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Supreme Court Rules; Brown Versus Board of Education Reversed

Affirmative Action: Separate But Equal

copyright © 2007 Betsy L. Angert. BeThink.org

It is official Brown versus Board of Education has been reversed. Providing equal education opportunities to all children, regardless of race, color, or creed is no longer a priority. The 1954 Court decision that invalidated the principle of “separate but equal” was overturned on June 28, 2007. This day will live in infamy. In another of the many recent 5 to 4 split decisions, the neoconservative Supreme Court canceled the promise made to students of color.

Bush Wins His War Against Saddam Hussein. Hang Him High ©

As a child, when one of our playmates was known to be typically stubborn, a bully, or infantile we would accept that he or she needed to have his or her way. When confronted with unnecessary conflict, those wiser and more evolved would look longingly at each other and say, "Let the baby have his bottled!" We would give in to immature desires and walk away shrugging our shoulders as we passed the selfish monster.

As adults, we forget. Frequently, we give in. When President Bush ranted and raved, "You are either with us [the United States led by this silly imposter of a man] or against us," we, as a nation, accepted that he was correct in taking that stance. We played along and "followed our leader." Grown men and women in Congress relented.

They decided against further diplomacy with Iraq and its leader, Saddam Hussein. Lawmakers signed on to policies not worthy of an elder statesman. Perhaps, our representatives were reluctant. They did not wish to do battle with a bully, particularly one known as "President of the United States of America." Thus, our legislators approved the Bush war and the hunt for Saddam Hussein was on. On December 30, 2006, it ended in a hanging. [See video above.]

The World Can’t Wait, Activists Publishing in USA Today ©

We never know what might help in our campaign to regain America. None of us can predict what might assist and what might hinder our efforts. We can only choose to act on what we believe in. Vocal activist may choose one path; the more quiet voices may state their support in other manners. I offer an alert, a way in which you might contribute to the cause.

This method may not be your chosen means for expression; that is fine. However, I think we agree, the World Cannot Wait! Thus, I present a communiqué I received. The organization, the World Can’t Wait is asking for your assistance. You might donate to sponsor a USA Today information advertisement. You might join a mass protest. You might hold a fund-raising party. The Bush Crimes Commission is about to release their findings; people may be motivated by this case.

There are many ways available to you. Please choose your own. This is just one possibility for re-claiming America. You may have other ideas. I only offer this for those that might find it interesting.

Marines Kill Innocent Iraqi Family. Verdict “Not Guilty”? ©

That was an odd observation, or so I thought at the time. The words of a close friend, a psychiatrist, and a veteran haunted me so deeply that now, days later, I cannot shake them. In discussing the recent revelation, Marine soldiers brutally slaughtered innocent Iraqi families in their home; my companion said he thought these men should go free. He stated that were he among the psychiatrists to testify in the case, he would recommend they be acquitted. I was stunned. I had heard the news.

According to MSNBC News,

A Pentagon probe into the death of Iraqi civilians last November in the Iraqi city of Haditha will show that U.S. Marines "killed innocent civilians in cold blood," a U.S. lawmaker said Wednesday.

From the beginning, Iraqis in the town of Haditha said U.S. Marines deliberately killed 15 unarmed Iraqi civilians, including seven women and three children. One young Iraqi girl said the Marines killed six members of her family, including her parents. “The Americans came into the room where my father was praying,” she said, “and shot him.”

I said nothing, or if I did, I do not recall. I was in a state of shock. I let him continue. He mentioned the circumstances that preceded the soldiers’ attack, and mused of people in a place far from home, mired in daily battles. I listened. I thought, and I continue to ponder. In this treatise, I ask you dear reader to do the same.

President Bush, Prime Minister Blair Come To Visit, Converse With Me ©

All words attributed to George W. Bush are his. He said these at his Thursday night, May 25, 2006, press conference.
Possibly, you, as I, look forward to our meetings with the President, infrequent as they are. Perhaps, that is why we treasure them so. These conferences are rare, though, nevertheless, a treat. When President George W. Bush asks Prime Minister Tony Blair to accompany him, well that is truly a delight. I am overjoyed. I revel in these exchanges. I can hardly wait to invite the two in my parlor for a chat. This Thursday night was such an occasion.

While the hour was late in London, and therefore, few Englishmen and women would be able to join us, I acknowledged that I was fortunate. Two men of such great stature, power, and fame [infamy] were coming to visit me. We would gather in my living room. They stated earlier that they were ready, willing, and of course able to discuss politics, particularly the Iraqi war. This was such a dream come true.

I invited each of my guests to speak first. I requested they share their points of view; I would listen, and then discuss. Blair spoke some, though his words were not as poignant as those of the President. Mr. Bush has a style and finesse that is engaging, thus, he and I conversed.

America. Freedom Of Speech, English Only ©

Photograph By Jim Young I am dumbfounded or at least, wish I were. America has once again proved itself xenophobic! I awoke to the news, “Senate Votes to Set English as National Language.” Apparently, on Thursday, May 18, 2006, the Senate agreed to declare English this nation’s official language. The debate, prior to the formal poll was passionate. The word “racism” was tossed about. Nevertheless, the bigoted belied what they know to be correct and voted overwhelmingly to impose English upon all that enter this land. The final vote was 63 in favor, 34 against.

However, 'moments later,' the voice of reason filled the room, Senate members altered their stance slightly. They again voted, and this time passed a less powerful amendment. English would be titled the “unifying language.” I ask how a divisive dictum can unify rather than divide. Sadly, I am certain I will not receive an answer that I can comprehend. According to Democratic Senator Harry Reid “Although the intent may not be there, I really believe this amendment is racist. I believe it is directed at people who speak Spanish.” Mr. Reid, I trust that is true. America has become focused on Mexican immigrants. This nation wants the “Brown” out!

Immigration. Intertwining Self-Interests and Ignoring Interdependence ©

When discussing immigration it seems that what we in America know is what we ignore. We know we want higher wages. Americans strongly support increasing the income of native-born and naturalized workers. Citizens of this country consider their wages and benefits vital. Those of others in “foreign” lands are not our problem, or possibly, they are a cursory consideration.

Persons residing in the United States want to ensure their quality of life. The general public wants “stuff.” They are proud of their possessions and property. They flaunt these on airwaves and movie screens throughout the world. People in this nation want the others on this Earth to see how good they have it. Americans say, “Look at me. I am so happy and healthy because I have this, that, and the riches that you do not.” People of the USA pose for the cameras and profess, “This is America, the land of the free, home of the brave, and the land of opportunity.” Citizens of this country invite and entice people from afar to come to this great land. Then when immigrants do, [the ugly] Americans says, “Now, go home!”

Americans are offended when those residing in this country without papers crave what citizens have or when they use our services and resources. What happened to hospitality? Hostility replaced it.