Race Relations; Reflections, Realizations, Reactions, and Rejections
copyright © 2008 Betsy L. Angert. BeThink.org
"Nothing is more certainly written in the book of fate than that these people are to be free.
Nor is it less certain that the two races, equally free, cannot live in the same government.
Nature, habit, opinion has drawn indelible lines of distinction between them."
~ Thomas Jefferson (Autobiography, 1821)
It was a Saturday morning, late in June. The year was 2008. In the background, radio broadcaster, Scott Simon could be heard. The host of Weekend Edition offered his Reflections on Race and the Presidential Election. Alexander listened halfheartedly. It was not that he was not interested in the topic; he is and he was. Alex was distracted. The gentleman glanced over at Donna, a young Jamaican woman he knows so well. Donna's skin is as Black as pitch coal and as rich as sweet crude. She gracefully moves across the room. He thinks of how he loves the way her hips sway to and fro. Her voluptuous bosom fills the full cup of her brassiere. As she bends down to feed his ailing cousin Anna, Alex reflects on how lovely the dark skinned woman is. His sentiment is not sexual in nature. Alexander is analytical.
As Alex watches the woman stir, he contemplates human nature. Recent research fascinates the senior fellow. For years, Alexander wondered what was the attraction to female breasts and beauty. He recalled the article he reviewed days earlier, What Women Want (Maybe.) Alexander marveled as he appraised the study. Rapt by the results as reported, “Looking at a naked man walking on the beach is about as exciting as looking at landscapes,” Alexander wonders of women, men, and how they relate. How much of what occurs between the sexes is biological? Are two-legged mammals acculturated? Do we acquire opinions that then become habits? Perhaps, had Alex's attention been elsewhere he would have heard the words Scott Simon uttered as they drifted through the air. Alexander might have stopped and sputtered as Journalist Simon mused, "How many people can there be who truly don't know that Senator Obama is black - or care."
Alexander definitely knows Presidential hopeful Obama is African-American; and yes, he does care. Alex would never express his anxiety as blatantly as thousands have. Nor would he actually join a fellowship of known fanatics. This white man, genteel in nature, cannot imagine why extremists react as they do. For Alex, racial discrimination is not a source of pride. He wonders if that is why much intolerance is hidden, neatly tucked away in the Internet.
Hate Groups' Newest Target
White Supremacists Report an Increase in Visits to Their Web Sites
By Eli Saslow
Washington Post
Sunday, June 22, 2008; A06Sen. Barack Obama's historic victory in the Democratic primaries, celebrated in America and across much of the world as a symbol of racial progress and cultural unity, has also sparked an increase in racist and white supremacist activity, mainly on the Internet, according to leaders of hate groups and the organizations that track them.
Neo-Nazi, skinhead, and segregationist groups have reported gains in numbers of visitors to their Web sites and in membership since the senator from Illinois secured the Democratic nomination June 3. His success has aroused a community of racists, experts said, concerned by the possibility of the country's first black president.
"I haven't seen this much anger in a long, long time," said Billy Roper, a 36-year-old who runs a group called White Revolution in Russellville, Ark. "Nothing has awakened normally complacent white Americans more than the prospect of America having an overtly nonwhite president." . . .
"The truth is, we're finding an explosion in these kinds of hateful sentiments on the Net, and it's a growing problem," said Deborah Lauter, civil rights director for the Anti-Defamation League, which monitors hate group activity. "There are probably thousands of Web sites that do this now. I couldn't even tell you how many are out there because it's growing so fast."
Granted, extremists do not represent the Grand Old Party, John McCain, or Alexander. Nonetheless, Alex knows the rise in racist rhetoric demonstrates many care about the undeniable. Our potential President is a Black man. Alexander admits, he is not surprised by the speed with which the trend towards intolerance increased once Barack Obama become the presumptive nominee. The lovely mild-mannered man recalls, Senator Obama was placed under the protection of the Secret Service Agency earlier than any Presidential aspirant had been. This action, this election is unprecedented.
Alexander recalls the day he read the accounts in the newspaper; the United States Senator from Illinois began his bid for the Oval Office and almost immediately received threats on his life. It was obvious, Barack Obama and his family were not safe. Excessive concern for the candidate's race was expressed. Bullies observed Barack Obama is Black, and they did not like that.
Journalist Scott Simon might ruminate; these persons play on the fringe. Fanatics are peripheral to the population. However, the more moderate man, Alexander has watched as generations of white people exerted extreme power over Black people. He was also well aware of how Caucasians hid the emotions that had an effect on their every exchange. Alexander quietly avows on rare occasions, he too does not reveal what he truly feels when in the company of a person of color.
His relationship with Donna may illustrate, the illusive nature of race relations in America. The two are friendly; they spend much time together. However, neither feels particularly close to the other. Each understands they are employer and employee. Encounters occur for there is a need, physical, financial, practical, and personal only in the sense that when two people come together they cannot help but talk. Still, a genuine emotional connection is forever elusive. Neither wishes to create what is not comfortable.
Perhaps, the relationship that exists between Alexander and Donna explains why, the seventeen (17) million persons voted for Barack Obama in the primaries, may not if the realities of racism are emphasized before the general election. Blacks and whites can come together when the commitment is tentative, but would pinkish persons want their daughters to marry someone that looks like Senator Obama. Would Anglo Americans wish to place a Black man and his African-American family in the White House. Could it be that countless who cast a ballot for Barack Obama during the primaries, struggle with the reality that he might become their President and ever so powerful.
Alexander asserts people can be polite when what they perceive to be a potential threat is less than pervasive. However, Alex, who with great reluctance, voted for Barack Obama early in the election season, understands for possibly millions of American citizens, the idea of a Black man as President of the United States is perilous.
He need only consider his own inner turmoil. Alex understands what apparently escapes Mister Simon; people care what a color a person is. The possibility that our President may be a Black is reason for concern. Bethany grasps what her cousin continually contemplates. She sees and hears that Alexander relates to the fear others express outwardly. He is just a bit more refined when he articulates his distress. A Black man, Barack Obama must not become President of the country he loves. Alexander is not ready for such a radical transformation. He often muses, "Why change?" The man who has made much of his life says with a sigh, "What we have here in America is good." He does not trust that an African-American will have his interests at heart.
Alexander battles with what may become a brutal truth, a Black man might lead the nation, indeed, the world! Animated and with much apprehension and angst, Alex's wife Mary recounts what she says many assert. "Barack Obama has an army." "I hear it is 2500 strong; maybe it was 25000," Mary storms. "You know they are angry people." She continues, "You heard what Michele Obama said did you not?" Energized by her own expertise Mary marvels and asks her audience to entertain; "The Obama's live in a big house. They have white servants. Can you imagine that?" .Implied in her statements, is what Mary says is conventional wisdom. "Those people are vengeful." She reluctantly admits, perhaps, Americans have not treated Senator Obama's ancestors well. Nor have our contemporary Caucasian countrymen been kind to people of color. She then adds, "You know he is Muslim and has ties to terrorist."
Bethany wonders and asks aloud, "Where did you read this?" Mary happily responds, confident her sources are credible, "I read it on the Internet." The younger cousin inquires might Mary share her references. Bethany acquaints Mary with what she "knows" to be true. However, Mary does not hear her. The want for other information wanes, if it was ever really there.
Mary, as her husband Alexander, is a registered Democrat. Neither ever misses a vote. For decades, Mary proudly worked at her local election polls. From dawn until long after dusk she monitors what occurs within her precinct.
Alex does not acknowledge that he agrees with Mary. Nor does he offer disagreement. He merely remains absorbed in all that disturbs him personally.
For months Alex wrestled with the fact that as admirable as the candidate's education might be, as calm as the demeanor of the aspirant is, even when under fire, Barack Obama is Black. While Alex may wish to think of himself as colorblind and open-minded, he cannot help but question Barack Obama's qualifications. Frequently, in conversation, Alex couches his concern. "The man does not have the necessary experience." However, on occasion, and only when in the company of Bethany, a relative who he fondly thinks of as a very good friend, Alex admits he is biased.
He has confessed; it is difficult for him to plead guilty to this truth even to himself. Alex recognizes he is intolerant of those whose skin is dark. He fears Black persons he encounters on the street. He suspects, those whose cocoa brown complexion glistens in the light, engage in criminal activity. Perchance, had Alexander harkened to the words Scott Simon offered days earlier he would have engaged in a conversation in that moment. He had many thoughts on the topic. However, when the Journalist spoke Alexander was absorbed elsewhere. He pondered, who and what is Donna to him.
Alexander says he does not think of Donna as a servant. Yet, he recognizes she is an economic slave. In an abstract way, he is her master.
Donna is an authentic person, equal to Alex in every way, except for the fact that she is not. The wondrous white man may never wish to divulge as three (3) in ten (10) Americans did. He is biased. In a very recent Washington Post – ABC News poll, people acknowledged a prejudice. Alexander may be inclined to think the Black women with who he engages, or any person of color, is perhaps less profound than a Caucasian certainly is. For this carefree chap, who openly chats with many a Black person, the race of an individual creates an impression, although he appreciates this is often unconscious.
Alexander assumes, since he frequently converses with people whose epidermis is the color of bittersweet chocolate he knows what it means to be an African-American, Jamaican, Haitian, or just dark in skin tone. While he may honor an individual Black person who he associates with, none of the labels Alex would apply to this group of people as a whole is good. Much as he tries to be tempered when he associates with people purplish-brown in hue, some would say Alexander is a bigot, a well-camouflaged racist.
Most may not see the subtleties of Alexander's prejudice. Likely, he does not realize how deep his predispositions are. Alexander does not think of himself as intolerant. Perchance, he would be among the fifty-three percent in the Washington Post – ABC News survey who presume race relations in America are superior.
In truth, Alex is a bit more realistic. He realizes there are problems. He has said himself, prejudice is prevalent. However, he might quickly add, skin color does not cloud his vision. Alex believes he is merely selective in his associations. Perchance, he adopted his parents' opinions, or habits. Alex is not naïve enough to think nature keeps the races separate and unequal. He only knows what is and always was, at least as long as he recalls.
The self-proclaimed aware and astute fellow believes there are a few special persons, no matter the skin color. He just happens to associate more with those fair of face. That does not mean he excludes African-Americans from his life.
The ones that once worked for him when he owned his own business were wonderful men . . . as far as he could tell. They were polite. The delivery drivers did their work. These burly men, brown as the bark on a weathered oak tree, never complained. There was Natalie, and Josephine; they nursed his mother to health. Certainly, Donna is a delight.
Donna knows her place. She fills a necessary space in Alexander and Anna's life. The purplish hue cast by the beautiful brown complexion of this woman ensures that she will never be seen or treated as a peer, at least not by the cousins who employ her. When the white man and woman gaze upon Donna, they forever see her as a Black person. Thankfully, they say, she is not an African-American. Those people cannot be trusted.
"Just ask her," Alex says to his very close "friend" Bethany. "Donna will tell you." "American Blacks are lazy," he continues. "They do drugs." Donna says, "It is true. Those Black people born in this country just collect welfare." She speaks of her son, Christopher. "Look at him; he was awarded a full scholarship." Beaming with pride, the Health Care Aide reminds everyone in the room, when Christopher was a Senior in High School, he was one of three, nationwide selected to attend a prestigious college. Her son, she boasts, is motivated. He is a scholar, not like those "Black boys" native to America.
Alexander listens and nods. Donna affirms his opinions are not racist. He has reason to believe as he does. "Did you hear what Donna said," he asks his companion. "See. She knows." Exasperated and in a desire to prove his point, Alex points to Donna and reminds his confidant, "She is a woman of color!"
The conversation began innocently enough. Alexander wanted to explain why he could not in good conscious cast a ballot for Barack Obama. The older white man had done his duty in the primaries. Perhaps, his vote for Senator Obama affirmed he is not a bigot. Alexander actually did vote for the Senator from Illinois in the Spring of the year. He hesitantly speaks of how he had to.
The World War II veteran had no other choice. No, he did not approve of Barack Obama then. Nor does he condone crass humor as was exhibited at the Texas Republican Convention just days before Scott Simon made his comment.
Mr. Alcox said he made 12 of the pins after seeing a comic strip where Barack Obama was standing in front of a sign saying “The White House,” with the building behind him. Mr. Obama is depicted thinking, “That’s the first thing we’ll change.” . . .The offending pin stated: “If Obama is president . . . Will we still call it the White House?” . . .
“Obviously, it’s been offensive to people. It was not meant to be that way. We’re into humor - not racism,” Mr. Alcox said.
Regardless of the intent, many were offended. Bigotry only begets belly laughs from other bigots. The object of intolerance, if given the opportunity can speak to what eludes the prejudice. However, in a nation where an esteemed broadcaster expresses a wishful belief as truth, no one "cares" what color Barack Obama, a Black man is, few take the time to probe beyond what they think correct. Americans are not colorblind as they claim to be. They are colormute and hence, frequently insensitive. On the rare occasion when Blacks and Caucasians speak of racism much is resolved, empathy expands.
(Mr. Alcox) said after having a conversation with a black man who called him about the blog post, he came to understand more about the nerve he had hit.
Sadly, prior to this incident it seems the vendor did as Alexander does. While cordial and conversant with people of every color, bias against those of color is not typically, if ever the topic. He did discuss the elections with Donna. He even asked her what she thought of Barack Obama. "You remember Bethany. Donna thinks Black Americans are worthless."
That is why Alexander was able to do as he did in good conscience. Earlier in the year, Alex went to the polls as a good citizen does and was handed a Democratic ballot. He is a registered Democrat; however, only in the primaries does he usually vote for someone in his Party.
Before, the presumptive Presidential aspirants were assured, Alex was certain he would have, voted for Mitt Romney. He is white . . . (Did he say that aloud) highly educated; he comes from good stock. His father and he were successful Governors. More importantly, each accrued ample wealth. Alexander is a very affluent man, self-made. He admires such qualities, that is unless the erudite, esteemed man, or woman is Black, although, Alex is careful never to say that directly, not even when with Bethany. He is embarrassed by his bigotry.
At times, he does softly state what he hopes will remain a secret. He does not wish for others to know what he is unwilling to acknowledge to himself. Still, almost inaudibly he has told Bethany. He has little tolerance for people whose complexions are dark. Alexander hopes he can trust his truest thoughts and feelings with his cousin and best friend Bethany. History tells him, with her, he is safe. The relationship is one of reciprocal reverence. Bethany shares her heart, soul, and all her stories with Alex. The two learn of what they never imagined when together.
They also share a common bond, many in fact. Most significant in this election season, Alex and Bethany each harbored much disdain for Hillary Clinton. Neither struggle with the idea of a woman President. It was only that woman! Bethany understands why Alex did not vote for the New York Senator. "Bobby,' as she likes to be called, could not consider the former First Lady either.
However, Bobby remains unconvinced that Alexander would chose to cast a ballot for Barack Obama when it counts. She recalls the day Alexander quietly revealed, "Maybe I am prejudice." Bethany had helped Alex to realize what he never considered before. As a child, she, who is also pinkish in color, was raised with a Black family as much as her own. She has never felt as though she was Caucasian. This feminine Anglo American notices what many white persons do not, she is intensely cognizant of color. Bobby, unlike countless whose skin is light is very aware of what is whispered to her. What may not mean much to those who think themselves colorblind
When with a white acquaintance Bobby will feel a tug on her arm. "Let us cross the street," the friend says suddenly. Bobby wonders; why might her colleague seem so distraught. She looks ahead and the answer is revealed. A group of Black men appeared up the avenue.
Bethany hears the hushed tones. In a casual conversation, when a person of a particular color is identified, clarification is also offered. "He or she is Black you know." This classification is meant to explain why that individual might think, say, do, feel, or be as he or she is.
A brilliant African-American is not merely a gifted and talented artist, academic, athlete, or author. He or she is "Negro" first. Then, the deftness is discussed. "Actually," the inference is, "the fact that this individual is a person of color makes them more exceptional."
Most of us recall a cavalier comment offered by a prominent, practiced politician little more than a year ago. Delaware Senator, and former Presidential spirant, said of his friend, Barack Obama, "I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy," Biden said. "I mean, that's a storybook, man." Of, course the remark was followed by an apology. "I really regret that some have taken totally out of context my use of the world “clean.” The sorrowful Senator explained. "My mother has an expression: clean as a whistle, sharp as a tack." Neither the regret, nor revelation, would lessen the blow of bigotry. If a person is Black, he or she may bow and accept what has become too familiar. An Anglo may never notice such remarks. Extremely offensive evaluations make sense when they are all you have ever heard.
Barbara Trepagnier, Sociology Professor at Texas State University-San Marcos has written much on the subject of Silent Racism. She speaks of the culture of consciousness that evades many white Americans. Ms Trepagnier, on the topic of careless commentary reflected on another incident. She was reminded of Trent Lott and the callous statement he offered at former segregationist Strom Thurmond's 100th birthday celebration. Then two, the orator offered a defense. The Sociologist declared . . .
“I argue when we say things off the cuff, that’s what we really mean,” Trepagnier said. “His comments weren’t taken out of context.”Her book contends that “silent racism” fosters routine actions not recognized by an individual as racist, but upholds the status quo.
Trepagnier says that this form of superiority remains prevalent in American society, and is a major reason African-Americans continue to struggle. Blacks are outperformed by their white counterparts in most social demographics, including factors such as education, employment, and income. She says that whites that deny the existence of racism or dismiss it as unimportant are often protecting white privilege.
Trepagnier says that some whites become detached from the race issue while others are so concerned with it that they become apprehensive about it, avoiding even the mention of the topic. In both cases, this passive stance silently provides the racist actions of others an endorsement, or worse, encouragement.
Alexander's confidant Bethany does not negate what is too obvious to her. Nor does she mindlessly wish to advance such postures. Bobby shares her stories and feelings with Alex, if only to further his awareness.
When Bethany is accompanied on a dinner date, she feels the stares when her cohort is a man of color. The conversation with a server differs dependent on her company. People at the next table are more likely to engage the couple when Bobby is with a white man. When in a restaurant of quality, Bethany observes if there are many or any Black persons about, they are often the hired help. Rarely is the clientele shades of purplish brown or Black in hue. Mostly, people are light; skin tones are parchment in color.
When in the mall together, strolling down the street, in the bank, or other place of business, Bobby and Alex see numerous African-Americans. Contrary to Scott Simon's contention, each of them cares to recognize these persons are Black.
Alex intentionally associates with people of color. He hopes to work through the habitual bigotry that bothers him. Bethany also engages. She is aware her personal history shades her sense. Black people are for her beautiful, inside and out.
The sensitive gentleman, Alexander, truly feels for those who are not treated as well as he is. Bobby yearns to build bridges. For so long she felt alone in her desire to end discrimination. Frustration with a colormute community consumed her. The two think of what it might mean to those whose skin is ebony in color, black as coal, coffee brown, or cinnamon spice, if Barack Obama becomes President. What will it mean to Anglos such as Bobby or Alex if Barack Obama becomes the world's leader.
Millions may think the possibility is beautiful. "I am Black and I am proud." A few might be as Bethany, whose skin may be a sweet pink, but whose soul was joyous soaked in a world of brilliantly rich color. Millions could be ready to create the change that was once unimaginable. For billions this possibility is still but a dream, or a nightmare. Alexander, who has witnessed much history doubts that anyone is indifferent.
Much is unspoken. More is said in a subtle manner. Reflections on race relations in America are approached and avoided. People worldwide care and ponder the color of Presidential hopeful Barack Obama. They just may not chatter freely or have the forum Commentator Scott Simon does. If we are ever to move beyond bigotry perhaps, we must acknowledge, what is "politically more injurious" is not the insinuation of racism; it is the reality. Mister Simon, might I suggest, people care about the color of a Presidential candidates skin.
Post Script . . .
Dearest Scott Simon . . .
While many may believe it is disingenuous for Barack Obama to claim the funds raised for his campaign will fight racism in America, it is no more sincere to deny the truth that racial discrimination flourishes. Might people also consider Senator Obama and others who fear what will be in this campaign season feel they have reason to-reaction to a historical habit they know too well. I believe, if we are to cure the ills associated with skin color, we must empathically speak to what is pervasive and persistent on this planet.
People embrace habits and opinions as though they are facts of nature. We all do this, whether we are Black, white, brown, red, yellow, olive, or pink. Republicans, Democrats, and Independents are not exempt. Greens, I shutter to say, are also two-legged creatures trapped in a prison they think rational and reasonable. Perchance, it is time for humans to transform. I wish to support a campaign slogan I believe is strongly needed, "Let change begin with me."
References, Reflections, Race Relations . . .
Posted by Betsy L. Angert on June 26, 2008 at 01:00 PM in Americana, Being Black in America, Black History, Past/Present, Elections, Racial Discrimination | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack
Let Them Eat Oil
copyright © 2008 Betsy L. Angert. BeThink.org
In a nation, where appeasement is condemned, Americans are anxious. The people have been pacified for so long they can no longer recall what it means to be other than indulged. On June 6, 2008, Congresspersons, uncomfortable with the notion that they might have to use the rod, concluded, for now, it is better to spoil the already pampered Americans. Lawmakers said, as they have so often, "Let them eat oil!" After all, the people love petroleum.
Rather than rescind policies that contribute to global warming, or the related scarcity of food and water Legislators declared defeat. Hope for change was put off for the future, just as it was one score and ten years ago. Now, nearly a decade into the twenty-first century, the United States Congress concluded a bipartisan Bill, intended to control climate conditions must die. The hope was postponed, again. The dream differed until 2009.
Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid, Democrat of Nevada, cautioned climate change is “the most important issue facing the world today.” However, apparently, it is not imperative enough to counter the cries of despair heard from the American people. Citizens in this country think cash in hand counts for more than the health of the planet.
The public is easily able to dismiss evidence; Mother Earth is in trouble. Extinction threatens every species. Even humans are at risk. Pollutants fill the air that men, women, and children breath. Poison is found in the rivers and stream. Toxins travel through the ecosystem. There are consequences to what we do. Global warming is but a warning, one not heeded by Americans who prefer to remain sheltered from talk of environmental storms.
Co-authors of the measure designed to limit heat-trapping gases, California Democrat, Senator Barbara Boxer, Senator John W. Warner, Republican of Virginia, and Senator Joseph I. Lieberman, independent of Connecticut envision the demise of the Bill was a win. The three expressed a shared joy. Perchance lawmakers are closer to an agreement. Might it be that Legislators are more unified in an attempt to appease Americans. The Senate was just shy of consensus.
Conventional wisdom states, "There is time." The world can wait. Evidence does not suggest a need to act immediately. Next year will be better. In actuality, politicians did just as the people prefer. Government officials did not ask the people to forego creature comforts. Regulations on industry were not increased.
While the people insist someone must pay for the drastic rise in petroleum prices, most suspect, ultimately, the cost will be passed on to the common folk.
Perchance, that is why Congress was willing to probe profit margins. The people wanted an explanation; why do they pay exorbitant prices at the pump. It mattered not that the expectation proved to be the reality. When tycoons who produce Texas tea were asked of the high cost of fuel, they sang the same old song. What was important is the sense the people had after the hearing. They had tried to make the big bosses accountable. The public demands little, insists on less. Yet, as coddled children who covet a toy just out of reach, they protest loudly.
Members of Congress, the President of the United States, and Oil Executives understand this. Each has perfected the art of appeasement. Give the people what they please. Then positions and profits will remain secure. Explanations and examinations reassure the masses and best of all for those comfortable and cozy in millions of cars nothing changes. Certainly, circumstances dictate all must remain the same, and while few admit it, all are pleased.
The executives firmly insisted that global market forces beyond their control were to blame for high prices. “As repetitive and uninteresting as it may sound, the fundamental laws of supply and demand are at work,” said John Hofmeister, the president of Shell Oil Company.(Of course, it was repetitive and uninteresting: Mr. Hofmeister read the same line in his testimony the day before.)
The executives politely but just as firmly insisted that Congress should focus its efforts on allowing more drilling and exploration for domestic oil — in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, offshore in the Atlantic and Pacific, and in the eastern Gulf of Mexico. They insisted that they were investing heavily in search of new oil supplies.
And they strongly warned against other measures: any new tax on profits would put American companies at a disadvantage and only further decrease oil supply; a temporary suspension of the federal gas tax would increase demand and only raise prices more; lawsuits against foreign nations would do nothing to lower prices.
The public may not trust the moneyed moguls; nor do they respect the Representatives. Nonetheless, the people are silently satisfied. Few if any wish to give up the freedom they feel as they drive down the road alone, or with one special passenger. Convenience is comfortable. The people do not wish to pay the price for alternative energy. The actual cost may not frighten Americans; the idea that they may need to forfeit a familiar lifestyle terrifies the average citizen.
Months ago, when gas was relatively cheap, cars barely crawled on clogged highways. Yet, few did more than grumble. People were essentially cozy cocooned in snug Sports Utility Vehicles, mini-vans, sedans, coupes, and cute convertibles. Children were pleasantly preoccupied. Digital Video Discs entertained the young and other occupants as they lounged in leather seats. Drivers pounded out tunes on the dashboard or punched cellular telephone keyboards. Travel was a pleasure.
Some treasured the hours spent on the road. Life was good not so long ago. Few complained. Less requested freedom from fossil fuels. Progressives may have postured; it is time for a change. However, few fled from their automobiles. The price of petroleum may have transformed their habits temporarily.
On Friday, (May 23, 2008) the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reported that Americans drove 11 billion fewer miles in March 2008 than in March 2007. According to the FHWA, that's the sharpest drop since the agency began keeping records in 1942.
Calculate Risk provides some context:This is only the third time since 1970 that the year-over-year change in total U.S. miles driven has declined. The previous two times were following the oil shocks of 1973 and 1979 -- and led to the two most severe U.S. recessions since WWII.
Drivers, some now riders, rejoice. History teaches us economic downturn do not last. This too shall pass. Most anticipate the shift is but a provisional switch. Indeed, Americans work to receive assurance. They rant and rage.
The President of the United States hears the cries. He responds. In April 2008, as Americans clamored for affordable fuel George W. Bush eloquently expressed elucidations to calm the citizenry. As a Mom or Dad might soothe a baby who bawls incessantly disturbs the parent who only wishes to please his or her progeny, President Bush proposed we do as has long satisfied spoiled Americans. George W. Bush proposes oil companies provide the people with what they want, more petroleum at prices the electorate likes.
As a self-proclaimed steward of the environment, the President said he would never wish to harm the land. He assured Americans, if we were to drill for fuel in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge [ANWR] that would be responsible stewardship, regardless of what some scientist say. Mister Bush declared if Americans simply increase the supply of fossil fuels, demand would be met. After all, is that not the goal. Give the baby a bottle of sweet crude and they will stop crying.
Studies show oil pumped from the Artic would have little impact on the cost or availability of petroleum; however, that information is less significant than immediate gratification might be. John McCain understands this. He is sensitive to the research and to the millions who intellectually reject the claims the Chief Executive makes. Senator McCain has a reputation for being a maverick. He relates to people who, in the twenty-first century, are more environmentally conscious. The Grand Old Party nominee knows the citizens can no longer be cajoled to believe drills do no damage. In the Information Age, the electorate is enlightened.
John McCain is cognizant; the people will only be persuaded to do as they desire if a Presidential aspirant promises to reduce greenhouse gases. Therefore, he proposes a cap and trade solution. This policy would allow companies to buy and sell emission credits. Those who wish to splurge and surge the grid can continue to do so. Energy exploiters can garner greater credit from those who are prepared to scrimp. The people who prefer to remain plugged in can. Those who wish to leave a smaller carbon footprint may do so. Everyone will be happy, and energy policies will not substantially change what is.
In remarks prepared for delivery Monday at a Portland, Ore., wind turbine manufacturer, the presidential contender says expanded nuclear power must be considered to reduce carbon-fuel emissions. He also sets a goal that by 2050, the country will reduce carbon emissions to a level 60 percent below that emitted in 1990.
Americans are again gratified. Change can be delayed. There is no rush to an energy revolution. Indeed, this proposal will furnish fission and not provide an authentic substantive solution. McCain's Nuclear Waste could possibly contaminate the ground water. The senior Senator does not discuss the need to prevent nuclear proliferation, the problem with security at nuclear facilities. Indeed, speculation is John McCain is a proponent of nuclear energy for political reasons. Imagine that. Assuage the people who have the power and finances to further a career and all will be well.
Senator McCain and the people, rich and poor, will retain the luxury that has long been essential. The public and the official can portray themselves as environmentalists. Yet, they need not abandon the way of life that has sustained them. John McCain states as many Americans do.
As never before, the market would reward any person or company that seeks to invent, improve, or acquire alternatives to carbon-based energy . . .Arctic National Wildlife Refuge [ANWR] I believe is a pristine place. I don't want to drill in the Grand Canyon and I don't want to drill in the Everglades . . .
I believe that climate change is real. It's not just a greenhouse gas issue. It's a national security issue.
However, Senator McCain has a record. He voted against tax credits to promote research. The League of Conservation Voters granted Senator McCain a zero rating on environmental issues. In 2007, the supposed ecological standard-bearer McCain missed all 15 critical environmental votes in the Senate. In the course of his Senatorial lifetime, only twenty-four (24) percent of the time did John McCain vote in favor of conservation.
McCain Missed Opportunity To End Big Oil Tax Breaks to Invest in Clean Energy. In 2007, McCain was the only senator who failed to vote on a motion to invoke cloture (thus limiting debate) on the Energy Independence and Security Act. This vote was about whether to close $13 billion in tax breaks for major oil and gas companies to invest in new clean energy technologies such as wind and solar, and efficiency. Sixty votes were required for passage. The motion was rejected 59-40. (CQ.com; HR 6, Vote #425, 12/13/07)
Actually, all Americans have a history that contradicts what they say is their truth. We, the people consume and waste, we purchase and pollute. We scrounge for energy-wise merchandise. Then, we buy not the most environmentally efficient product, but the best bargain. Many of us know what we did in the past, although we do not wish to speak of it.
Only years after citizens of this country waited in long lines for fuel, as a nation, Americans mused of the humorous hours they spent engrossed in an energy crisis. Once more, the public concluded it was time for a change; yet, they proved that transformation was not what they really wanted.
In 1976, the people elected an Executive Officer who did not wish to appease the people. On January 30, 1977, Jimmy Carter said what he reiterated days later on February 2, 1977; two weeks after the former farmer took office. The President engaged the public in a fireside chat. Donned in a casual cardigan sweater Mister Carter somberly said . . .
(T)he United States is the only major industrial country without a comprehensive, long-range energy policy . . . our failure to plan for the future or to take energy conservation seriously - started long before this winter, and it will take much longer to solve.I realize that many of you have not believed that we really have an energy problem. But this winter has made all of us realize that we have to act . . .
Our program will emphasize conservation. The amount of energy being wasted which could be saved is greater than the total energy that we are importing from foreign countries.
The American people looked, listened, and laughed at a President who would suggest. "All of us must learn to waste less energy. Simply by keeping our thermostats, for instance, at 65 degrees in the daytime and 55 degrees at night we could save half the current shortage of natural gas."
Citizens in this, the wealthiest nation in the world thought there was no need to worry. There never is. Americans are encouraged to live in the moment. This petroleum predicament would pass. The people then, just as now, ignored the cautions. Months later, President Jimmy Carter offered . . .
(Energy, the supply and demand) is a problem we will not solve in the next few years, and it is likely to get progressively worse through the rest of this century.We must not be selfish or timid if we hope to have a decent world for our children and grandchildren.
Yet, in the past and in the present, the public, while intellectually eager to leave a lush legacy for the progeny, does not wish to think of how what we do establishes the future. Few Moms and Dads ponder the profundity of energy policies. Prices are the only issue of import to the common folk. Countless will contact their Representatives to complain; the cost of gas is too high. Who will call and say, let the price of fuel rise? Americans cannot continue to eat oil.
Certainly, it will not be the millions pacified or the few who cling to the words of a scientist or two who scoff, humans have little effect on the environment. Will the people who read recent reports realize the need for immediate change. Will the informed relent and say, "I will no longer be placated," or will they respond to this energy crisis as they did in the last century when there was still time to correct the calamity that may now be out of our control?
Our countrymen may be content as spoiled children are. Perhaps, Americans will again stomp their feet, hold their breath, pound on the table and buy a gas-guzzler regardless of the admonition. The public may say, "Give me, give me, give me what I want, or else!" Let me eat oil, or maybe, just maybe, the childish ways of Americans will be gone with the wind. We can only hope that the people will no longer crave pacification and conciliation.
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