed to do their homework and she diminished the chances of a GOP victory.
Honestly, both parties need to work on attracting different groups of people to their side. Palin was to appeal to the women like Michael Steele was to appeal to African Americans. Neither was effective. Politicians need to learn to really represent their constituents. we as voters, need to demand this. We can't be complacent. America needs change in a lot of areas. We need to improve the way that we educate our children and care for our elderly. We need financial reform. We need to find ways to do work cheaper so that we can stop sending our work out to third world countries. We need to take better care of our poor and homeless. Yes, we have a responsibility to be neighborly and charitable but my mama taught me that charity begins at home. We are not doing so well taking care of home. We need to find a way to deal with immigration in a real and viable way. We can't allow anything that looks like racial profiling to occur. America can't handle it any other way. There are always those who feel entitled and more privileged than others and equity tends to go out the window. If you aren't a minority, this probably is not your reality. I could go on but this is a start. We can't allow Senate or Congress to say "NO!" just to further their party's interests. We have to demand and require them to vote the agendas that further the people they represent. I am a firm believer that no politician should be able to make a lifetime career out of that position. I think I mentioned the same thing about Supreme Court Justices. 12 years maximum for every one of them and goodness can we please set some age limits.
Okay that is it. I don't plan to do another Diva Dialogue for a bit. I could be wrong! Bear with me! I am working through a parenting blog and a blog on the damage done in the church as well as jealousy. I have a friendship blog in my head too. Soooo, great things ahead. For now, I gotta go. I gotta get up in the morning cause I gotta J-O-B! Plus, I need to work out too. Til next time, smile because on your worst day, it is better than someone else's best day. If you can't smile, then pray! Peace and love!
Copyright April 27, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
I have nothing to hide but I am extremely annoyed and defensive when my privacy is violated. Yes, I know that is completely random! I simply needed to get it off my chest. That said, those who seek, find. When you find, how do you proceed? I'm just curious! I have my own ideas but I'm asking for opinions.
Shout out to Mo'nique on winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Precious. Which brings me to my next subject. Do you watch her talk show which airs on BET? What do you think of it? I watch her upon occasion. I always check to see who will be on Mo'nique's show whether I am planning to watch or not. So naturally I noticed the lack of non-colored individuals on the guest list. I am wondering if she can continue to maintain a show by only having African American celebrities grace her stage. Robin Thicke is the only person I've seen who is not of the African American persuasion. His music has crossed over and appeals by and large to us. His wife, actress Paula Patton is African American. Now we all know that wouldn't happen if she was on any other network. I'm just saying!
Another topic that I have on my mind is Republican National Committee Chairman, Michael Steele. What do you think of him and his role in the RNC? Do you think he has what it takes to carry the party forward? Do you think he has the ability to draw more African Americans to engage in the Republican party? My belief is that he was selected to do just that. Unfortunately, his press is not all that great. He has made several mis-appointed statements and appears to be engaged in war over control of the GOP with Rush Limbaugh, who is quite vocal about his desire to see our President fail immensely. Steele is currently embroiled in a battle with his own party over his lavish spending habits. Some think he should step down because he is eroding confidence in the party at a time when they need to focus on mid-term elections. My personal thought is that he is trying really hard to make a name for himself. I think he has serious political aspirations but he does not have the charisma or mental savvy to garner the support needed for any of the offices that he's aspiring to. SN: I am not calling the man dumb. I just think he needs to mature and refocus. Do you agree or disagree?
Sarah Palin is another who could benefit from maturity. Education and exposure to people who think less like her would also be of benefit to her. Clearly, she is out to make a name for herself. Let's face it, anyone with any ounce of sense knows that allowing Sarah Palin to have any power would be a grave mistake. She is good for rallying a crowd and delivering a few choice soundbites but that is the extent of her ability. She has become the face of the Tea Party but if they want to move forward they are going to need a more intellectually stimulating leader who appeals to a broader spectrum of people. As you can tell by any of my previous posts, I am not a fan. I think the GOP made a huge error when they selected her as John McCain's running mate. They failed to do their homework and she diminished the chances of a GOP victory.
Honestly, both parties need to work on attracting different groups of people to their side. Palin was to appeal to the women like Michael Steele was to appeal to African Americans. Neither was effective. Politicians need to learn to really represent their constituents. we as voters, need to demand this. We can't be complacent. America needs change in a lot of areas. We need to improve the way that we educate our children and care for our elderly. We need financial reform. We need to find ways to do work cheaper so that we can stop sending our work out to third world countries. We need to take better care of our poor and homeless. Yes, we have a responsibility to be neighborly and charitable but my mama taught me that charity begins at home. We are not doing so well taking care of home. We need to find a way to deal with immigration in a real and viable way. We can't allow anything that looks like racial profiling to occur. America can't handle it any other way. There are always those who feel entitled and more privileged than others and equity tends to go out the window. If you aren't a minority, this probably is not your reality. I could go on but this is a start. We can't allow Senate or Congress to say "NO!" just to further their party's interests. We have to demand and require them to vote the agendas that further the people they represent. I am a firm believer that no politician should be able to make a lifetime career out of that position. I think I mentioned the same thing about Supreme Court Justices. 12 years maximum for every one of them and goodness can we please set some age limits.
Okay that is it. I don't plan to do another Diva Dialogue for a bit. I could be wrong! Bear with me! I am working through a parenting blog and a blog on the damage done in the church as well as jealousy. I have a friendship blog in my head too. Soooo, great things ahead. For now, I gotta go. I gotta get up in the morning cause I gotta J-O-B! Plus, I need to work out too. Til next time, smile because on your worst day, it is better than someone else's best day. If you can't smile, then pray! Peace and love!
Copyright April 27, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Friday, April 16, 2010
The Tea Party Simplified
So I was a rather ambivalent individual when it came to politics. Then Barack Obama decided to run for President of the United States and all of a sudden, I was energized and had a renewed sense of political responsibility. It was not because Obama promised change but because he, an African American man, had his shit together enough to organize and handle a viable political race. I was engaged because I never thought that that would happen in my life time. At that point, I had no idea who I would support but no matter the choice, I, like many of my usually enthusiastic friends, was now paying attention to the issues. Well what a surprise when Obama was victorious. Like most Americans, I felt change would be a great thing. It was refreshing to see college students, Latinos, and people who usually were not engaged in the political process come alive and take interest in the political events.
Well here we are a little over a year later and things are well sorta crazy. Sarah Palin's face is popping up on my television nightly and honestly, she is not a face I want to see. I found her to be a pandering unintelligent woman the GOP sought out to give John McCain more electability. Oops, big mistake! They failed to do their research and she cost him the election. Remember, my blog, my opinion. I digress. We keep seeing Palin as all these Tea Party demonstrations pop up in various cities around the US. Well I honestly had no idea what the heck they really stood for so I guessed, neither did most of you. I could be wrong but bear with me as I attempt to educate myself and you in the process. Here is what I found, maybe it'll help us all better understand their purpose.
Last year on April 15th 2009, millions of hardworking Americans stood in unison in over 800 protests around the country.
These protests, which became known as the Tax Day Tea Party, expressed real concerns against reckless government spending and spawned millions of Americans to get involved in their local Tea Parties which today are holding elected officials accountable.
The name "Tea Party" is a reference to the Boston Tea Party, whose principal aim was to protest taxation without representation. Tea Party protests have sought to evoke images, slogans and themes from the American Revolution, such as tri-corner hats and "Don't Tread on Me" flags. The letters T-E-A have been used by some protesters to form the acronym "Taxed Enough Already". The theme of the Boston Tea Party, an iconic event of American history, has long been used by anti-tax protesters with libertarian and conservative viewpoints. It was part of Tax Day protests held throughout the 1990s and earlier. The libertarian theme of the "tea party" protest was previously used by Republican Congressman Ron Paul and his supporters as a fundraising event during the primaries of the 2008 presidential campaign to emphasize Paul's fiscal conservatism, which they later claimed laid the groundwork for the modern-day Tea Party movement. As home mortgage foreclosures increased, and details of the 2009 stimulus bill became known, including the provision for the AIG executive bonuses, organized protests began to emerge.
Tea Party Nation (or TPN) is a user-driven group of like-minded people who desire our God given Individual Freedoms which were written out by the Founding Fathers. We believe in Limited Government, Free Speech, the 2nd Amendment, our Military, Secure Borders and our Country!
Well that is it. There wasn't much info out there but I wanted a concise definition so I could judge the motives from an educated point of view. Whenever I hear the words "Founding Fathers" I cringe. I immediately think pre-Civil Rights. Largely I see Caucasian Americans, typically males who make more money than average Americans and they are not particularly happy with the way America is changing. They are living the American Dream but they don't support diversity and they believe in the good ole boy networks. Most have never struggled a day in their life and they don't care about or have any identity with those who have. There are women involved in the movement, too. There are even African Americans but they a really small minority. My personal take is that if I could take a sample of them they'd be from rural suburban areas which are relatively homogeneous in make up. They probably have not moved very much and they probably have no friends of color. I am sure they possess guns. They will want nothing to do with health care, immigration, or anything that would help the the masses. Disclaimer--I do believe we need a plan to deal with illegal immigrants and a way to prevent an increase in illegal individuals entering the country. So what are your thoughts? Do you see the Tea Party having a real impact on politics or does it just give voice to subliminal hatred and nonacceptance? Inquiring minds want to know. Till next time, have a great weekend! Ciao!
Copyright April 16, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Well here we are a little over a year later and things are well sorta crazy. Sarah Palin's face is popping up on my television nightly and honestly, she is not a face I want to see. I found her to be a pandering unintelligent woman the GOP sought out to give John McCain more electability. Oops, big mistake! They failed to do their research and she cost him the election. Remember, my blog, my opinion. I digress. We keep seeing Palin as all these Tea Party demonstrations pop up in various cities around the US. Well I honestly had no idea what the heck they really stood for so I guessed, neither did most of you. I could be wrong but bear with me as I attempt to educate myself and you in the process. Here is what I found, maybe it'll help us all better understand their purpose.
Last year on April 15th 2009, millions of hardworking Americans stood in unison in over 800 protests around the country.
These protests, which became known as the Tax Day Tea Party, expressed real concerns against reckless government spending and spawned millions of Americans to get involved in their local Tea Parties which today are holding elected officials accountable.
The name "Tea Party" is a reference to the Boston Tea Party, whose principal aim was to protest taxation without representation. Tea Party protests have sought to evoke images, slogans and themes from the American Revolution, such as tri-corner hats and "Don't Tread on Me" flags. The letters T-E-A have been used by some protesters to form the acronym "Taxed Enough Already". The theme of the Boston Tea Party, an iconic event of American history, has long been used by anti-tax protesters with libertarian and conservative viewpoints. It was part of Tax Day protests held throughout the 1990s and earlier. The libertarian theme of the "tea party" protest was previously used by Republican Congressman Ron Paul and his supporters as a fundraising event during the primaries of the 2008 presidential campaign to emphasize Paul's fiscal conservatism, which they later claimed laid the groundwork for the modern-day Tea Party movement. As home mortgage foreclosures increased, and details of the 2009 stimulus bill became known, including the provision for the AIG executive bonuses, organized protests began to emerge.
Tea Party Nation (or TPN) is a user-driven group of like-minded people who desire our God given Individual Freedoms which were written out by the Founding Fathers. We believe in Limited Government, Free Speech, the 2nd Amendment, our Military, Secure Borders and our Country!
Well that is it. There wasn't much info out there but I wanted a concise definition so I could judge the motives from an educated point of view. Whenever I hear the words "Founding Fathers" I cringe. I immediately think pre-Civil Rights. Largely I see Caucasian Americans, typically males who make more money than average Americans and they are not particularly happy with the way America is changing. They are living the American Dream but they don't support diversity and they believe in the good ole boy networks. Most have never struggled a day in their life and they don't care about or have any identity with those who have. There are women involved in the movement, too. There are even African Americans but they a really small minority. My personal take is that if I could take a sample of them they'd be from rural suburban areas which are relatively homogeneous in make up. They probably have not moved very much and they probably have no friends of color. I am sure they possess guns. They will want nothing to do with health care, immigration, or anything that would help the the masses. Disclaimer--I do believe we need a plan to deal with illegal immigrants and a way to prevent an increase in illegal individuals entering the country. So what are your thoughts? Do you see the Tea Party having a real impact on politics or does it just give voice to subliminal hatred and nonacceptance? Inquiring minds want to know. Till next time, have a great weekend! Ciao!
Copyright April 16, 2010 by Pamela Cole Thorpe
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
