There comes a time when every man
Must take a stand and grab the hand
Of someone who truly needs him to
Live out his plan with dreams pursued.
Old and new alike, can be fulfilled
As long as your spirit and heart are deeply filled.
Empathy, sympathy for mass confusion.
For those are the ones needed to realize your conclusion.
Of a peaceful place where smiles are wanted
Not where happiness growth spurts have sadly been stunted.
By things and stuff, and always trying to act so tough.
Now fluff up that pillow and get back in touch.
Hopes and dreams, initially seem
Like a predisposition, where we color the scene.
Sometimes when you get there, you don't even know.
Cuz what 'once was' really isn't, now that you know.
There's a time when the mind
Climbs to the end of the vine.
There seeing the light,
Will open the eyes of those not seeing true sights.
Some will claim that they're just not that bright.
Ignoring the strength life's challenges just might
Have on them. Mostly likely you too,
Food has to be chewable in order to chew.
It can't be ignored, how many's been scorn
By life events beyond their control.
Since the day we were born
Life's happened to us, and on some it has taken its toll.
The point of it all is to just have a ball.
Individualism does have its place,
But as part of the whole. Don't limit your goals.
Truth and justice don't fold when the winter gets cold, but of course they also have their place.
It's been a while
Since I showed my style
And picked up a pen.
I think it's about time I start writing again.
Freestyle poetry,
Essays of propaganda,
True facts and mishaps,
Misunderstanding the need for slander.
He panders to he,
And he panders to me.
Manipulating our fears.
Telling stories of tears
Cried by those just like us.
In that the justice is for all
And that includes us.
So what's all the fuss about ME being the enemy that divides us all up.
Ninety-nine percent.
Even if we have to plant the seed in a tent,
Not thinking about regrets.
Carving the way for what we represent.
And another 98%
Ventin' and relentin' to fulfill their needs.
Waiting on the wanting to fulfill prophecies
Of rotating the universe 180 degrees.
Worth and value
Are two different things.
Worth is wealthier over entire life spans;
More precious than that 'price tag' that you hold in your hand.
Value is defined in the markets of man.
But non-human PEOPLE have taken the stance
To export our jobs to foreign lands.
Removing opportunity before even given a chance.
Money as food. Food as money. The choices we make Are simply not funny.
McDonald's. Burger King. Taco Bell. MSG behind the story they tell. Trick your mind to think it's good To nibble on food products where nutrition once stood.
Lettuce leaves that never wilt, Shiny red tomatoes after three weeks they're still Sitting beside lemons and limes. Not living food; only designed.
Diet is not what you take away. A way of life, if you may. You may not and you will see Prescription pills leaving your pockets empty.
A record number of people packed the Washington Mall last January 20th. If you include television and the internet, the inauguration of America's first Black president was among the most globally observed events in history. Many tears were shed by many people for many different reasons. Some were overcome by the mere fact that someone other than a white male lawyer was about to become the leader of the free world; others simply struggled against the wind that cut through the DC winter sky.
Change had come. Albeit, smaller change than what some had hoped. On that day, it seemed all the problems of the country, and to a large extent the world, were about to be solved. Hope, and its presence inspired one and all. Whether people were inspired positively or negatively didn't matter. Either way, the arrival of change had to be acknowledged. What we have seen since President Obama took the oath of office is a combination of some overly optimistic expectations and some fear that the status quo will no longer be accepted.
In 2009, Barrack Obama became the president based on his promises to change the way Washington works. He also promised to change the way Wall Street worked. It could be argued that changes have been made, but not to the extent that those who voted for the president had hoped.
In both pieces I discuss the need for US to define the change we want to see. Change is happening, but what are we doing to influence it?
2009 will also be remembered for the passing of a genius, Michael Jackson. There's no doubt the King of Pop was a musical genius, but his technological and humanitarian prowess is not to be overlooked or ignored. Since his death, I have collected all of MJ's music and have been listening to it more than I have listened to it in the last 10 years. Because of Michael's exclusive linguistic delivery, we sometimes fail to comprehend what he is saying. Partly because we can't understand it, but more importantly because we are FEELING it.
Michael Jackson's music will be around forever because of the message within. The truth he sang is universal and can be felt by humans the world over, including those who do not even speak the language of English. This same truth could arguably be what caused him to be portrayed in the manner he was since was first labeled a child molester. Allegations that he was never found guilty of, for the record. Besides that fact, many millions of Americans disregard the decades of work and millions of people he's helped under this guise. As in the song above, Michael was also about change.
Like every one of us, Michael was not perfect and struggled with his personal weaknesses. But when he WORKED, he was focused and groundbreaking. He provided expressions that would at the time, and hopefully will in the future, inspire people to be more humane and love one another. He (moon)walked the walk.
That video was from a march on September 15, 2007. It's been over two years since the people had enough energy to march down Pennsylvania Avenue from the White House to the Capitol building. The anti-war movement has been regrouping and re-energizing. The fight is not easy, and it can't be fought with a remote control from the comfort of you over-used sofa. And considering the first-level opponents in the struggle against eternal war are the US Department of Defense and it's conveniently adopted sister The Department of Homeland Security. These two agencies alone pack a punch of budgets worth $660 B and $55 B respectively.
That is a tremendously difficult task when the people who make up the anti-war movement are working people. To get to Washington, DC on a weekday is a world-altering event for some. The majority of those truly affected by the outrageous amount of money spent on war, are the same ones either fighting the war in the military or fighting in one of the many internal wars here in the "homeland."
I hope that the people of the anti-war movement can be reinvigorated by the growing movement for health care. The combination of the two can significantly help wach cause. Especially when you consider that everyone who lives in America could have free health care based on the same amount of taxes we currently pay. No need to raise them when they can be reallocated if we weren't spending TRILLIONS on two separate wars, with arguably no legitimate missions.
Regardless of strategy, change is going to have to start with the individual. We've all heard the saying "actions speak louder than words." They do. And that's how we need to define this "change" that we are hoping for. The change will be that we will no longer stand for "taxation without representation." We will hold officials accountable. It's obvious that from the beginning of this young country politicians would not regulate themselves. That's the point. The people within a democracy are supposed to be involved and that's what balances out the corruption.
Politics are not irrelevant just because you choose to ignore them. They continue the way the system was designed. If the people are involved, then their wants and needs will be addressed. If they are not, they won't. If our elected representatives were being held accountable by the people they would be talking to the people. Instead, no people are calling them, so they have no choice than to talk to other politicians (and lobbyists). Look where that's gotten us.
Michael Vick is an Eagle. And although I was working on writing something about his situation, this changed the situation. It's different when it's "your own backyard." I supported #7 through everything from the beginning. I have a different perspective of athletes and owners than most, and I've never owned a dog. Two very important factors. Him becoming an Eagle, as surprising as it was, did not change my view of him. It only added to what I previously thought.
I didn't think he needed to apologize to anyone. Especially in order to play in the NFL. People like to say that "it's just a game" or a "privilege." That's incorrect. It's a BUSINESS first, then a "sport." Not a game. Games are what we played as kids. The NFL is no game and no privilege. The majority of NFL players have overcome adversity that "Joe the Plumber's" of the world cannot comprehend.
An athlete like Vick does not come around very often. His skills and pure athleticism are unparalleled. Smooth, fast, and fluid. He's a natural. He was born with the gift and was put on a pedestal at a young age. And up until 2007, it was business as usual.
Dog owners across the world were outraged! Specifically dog owners. It's great to have a companion that shows unconditional love; I get that. But just because you do, doesn't mean that people who think dogs are animals do not exist. No moral questions should arise out of how you treat dogs. I don't see anyone knocking on the door of "the guy down the street" who ties his dog to the tree through the winter. Or the one who let's them lick out of their beers.
As we've said before, Nike is concerned by the serious and highly disturbing allegations made against Michael Vick and we consider any cruelty to animals inhumane and abhorrent.
Apparently, NIKE considers cruelty to HUMANS not only OK, but a business model. And somehow they hold the moral ground.
So the message I'm getting here is that it's OK to operate sweatshops and practice indentured servitude. Just don't kill dogs (you paid for on your property.)
This is what passes for "freedom and justice for all" these days. STOP WATCHING TV! F the court of public opinion.
Read. Please.
Or at least watch something that was not manufactured to get you to buy something. Or think something. Like "dogs >>> HUMANS."
Individuals like Michael Vick are used by the media to distract us. The same way "Jackie Robinson, Jim Brown, Muhammad Ali, Tommie Smith, John Carlos, Mike “Iron Mike” Tyson, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, and Etan Thomas" were used before. They are EFFECTS; not the cause.
MLB, NBA, NHL, and NFL would not want you to know that they pay NO TAXES and are exempt from all fair competition laws. They also wouldn't want you to realize that the salaries paid to players are NOTHING compared to what they make (or don't have to pay) in a year.
Mostly from tax subsidies and using the players and coaches to sell their image.
People have "their reasons" why they disregard politics. You have a "right" to do that, but don't forget the "responsibilities" that come along with your rights. It's easy to ignore the responsibilities in a democracy. And even easier to complain about the effects of the laws passed by those we ignore.
For many, politics seem so far away (in Washington or Harrisburg). But like anything, ignoring it doesn't make it disappear. We feel the effects whether we acknowledge it or not. And I had the pleasure of getting our voice heard by the highest level in our department. Even if disciplinary action doesn't happen, we've sent our message that we will not accept disrespect and sweatshop conditions. Or LYING!
That could not have been accomplished without the cooperation and inspiration of MANY. If a certain coworker would've named her baby Manhattan, instead of BROOKLYN!, things might not have turned out the same. =) The unity and awareness we've built must continue and be built upon.
I used to be in the frame of mind that "ALL politicians are greedy, corrupt liars." And because of this stance, disregarded politics. Then, I joined the military. This experience enlightened me to world of politics. In the end, it was a MAJOR factor when I decided to get out. Since about 1997, I've been following politics very closely. Our apathy has put us at a severe disadvantage. Hopefully, July 2009 has awaken the masses.
The people are the majority. Not the politicians. Proven by the struggle of PA state workers, politicians do not care about us. Moreover, they do not respect our numbers. This is based on our past and present attitude to accept what they do as "boys will be boys." And in particular in my workplace, "girls will be girls."
Even "office politics" should not be ignored or disregarded. My office is a smaller model of government. And right now we are being ruled by a tyrant. We must take the initiative to be informed to stop CURRENT operations and to prevent them in the future. Monday is going to be a new start for everyone. WE GET PAID THAT DAY TOO!
We will overcome this adversity. Many have before us. I would say the mistakes made by those before us was to forget it, instead of to remember it.
On the same day the Senate OK's another $61 BILLION for food stamps, caseworkers are fighting to get their own. It's SO unbelievable, I have to say it's UNBELIEVABLY UNBELIEVABLE!!!
We're being treated like children, and it's driving me insane. For your own boss to deprive you of not only your pay, but your federal assistance on top of that, is inhumane. I truly do not have the vernacular to describe the current situation. Everywhere we're told to go for help is a dead end. And even worse, working against you.
Being paid NEXT week is NOT good news! Live off 70% of your pay for a month. And like it. And now the icing on the cake: PA House Democrats Got Paid YESTERDAY!!! WTF!
If anyone feels like this might apply to their personal circumstances, let me know because I'm working on a grievance. This is Article 36, Section 7 (pg 91) of the contract.
"Employees should be treated in a respectful manner which does not embarrass them or demean their dignity. The appropriate forum for addressing incidents which are inconsistent with this principal shall be the Labor-Management meetings under this Agreement."
Our working conditions contribute to our health, and working conditions SUCK! If you file a grievance, you will be included in the meeting. If you feel like I do, and want your voice heard, this is the time.
It's amazing what passes for good news these days. Today, house democrats gave the governor our paychecks. Now he needs to SIGN it. He knows exactly what he needs to veto and it should be done already. And the "business days" is bull$hit too. Business? If there is no penalty, interest or any other of the many TAXES we have been programmed to pay, it's not business!
By not signing the budget TODAY, he's making 77 THOUSAND HUMANS wait one more day for what they NEED. What could the governor possibly be doing that's more important than giving the Commonwealth its legs? We're not even asking for the guts.
For those who shy away from politics, DON'T! You don't have to be a politician; just an educated voter. For most people, the month of July was the greatest amount of adversity they've EVER had to overcome. To balance the universe, that hardship must be matched positively. But it doesn't just happen. You gotta make it happen. It doesn't happen without politics(unfortunately.)
It's a shame and an inspiration at the same time: the (late)power of the people. But many have become more aware. Proof is with the ongoing USDOL investigation. Not even half of the people who have valid complaints filed one. And the DOL no longer wants to handle the complaints. We have a RIGHT to file our complaints and we SHOULD.
Today was a quiet day in the office. I noticed many empty cubicles. The spirit is gone. There might as well be a rain cloud hovering over the building. It's truly a depressing state. It hurts to smile; and it takes so much energy to do so. Maybe somber is a better way to describe the "workplace."
To make it even worse, our office is DARK. There are about 15 lights out in my section alone. Maybe we cannot order the lights because of the missing budget? Regardless the reason, it makes for a dreary climate.
This ideology of "the way things always have been" seems to trump common sense, simple human nature, and science. There is countless evidence that can be found on the State's OWN websites(including SEAP and Live and Work Well) that prove that our working conditions cause health problems.
Even when brought to the management FACE TO FACE, our concerns are ignored.
So tomorrow, in a best-case scenario, the Governor will sign some sort of budget to "allow" us to be paid. All the information I've read says that we'd receive WHAT WE'VE EARNED in 5 (business) days. That would mean next Tuesday, the 11th, we'd receive OUR money. And then receive our regularly scheduled pay check on the 14th.
I repeat, BEST-CASE SCENARIO.
That is still a long way off for most. This B-CS could still be the longest week of one's life. Be sure to file your complaint with the USDOL to ensure you get the "damages" the government feels you deserve. Even though we all know you cannot put a price on the damage.
BE STRONG!
"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." ~ Plato
These days we are struggling through will not be forgotten. As unstable and emotionally distressed as people are, we must try to understand our circumstances. When the budget impasse finally comes to an end, we will feel relieved. What must be recognized and not forgotten is the effects of the impasse. It will take some months and others years to recover from the stress that has been caused.
A speedy recovery will be dependent on people's awareness. Many have already realized that this situation affects all those around them. Unfortunately, during challenging times, those the closest to us suffer the most. The best way to reduce the breadth of our hardship is to talk with those closest to us. DO NOT try to deal with it yourself.
"It's really important for people to get educated on the effects because these things can really sneak up on you," he says. "Your economic situation is bad, you're having these problems in your marriage, and a lot of people don't realize these things are related to one another. If people can come to understand what can happen as a result of these problems, they'll be better equipped to cope with them."
So once we recognize our personal situations and deal as best we can with that, we must also remember how we got to this point. We all know that changes must be made, but are not quite sure WHAT needs changed. We must stay calm and level-headed. Emotions are dangerous. Many of the regrets we have in our lives came when we made emotionally-based decisions.
Firstly, WE must make a change. Ignoring politics has gotten us to the point where multi-BILLION dollar bailouts can be approved for banks in minutes. While the people, who are now involuntarily committed to paying for these bailouts, are told there is NO HELP. And it has now moved from 'no help' to withholding what the people have earned. We are paid for OUR TIME; not for the product produced. That is another change we must make. Let's put ourselves FIRST!
It takes a very "special" person to run for elected office. Like many of us, politicians gravitate towards a profession that brings out the best in them. Unfortunately for us, our current political climate rewards lying, corruption, greed, and "scratching backs." We have the power to stop this. Like anything, we must continue to pay attention and exercise our rights as taxpayers and citizens.
For example, we should take away from this budget crisis that ALL of Pennsylvania's elected officials disregarded state workers. NO ONE took a big enough stance to get workers paid and avoid violating federal law.
I'm also very interested in how the US Dept of Labor is going to handle the situation. The most recent information I've heard is that they've requested pay stubs up thru 7/3(7/17 paycheck). Glass half-full: they got enough evidence from these pay stubs to file suit. Glass half-empty: they're waiting to see WHEN a budget is signed (in a very "brush under the rug" sort of way.)
According to papers, 1500 complaints prompted the USDOL to stop accepting additional complaints and add a specific message to Commonwealth employees on their phone system. I hope that does not work against us. 1500 complaints out of 77,000 employees does not look good for our cause. We should continue to contact the USDOL to have our formal complaints filed.
Just understand that filing your formal complaint is the goal of the call. Be calm and rational. We now just want to show our numbers. The same way we did on July 28th.
"In politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination, from authorities who have not themselves examined the questions at issue but have taken them at second-hand from other non-examiners, whose opinions about them were not worth a brass farthing." ~ Mark Twain
Epiphanies should be rippling across Pennsylvania this morning. Although the State of Pennsylvania (thru SEAP) does not recognize the budget impasse as a "traumatic event," 33,000 HUMANS woke up to the truth. That very sad truth is a missing deposit parallel to the pay stubs issued by their employers.
To many, this will be the "straw that breaks the camel's back." Some will be paralyzed and not able to function, physically or mentally. They won't make it into work today, in hopes that they will be able to recover over the weekend. But also possessing the fear of disciplinary action, which only makes their condition worse. They are not FIT FOR DUTY.
This week, I've had many universal alignments. Tuesday, during an impromptu interview with PJ Reilly of Lancaster Newspapers, I was able to express the facts of the current working conditions. So much so, that it actually made it to print. I was pleased.
"I hope no one gets hurt before (lawmakers and the governor) decide it's urgent (to pass a budget), because it's human nature for people to go into a desperation mode right now," he said. "The amount of stress this is causing people is not being acknowledged, let alone being serviced."
Wednesday morning(DAY 29), this picture is on the FRONT PAGE. Needless to say, I got a lot of feedback throughout the work day. Mostly positive and some cautious and amazed. To take action is ME. But to many others, there is a fear that exists. I can only hope that my actions can break some of their fears. Because only then will we be free.
Also Wednesday, I received a letter from PA Department of Labor and Industry. It caused many different scenarios to blitz through my head before opening it. Most of these scenarios would not have been options a month ago. BEFORE the impasse.
I opened the letter and it was an Availability Survey for the job I applied for back in May. My light at the end of this CAO tunnel may have an end. My interview is scheduled for 8/7.
Wednesday also included the first "outbreak" in the office. I haven't spoken to either of the individuals involved, but this is what I've heard. I am quite familiar with the current situation of the employee, and the supervisor involved has quite the reputation.
The worker was filling out an application for Food Stamps. Imagine the psychological contradictions involved in filing an application for assistance in the very office you WORK. Then have a supervisor(not your own) who has a history of "bullying" workers tell you to complete the application on your break. He lost it. The completely verbal altercation (allegedly)ended in the POLICE being called.
If a 911 call wasn't placed, this is against DPW policy. As stated in the Workplace Violence Memo sent out the previous day.
If a 911 call WAS made, it reinforces the fact that management DOES NOT UNDERSTAND the size or scope of the problems.
To further reinforce either their misunderstanding, or blatant disregard, Thursday (DAY 30) another encounter. Our Virginia-Slim-smokin'-ED approaches me during lunch(MY TIME) to comment on something I did on MY TIME.
VSSED: "So now that you're famous, with your picture on the front of the paper, you're not going to avoid us now are you?"
I wanted to say you don't have to worry about me avoiding you! But instead I calmly replied "it doesn't seem to be enough."
She then says "I'm confident the budget will be signed and we'll get paid the week of the 10th."
I said "that's still 2 weeks away."
She then said something to make it seem like it was next week.
And I told her "No, it's 2 WEEKS." Walked away.
She inspired me SO much that I'm going to take my letter to all the local restaurants and see if they will donate or offer specials to state workers.
You know, the one that ends:
"While this correspondence creates no obligation on the part of you or your business, appreciate any flexibility you can provide to affected employees during the impasse."
And that's not MY grammatical error. WHO appreciates? Apparently not the person who signed this letter. It didn't mean enough to even proofread.
If there is any doubt to anyone that we are in a Depression, please admit it to yourself now. The GOVERNMENT is not paying its employees. And the money keeps going to the banks!
Today was hot! And standing in the heat at high noon, yelling at the top of my lungs didn't help. While thousands voiced their outrage in Harrisburg, a little over a dozen of us took to the square of Lancaster.
Work is beginning to tense up. We received a "Workplace Violence" EMAIL today. It contained the policy regarding it. Not a thing about how to prevent it, recognize it, or defend against it. Basically, "we don't tolerate it." Along the lines of "Stop whining!"
Also read today in the supervisor meeting notes that workers who are APPLYING for services in our office have TO TAKE LEAVE for their "interview." Good grief.
Does the State not realize that they are CAUSING the same conditions that they want to punish people for?
I got lucky with the Lancaster Newspapers today. Thanks to Farah for having the camera. And to LNP for putting a mic in front of my face.
A U.S. Department of Labor spokesperson tells CBS 21 that the purpose of the investigation is to protect state workers rights under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The department says now that an investigation is under way, there is no need for any more state workers to call and complain.
Sounds like the governor got a little talkin-to over the weekend. He's now THINKING. And more importantly, he thinks we need to "get the government running again."
Tomorrow I will be protesting in Penn Square, downtown Lancaster. Across from the brand new Convention Center, and right outside Central Market. Should be fun!
Some people took tomorrow off to head to Harrisburg too. The momentum's shifting.
In March 2003, I was still in the Air Force and stationed at Wright-Patterson AFB in Ohio. I had a set of orders and plane tickets to Turkey, somewhere along the southern border. There I would be setting up a base "from scratch" in order for the war with Iraq to begin. Although, I was never sent to Turkey I was scheduled three different times to fly out. All three canceled by a call in the middle of the night.
Needless to say, this was a very stressful time in my life. As a result of this experience, I formed an ever-growing discontent with the government. Because of what it personally put me through, and what I've come to find out it puts millions of people through everyday.
July 2009 is now comparable to March 2003. And it has the potential to surpass 03 this week. I am very concerned about how coworkers will react this week. It gets no realer than knowing you will not be paid when your livelihood, as well as your family's, is dependent upon this pay. These conditions, caused by our employer, are going to make good people do bad things. And it will not be their choice; it will be human nature.
Desperation is defined by Merriam-Webster as "loss of hope and surrender to despair." People have definitely lost hope, and I'm confident as this week progresses it will become obvious that folks can't think of anything else other than how they are going to provide for their families. The patience the governor has asked for is wearing thin. If he and his chain-of-command keep ignoring the health issues involved, I'm afraid the patience is going to turn to patients.
I'm sure that I have acquired some sort of "condition" as a result of this impasse. I say that because I am obsessed. And I'm enraged that the lawmakers do not share my obsession. I cannot effectively do my job because I cannot quit thinking about how to make them do theirs. (NOTE: I am aware of my obsession and this is NOT a threat towards anyone.)
The lack of leadership and management is disturbing. I am not "classified" as a worker who should be recognizing warning signs and proactively trying to prevent "traumatic events." But lack of classification should not discount my concerns. Until now, they have been. In a formal meeting on June 17, we requested SEAP to provide us a service. They declined and offered individual assistance.
I've spent a lot of time on their site, along with our other state-provided resource liveandworkwell.com. EVERY article, regulation, powerpoint presentation specifically states: DO NOT IGNORE warning signs.
From an article they have posted on their site titled, "Depression Costs Billions,"
"And many people don't recognize depression as an illness. Symptoms of fatigue and indecisiveness are often seen as personality problems, laziness, or weakness."
From an article by the Mayo Clinic titled "Job Burnout: Understand Symptoms and Take Action"
What are job burnout symptoms?
Ask yourself these questions to see if you're experiencing job burnout signs or symptoms:
* Do you find yourself being more cynical, critical and sarcastic at work?
* Have you lost the ability to experience joy?
* Do you drag yourself into work and have trouble getting started once you arrive?
* Have you become more irritable and less patient with co-workers, customers or clients?
* Do you feel that you face insurmountable barriers at work?
* Do you feel that you lack the energy to be consistently productive?
* Do you no longer feel satisfaction from your achievements?
* Do you have a hard time laughing at yourself?
* Are you tired of your co-workers asking if you're OK?
* Do you feel disillusioned about your job?
* Are you self-medicating — using food, drugs or alcohol — to feel better or to simply not feel?
* Have your sleep habits or appetite changed?
* Are you troubled by unexplained headaches, neck pain or lower back pain?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be experiencing job burnout. But because some of these symptoms also can indicate certain health conditions, such as depression, be sure to consult with your health care provider about your symptoms.
OK, so I've been spending most of my time reading and doing. Making it impossible to actually sit down and write anything. Out of necessity, the time has come for me to write again. Or else, my head is going to explode.
I'm also beginning to write down what has happened because it is now EVIDENCE in a federal investigation. Since we already have the USDOL's attention, why not take a look at working conditions too.
The letter above is consistent with the governor's interpretation of last year's Commonwealth Court ruling throughout this whole debacle. On 7/17, the governor said "I wish the law wasn't the law." I would feel the same way when I realized that I broke it.
I will never forget July 2009. It has been a month like no other. A true struggle and a call of spirit. I've learned a lot about the law, unions, worker's rights, politics, etc. I've made contact with a lot of great people, who I hope to continue in the fight that workers(and all humans) face. And sadly, a lot of those same people are now just realizing it exists.
Two sources specifically I would like to give a special thanks to are:
For those who have ever thought "Send the Mexicans back where they came from," please read my previous essay, "Illegal Is Not A Noun."
On May 1, 2009, 2 White defendants were found guilty of Simple Assault, committed against a Mexican immigrant. To some, this may be seen as a victory in Race relations and an intolerance for discrimination and hate crimes. In reality, this is a supreme injustice and a clear example of the racial inequality within our justice system. The most serious charges were 3rd degree murder, aggravated assault, and ethnic intimidation.
Even the lesser convictions are questionable. Derrick Donchak, 19, who was convicted of "providing" alcohol to minors, in addition to simple assault, is under the legal drinking age of 21(in PA). He received no underage drinking charge. This is particularly puzzling to me, because I happen to have 2 underage drinking charges from way back before I turned 21. Even CNN reports casually about a 19 year-old BUYING alcohol. (not to mention the place that sold it to him) And in the end, being drunk during the tragic beating is used in the defendants' favor.
Before I cover some of the facts of this case, I want to bring to light something said by Mr. Donchak's lawyer, Jefferey Markosky. In debate of whether Donchak's wearing a Border Patrol Agent T-shirt would reflect his stance on immigration, Mr. Markosky states "A T-shirt is not an expression of what your inner beliefs are."
I highly disagree with that statement, and would bet that anyone who owns a T-shirt would too. From my "MEXICO" soccer jersey to the "LA ALHAMBRA" T, with the Arabic writing to the ROOTS concert T. And to my boy, Mike O, T-Shirts are a religion. I'm not saying it's impossible, but you have to feel "some kinda way" to wear a Border Patrol T-Shirt. I WOULD NOT. AND I WOULD NOT BEAT AN IMMIGRANT TO DEATH EITHER. See the correlation?
To many, this is known and accepted. To many more, it's more convenient(and selfish) to ignore it. And that's IGNOREant. Racism will not end without everyone. Racism is so complex that it cannot be overcome without conscious participation. This is not easy. So here's an example of two racial injustices in PA and how they relate to one another.
Firstly, in the Shenandoah case the defendants are White. The victim was Mexican. All-white jury. From press releases, it seems the argument was not whether this gang of drunken teenagers killed Luis Ramirez, but WHICH ONE lunged the fatal kick to his skull.
Another man, 18 year-old Brian Scully, is the one who allegedly thrust the final blow. Curiously, he is facing only juvenile aggravated assault charges. Why should this adult be tried as a juvenile?
Supporters of the defendants say things like: Listen these are kids we are talking about. No matter how you look at it they ARE NOT COMPLETELY MENTALLY DEVELOPED.
In no way should they have ever been tried as adults and that is why the jury let them off. I am not only speaking for myself but for just about every male I know when I say there was a time when I was their age that I was in a fight and things got out of hand, however there is a very fine line that sometimes get crossed and this is an example of that.
I understand that there should be consequences for these young men, but in no way should they spend the rest of their lives with out a chance at normalcy.
If they were not white of course they would have been convicted but we live in America. We need to stop sentencing teens as adults. period.
I applaud the jury for their decision, and I hope that when your son or daughter gets in a fight and someone gets hurt that you will understand.
Such a sense of forgiveness and willingness to write it off as "boys will be boys." When truthfully, 3 of the 4 were adults. No doubt this decision will be appealed. And federal charges are already pending.
From Shenandoah, let's go to Lancaster, PA, where a Black 16 yo is being held in Lancaster County (adult)Prison. He's charged with homicide, being charged as an adult, and faces life in prison.
Lancaster County District Attorney, Craig Stedman says "Given the facts, there is no question that the upgrade is appropriate." Although not specifically cited, I would guess the upgrade is appropriate due to the DA's Gang Crime Reduction Initiative(GCRI).
This initiative enjoys all the powers of enforcement, at the same time it admits "the accuracy of the identification of gang affiliation and gang crime is being assessed as well as the effectiveness of gang intervention, prevention and disruption strategies." The GCRI "targets for aggressive prosecution," those who are identified as "gang-affiliated," which it does not have a root definition for.
In the case of Tyler Johns, his only affiliation with gangs seems to be he was harassed by them. Hopefully, the DA does not subscribe to the ideology that killing a gang member in self-defense is "gang-affiliated." Johns prior police record was fighting and curfew violations. No drugs or alcohol involved.
"City police Detective Lt. Charles Schmidt testified that Johns, told him he was frightened of Wright-Carter(victim) from earlier encounters.
Under cross-examination from defense attorney Hobie Crystle, Schmidt testified that Johns told him that in the weeks just prior to the stabbing Wright-Carter, of West Vine Street, shot at him, beat him and was a member of the violent Bloods street gang."
The victim in this case, Kenyon Wright-Carter, 18, was an adult. This detective admits he was told by a child that he was scared of an adult who previously attacked him. And nothing was done. Weeks later, a child is startled to see someone he fears. And with the history of already being shot at, he assumes he has a gun. Seems logical.
The child is literally at a gun fight with a knife. He grabs the knife and swallows his fear. BLACK OUT. What would you do? At 16? When you've already been denied equal protection under the law? When you suffer from Anosognosia?
Tyler Johns'incident happened January 24, 2009, and he turned himself in 2 days later. The men who killed Luis Ramirez, turned themselves in 3 weeks later to a cop who's dating one of their mothers.
Johns' case definitely has a chance of self-defense and temporary insanity. Ramirez's death was NOT self-defense; It was a drunken attack.
While the White 18 y-o, gets juvenile charges, the Black 16 y-o gets tried as an a adult.
The White defendants had an all-White jury. The Black defendant will not have an all-Black jury.
There is a reason our country failed to attend, or even acknowledge the need to, the UN Conference on Racism. There has never been a movement to reverse all the discriminatory laws in this country. Many perceive the Civil Rights Movement, led by Dr. Martin Luther King, to be the end of the equality fight. This perception ignores the fact that it was only the beginning of the discussion.
It's going to take all good people to care about justice.
R.I.P. Luis Ramirez (and all others killed for being who they are)
The World Health Organization defines health as "not only the absence of infirmity and disease, but also a state of physical, mental, and social well-being." I agree and would add that personal health also falls within the parameters of "promoting the general welfare," and "life,liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." The Constitution and The Declaration of Independence. Two document the majority of Americans lean on when defining their Patriotism.
The complexity of these morally and legally guiding documents is too much for one to comprehend. It's much simpler to latch on to a particular part, or parts, and apply the principles of only those parts to every experience. When, in reality, the intellectually honest approach would be to assess each experience independently and apply the pertinent sections. Not just the ones that you feel comfortable with.
Although promoted within the first words of The Constitution, "Welfare" has a stigma associated with it in 2009. It's a code word now; associated with minorities and hurts many more Whites than it does minorities. Minorities, as the victims, recognize it and are able to adjust to it. While many Whites of the same economic level refuse to acknowledge who their true enemies are. As a result, many Whites who hold the prejudice against an association with "Welfare" do not receive the benefits they qualify for. Mostly because they never apply, out of shame.
The bottom-to-middle percentage of the "Middle Class" is already heading towards poverty, if they're not already there. The income scale has shifted; this must be recognized and responded to. Priorities must be adjusted into an updated view of the world. The jobs that were sent overseas are not coming back. Many are falsely hoping the jobs will come back and things will return to "normal." Normal is not permanent. It changes, and we need to keep up.
We are no longer in an industrial age. But we still teach our children with an industrial teaching model. Manufacturing is gone; basic auto repair is gone; Tele-customer service is gone. Public schools are failing because of lack of technology; telling a child to read 20 pages from a book is like telling previous generations to read from stone tablets. Boring and "out of touch." The same assignment can be given where the child reads three pages on a website, watch the video, or listen to the podcast. For success in the future, basic computer skills are the new minimum requirement. Replacing HS Diploma.
Many Whites, mostly college graduates, will argue against any advantage their skin color and legal classification provides. This is a common defensive reflex I have experienced when discussing Race relations with Whites. The logic used to defend white privilege is to ignore the overall statistics and make it personal. When you're the majority of a population, as white males are in the US, it's easier to accept the status quo without seeing any negative effects. Averages always work in your favor. There's also an unconscious trust Whites have with the government. That trust comes from a history of government assistance; as apposed to non-White males having a general hesitation regarding government decisions.
TOTAL POPULATION FOR LANCASTER COUNTY = 493,910 TOTAL POOR WHITES (100% of FPIG) = 6.7% (28,134 ppl) TOTAL POOR BLACKS (100% of FPIG) = 30.6% (4,779 ppl) TOTAL POOR LATINOS(100% of FPIG) = 27.9% (8,935 ppl)
100% of the FPIG for a family of four is $22,050. That's $10.60/hr, 40 hrs/wk, 52 wks/yr. Even if you're lucky enough to have a job offering 40 hours for 52 weeks, avoiding illness is still very difficult. Especially when insurance is too expensive compared to wages.
Research from Penn State University shows the living wage for Lancaster County for the same family of 4 is $28.18/hr (or $58,614/yr). That's more than double of what the government considers impoverished.
To an extent, we've allowed this to happen by our lack of participation. Though the greater extent, of which we did not allow, is powerful and invisible. To be satisfied with what you're given impedes progress in every case. Information must be analyzed and compared to your current personal beliefs. When information is indiscriminately accepted as truth, the author must be identified. Then you will know the reasons someone would repeat their thoughts instead of creating original thoughts.
American Traditions are some times more powerful than its laws. And only a short time ago, did the US recognize women and Blacks as equals. More than property. This NOW in time is critical to the future of the World. There's an incredible burden on the majority of White Americans to recognize and mobilize when it comes to Racial divisions. The progress of Americans and America is deadlocked on Racism and Slavery.
There are many self-proclaimed experts in many different disciplines who haven't a clue of how to fix what's broken. Fortunately for them, they have the security of education, wealth, and health. They also have a support structure in those of similar economic levels. Color has less of a factor when education levels are comparable. Problems can be solved by cooperation and communication. The lower income/education-level folks are divided first by differences, even in parallel circumstances.
Imagine the 28,134 White poor folks working in unison with the 4,779 Black folks and 8,935 Hispanic folks to address the issues that are affecting all of them equally. It requires critical thought and honest acceptance of facts. Whereas today we seem to be satisfied with blaming one another based on something irrelevant and involuntary. Racism is American History. The truth about Racism needs to be addressed before we can ever hope to live in "Post-racial America."
Instead of a united group of poor people, we have divided groups of Races. This group labeled poor, and "under-privileged" by media and politicians, is the majority. And the majority of this majority are White folks. To unite this group will take a member of the majority. The minorities seem to have been waiting since the Civil Rights Movement for unity.
Dr. King had an approval rating similar to George W Bush in his last years. He was speaking out against poverty, and was organizing the Poor People's Campaign. He had poor folks from the south living in "Resurrection City" on the Washington Mall. Bringing the poor people's struggle to the nation's eye and the government's.
"The proportion of U.S. prisoners to its population has hit a new high. The Washington Post reported on July 11, 2008 that the United States has 2.3 million criminals behind bars, more than any other nation in the world. A report issued by the U.S. Department of Justice on December 11, 2008 said that over 7.3 million people were on probation, in jail or on parole at the end of 2007, equivalent to 3.2 percent of all U.S. adult residents or one in every 31 adults. (The United Press International, December 11, 2008). For black men aged between 20-34, one in nine was in jail. (The Guardian, March 1, 2008). The rate of prisoners, higher than any period in the U.S. history, was almost six times the world average (125 in every 100,000 people). According to statistics, the recidivism rate stayed high in the United States. Half the people of previous convictions were sentenced to prison again within three years."
I had an interesting discussion at work yesterday. I walked into a conversation where a few people were talking about the way people dress. Specifically targeting minorities and the Hip Hop culture in general. None of the people talking had much knowledge or understanding of the culture or psychological effects of being a minority in this country. I tried(really, I did) to be silent, in hope it would pass.
Then one man, who is basically on the waiting list for a police officer position, describes an incident during a ride-along he had with an officer. The officer stopped and confronted a man because of the way he was wearing his hat. Adding that the officer asked "Where can I get one of those hats?" Because of the joking manner in which the story was told, I broke my silence.
ME: "Why don't you think that's harassment?"
HIM: "He just asked him a question? No harm done."
ME: "That's profiling."
HIM: "If it would've been a White person, they would be treated the same way."
ME: "That's not true. Don't you think minorities are disproportionately incarcerated?"
HIM: "I read 200 studies that say they're equal."
ME: "I have a hard time believing you read 200 studies and would come to that conclusion. Who did the studies?"
END OF RECESS
This is not the first conversation I've had with this individual, and he's generally a good guy. But I challenge him EVERY time he displays discriminatory dissonance. He will be a police officer in the future. I take it upon myself to plant the seed in him. He's obviously never heard the view of police by those he targets and mocks. He should and will.
As of July 2007, the rate of incarceration by race was as follows(per 100,000):
NATIONAL WHITE: 412 (.4%) BLACK: 2290 (2.3%) HISPANIC: 742 (.7%)
