One Progressive’s View: A Message from and to Black America Part I

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By Credence2

I have been with Hub Pages for over 8 months and I find the process of writing therapeutic, a way to get a lot of things off of my chest that I don/t like to carry around. I was most disturbed when I saw this online article entitled “Obama Jobs Plan Heartens Frustrated Blacks”. I read the article with the usual interest, but was taken aback when I saw all the comments. They were of a nature that was well beyond the discussion of the merits of his program and the political differences that would be expected in such a forum.

The comments seem to come from everywhere with the overwhelming tone being clearly negative. It was what they were commenting about that was so disturbing. So, many insisted that the President was pandering to blacks with his program. I listened to the President’s address that evening and I did not hear any specific reference to race based solutions to the national unemployment crisis. What kinds of things swim in those minds of theirs? Then there were other Anglos that stated that if blacks were to benefit, somehow it would be at their expense, “a zero sum’ game. Never mind the fact that blacks are experiencing unemployment at rates that whites would consider at depression levels. There was no consideration, no compassion, just us verses them.


Then comes all the usual stereotypes, racial slurs, indicating that blacks are lazy and are just looking for another way to ‘game the system’ The sheer quantity of vitriol from people who would never say these things to another, face to face, was overwhelming. When I looked at all the photos of the lynchings that occurred in United States and the literal crowds standing around with the vendors selling refreshments, I have to wonder have we really changed or is all of this rather than being part of the past just merely redirected, not ameliorated. All the resentment and rage so many Anglos seem to harbor about this President has got to be having psychological effects. Do so many of you really carry all this angst around with you all of the time?


Just beneath the thin veneer of civility are the fundamental attitudes and beliefs of bigotry and racism made evident without even the desire to conceal it and be polite. Well, so much for the idea of a post racial society. The disrespect of this President and the office he holds has got to be more than coincidence. The trouble the President has had with congress is just a mere extension of the racial resentment and fear that is clearly among the masses. Perhaps I was naïve to expect more from those at such a high stature within our society.


First of all, is it unnatural for blacks to express hope in the President’s effort to assist in providing jobs in this troubled economy, when they are so adversely affected, unexpected? I no more expect this president to look exclusively to the interests of the black community any more than I expected Anglo presidents to look exclusively toward the interests of white communities. But, when you visit history, you know that many of them have. We only have a black president because of the overwhelming support for Mr. Obama by non-white voters. Plus, when you consider how the Republicans and their economic philosophy virtually destroyed the economy over the first decade of this century culminating with the September 2008 meltdown, it was hard for any Democratic contender to lose, even if he is black and considered ‘not one of us’ by many Anglos

Whites have always asked me, expecting an impartial answer, why haven’t your people pulled themselves up by their bootstraps? Until very recently the net worth of the average black family was 10 cents to every dollar of the white family. I had heard recently that because of the housing crisis, that ratio is now closer to 5 cents to the dollar. When the Anglo can go to Uncle Joe or Aunt Sue for seed money to start a business, most of us and our extended families have insufficient resources to do the same. This advantage whites have enjoyed over many generations relative to blacks and Hispanics. I never bought into the conservatives’ line about it being the “virtue of hard work”. My parents worked hard and I saw plenty of Anglo ‘dingbats’ that were the very antithesis of hard work or otherwise.


This gap in wealth is the reason that during hard economic times, we are the ones lacking the economic buffer to ride out the situation. It is always why I wondered why white people always seem to have so much money. It was why, while at the university, a white classmate told me that she was going to take a sabbatical for a year or two to find herself and then return ready to work. I know what my father would have told me if I made such a suggestion, I would have been more than likely to find a boot in my rear end within a nanosecond after the suggestion left my lips.. This lack of net worth forces us to the edge, with limited resources, thereby having only one chance to make good of an opportunity which was not likely to come again. Whites are 10 times more likely to have a substantial inheritance than blacks.


So, there is your seed money to advance your interests and that of your progeny. We all know that there is a fundamental difference between being rich and being wealthy. Prior to 1950 everybody is aware that the dearth of opportunities for people of color in the wider society was evident through overt and institutionalized racism. So, it is difficult to build a foundation when merely acquiring the resources to survive was a challenge Wealth is accumulated over time, I know, as my sister has married into a wealthy family (old money), where everybody takes their time as to achieving the things that they desire to accomplish. Any number of indiscretions of their members can be absorbed, with their financial resources providing each a ‘second chance’.


Wealth means having the resources to invest in the long term in the financial markets. Most minorities had their wealth in their homes and when the housing market failed, that wealth went with it.

Many of you are going to say, ‘what about Oprah or I was the son of an Appalachian coal miner’s daughter’, or other such thing. We are talking about the average and if you wish to dispute the veracity of data provided by the US census, go ahead, but I suggest that you read another article, elsewhere.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Household_income_in_the_United_States


Then, of course, it is this argument about welfare and those playing the system. It seems to be an overriding theme of our adversaries. They say that the media is liberal, but I question that, how are so many lured to these eternal stereotypes? Those in the disaffected groups generally have to work harder to sustain themselves and their families without the help of Uncle Joe, who most probably has even less. Yes, there are many blacks using the social services safety nets. But as I have stated earlier, the people as a group are generally poorer. Is it any surprise that they are going to need to use the resources in greater and disproportionate numbers? The racial slurs, of course, speak for themselves

In spite of all this, history and the racial climate is only part of the problem. We bear a certain amount of blame for our current plight which I will address in Part II


HSchneider Level 6 Commenter 8 months ago

This is just another example of the racial attacks that are made against the President. Most are cloaked in other language, "We Must Take Our Country Back" or "Barack Hussein Obama". This is just another example of the Far Right's racial and ethnic attack on the President. They have been using underhanded tactics since Lee Atwater did it in the 1980's. Remember Willie Horton. They are playing upon people's insecurities and ignorance during this economic downturn. Excellent Hub Cred2.

PETER LUMETTA profile image

PETER LUMETTA Level 6 Commenter 8 months ago

I read part 2 first. This is elemental, I can hear it and see it in the many ways the POTUS is refered to in the media and how ordinary folks think of him. Thanks you credence for a quick lesson in humility, your friend

Peter

American View profile image

American View Level 7 Commenter 8 months ago

"We must take our country back" has been the rally cry for both sides of the aisle for several generations now. So when the Dems said that while trying to defeat Bush, was it racial then? Now saying "Barack Hussein Obama" is racist. is the name Hschneider racist? It is the Presidents name, not a racist rally cry. There is enough real racist BS to deal with without making up more crap.

Cred2, Sadly, you are right about the wealth differences between race. Despite efforts to change that, it has not changed all that much. In our current economy, blacks have been hit the hardest when it comes to unemployment.

I think part of that is because there are not enough small businesses owned by blacks. They are mostly just employees.

As for loans, I can tell you there are unfair lending practises in each race. I can tell you that one time when my construction business was hurting and needed a short term loan. I called a program that was suppose to be in place to help small business. I was told on the phone I was wasting my time because she could hear in my voice I was the wrong race and would not get approved. I got pissed and applied anyway and was turned down. I reapplied this time I changed the spelling of my last name but everything else was the same. I was approved. Of course I told them what they could do with the loan and I proved my point.

rmjudkins 8 months ago

Credence2, thanks for sharing your perspective. I am reminded of Dr. King and his followers, whose perspectives are chronicled in the archives of a movement, so preserved that the injustices permitted in a separate and unequal society are never again legitimized by political and popular will. I too fear we, as a nation, have failed to honor the creed of equality for all. Your argument is scholarly, useful, and worthy of this reader's thumbs up!! Regards, Robert

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 8 months ago

I hear you, HS. I am just appalled at to what extent and how low below the belt they are willing to strike. These tactics are going to backfire on the GOP and Tea Party, thanks for your comments, Cred2 These guys have always got to take the low road.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 8 months ago

Hi, Peter, I am glad that you had the opportunity to read both articles. Thanks for reading and providing your observation.... Regards Cred2

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 8 months ago

Hi, AV, thanks for coming by. Yes, I will be the first to admit that I did not like Bush much. I called him a warmonger and a neo-con. But we never made an attack on the entire Anglo society because of his policies. This matter that I am speaking of is bringing the level of debate a notch or two lower.

True AV, there are difference is our economic condition that I wanted to educate people about. More entrepreneurship on the part of the community would certainly help. But again, all this takes money which is not plentiful. Part II talks about remedies to our current economic plight that will have to come within. Have a look. It is not pleasant to be discriminated against under any circumstance, it is just a fact that for blacks the expection of this treatment has been a way of life rather than an anomaly. It was pretty dumb for that lady to show her hand like that, who was it that they were supposed to be lending to? Thanks for your insight, until next time....Cred2

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 8 months ago

Credence2

On Mon. Sept 5, 2011 the nation celebrates LABOR DAY. Today unemployment stands at 9.1% and there are 14 million citizen workers out of work. The unemployment rate for black men is 18% and among black youth it is close to 24%. The US Economy 0.7% growth rate in the first half of 2011 was the slowest since the recession officially ended in June 2009.The Obama administration’s projections had to be lowered from 1.3% to 0.7%. The Obama administration’s estimates have been wrong over 40% of the time

Illegal alien immigration is not a solution to the country’s labor problems. How many jobs have the illegal immigrants taken away from our legal citizens? The government estimates that there are 11 million illegal immigrants in the country.

‘’ We are a nation of the rule of law ‘’, our politicians proclaim daily. The law is broken when you enter the country illegally, that’s a fact.

Is Government the SOLUTION or the PROBLEM?

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 8 months ago

Hello, Jon, thanks for coming by. Did you know that percentage of Americans in poverty today has broken a record not seen since 1983. Seems like then we were also in the depth of a recession and it was during Ronald Reagan's watch. How much time was he given to get the economy to turn around? These are unprecedented times, far worse then the downturn of the early 80's. I do not expect the President to solve problems of this magnitude overnight. I follow you and HS religiously on his hubs and I am with and agree with HS' perspective. While, I may not rise to his eloquence, I agree with stance on the issues 99 percent of the time.

Yes, I have a problems with illegals, but it is 'the right' that would be the most resistant to punishing those that hire them, as cheap labor is part of the perks for their constituency. They come here for jobs, take the ability to be hired away and there goes the incentive.

The Government is neither the solution nor the problem, but a partner in getting things done. Regards Cred2

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 8 months ago

Robert,

Thanks for reading and commenting.

"I am reminded of Dr. King and his followers, whose perspectives are chronicled in the archives of a movement, so preserved that the injustices permitted in a separate and unequal society are never again legitimized by political and popular will"

This excerpt from your comment is quite profound and sums up what we are up against. It certainly seems that we still have many that just as soon bring all the bad times back for us and express sheer rage at our desire for fair play.

Regards, Cred2

d.william profile image

d.william Level 7 Commenter 7 months ago

Wonderful insightful article. In all my years, i have never seen such vicious attacks on any previous president. There should be a law against the kinds of hateful, hurtful lies that people spew from their nasty mouths about ANY president. To deliberately defy the people for the sole purpose of destroying this president is unbelievable, and hopefully unacceptable by the majority of Americans. I have never seen the GOP (or the Democrats) sink to this level of absurdity and meanness. Therefore, the only logical conclusion is that it is NOT his politics but rather his color that has made people so publicly nasty. The GOP has made it quite clear that they would rather see this country go down the tubes than allow any progression towards the betterment of the people in order to destroy this president. It is appalling.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 7 months ago

HUBBERS

President Obama wants a socialist progressive form of government based on the environment and radical socialism. He was a ‘’ neighborhood organizer ‘’ in Chicago and is 100% backing unions and their ideology.

The office of the Presidency, highest in the land, has been tarnished by his actions and despise of the Constitution and the Laws of the land.

Sadly the poor become poorer and the middle classes are moving down to the poor class. A past President once said ‘’ government is not the solution, government is the problem’’. The President’s arrogance, inexperience, incompetence and integrity are part of the problem. Obama claims that others are taking a position of ‘’ my way or the highway’’. Truly Obama has the top title.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 7 months ago

Credence2

'Did you know that percentage of Americans in poverty today has broken a record not seen since 1983''.

The Democrats have had 2/3's control of the Government since 2007 to Sept. 30,2011. How come no one mentioned their contribution to the American Dream, whatever that means .

The American Dream in 2009 to the present.

The Pew Hispanic Center reported that 6.1 million Hispanic children are poor compared with 5 million non-Hispanic white children and 4.4 million black children. The number of poor Hispanic children is at a record high, black children have a higher rate of poverty, 39%, compared with 35% for Hispanic children. The overall rate for white children is about 12%. The recession put more children of all races and ethnicities into poverty. The poverty rate for black children increased twice as fast. The 50,000 on food stamps, the 14+ million on unemployment and all time poverty rates are records of the Obama- Democrat majority control of the government.

Have aa great day

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

D, Thanks for your gracious comments. I could not help but notice that the truth is made evident upon close and unbiased evaluation. It certainly can not bode well for us as a society as we are still stuck with all these unchanging attitudes and biases. Regards

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

Well, Jon, we meet again. This is not the place to bash the president. I do not see any solution from the right to our economic problems. I will stick with Obama over your Perry, Bachmann or Romney, thanks. Your side is only obstructionist and I do not trust them and have to pull the my voter's lever against them at everyturn. Thanks for visiting and weighing in

JON EWALL 7 months ago

Credence2

''I do not expect the President to solve problems of this magnitude overnight''

''is not the place to bash the president. I do not see any solution from the right to our economic problems.'' JUST A LITTLE INFO as to why ?

Costly Regulations Cost Us American Jobs

According to a September 2010 report from the Small Business Administration, total regulatory costs amount to $1.75 trillion annually—enough money for businesses to provide 17.5 million private sector jobs with an average salary of $100,000. As of 2008, small businesses—which have created 64 percent of all new jobs in the past 15 years—face an annual regulatory cost of $10,585 per employee, which is 36 percent higher than the regulatory cost facing large firms.

The Obama Jobs Bill gives business a tax credit ( tax credit is short term, ends in 2012) which is not enough to hire new workers. Again Smoke and Mirrors.

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE CAIN said that he wants everyone to be rich and to be able to have a job. The Obama Administration has been told that NEW government regulations are hurting the opportunity of business to hire.

HERMAN IS THE ''MAN'' TO tell the TRUTH!REALLY

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

Jon, Herman Cain is an "uncle tom". He has twisted himself like a pretzel to avoid and ignore racial animosity of his beer buddies to accomodate the rightwing base of the GOP. It is nice for Cain to say that he wants everybody to rich, his policies seem only to make sure that those that already are remain so at the expense of everybody else. But with the GOP, that is nothing new.

Jon, you still have not told me what the GOP plan is for addressing the job issue in the short term.... No Jon, this is one Cain that is definitely not Abel!! Thanks for visiting, Cred2

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 7 months ago

Credence2

THE GOP PLAN IS SIMPLE,stop the spending,cut government WASTE and tell the american peole the whole TRUTH.

SENATOR COBURN identified $9 trillion of waste in the government.

The House Republican PLAN for America’s Job Creators

A blueprint to JOB recovery

http://www.gop.gov/indepth/jobs

Obama tells the public that the republicans have no plan, Obama lies again.

The President's jobs bill is scheduled to be debated in the Senate this coming week. Check c-spans program listings, they should have some hearings to show.

The 5.4 surtax on millionaires reminded me of the luxury taxes Congress placed on high expensive products some years ago.

The millionaires just stopped buying airplanes, boats, cars and stopped investing. Many of the effected industries went down the tubes and many workers were laid off.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

I checked out the GOP site and read the summary, thanks for furnishing it. But we still need jobs right now! I want unnecessary regulations removed but not those that protect the health, safety and fairness concepts betweeen the American people and the so called Job Creators. These cuts as HS has told you must be balanced requiring the affluent to pay their fair share. Why all the loopholes and subsidies for the Thurston Howell group? I certainly cannot afford that. The middle class must not be at the mercy of the oligarchs. Put simply, Jon, everybody has to get skin in the game or there is no deal.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 7 months ago

Credence2

''but not those that protect the health, safety and FAIRNESS concepts betweeen the American people and the so called Job Creators''

Allow me to repeat

1.Costly Regulations Cost Us American Jobs, WHY?

http://www.gop.gov/indepth/jobs/regulations

2.The Senator Coburn Report July 21, 2011

DEFICIT WASTE IN the US GOVERNMENT see video

Back in the black, the SOLUTION

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3tVJ2gqqKWs

It's now time for the government in Washington to step up. There is $9 trillion in wasteful operations, $4 trillion could be a starter.

FUNNY, HOW THE SUPER COMMITTEEE CAN’T FIND $1.5 in savings.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 7 months ago

Credence2

You said ''We bear a certain amount of blame for our current plight which I will address in Part II''

I SAID ''The 50,000 on food stamps, the 14+ million on unemployment and all time poverty rates are records of the Obama- Democrat majority control of the government.''

MY reply to another hub

On the way to the poverty rolls. LOST 6% on my small IRA, paid $3.67 /gal for gas on my 1988 beater, got a 25% INCREASE in my healthcare insurance, paid 20% HIGHER for food and utility bills that have gone UP 20%. The kicker on my electric bill is a surcharge to pay for green energy regulations to build alternate energy projects. Just another hidden tax that Obama don’t tell people about because people are DUMB. OH, I forgot to include the value of the dollar worth 20% less and value of my small house losing 25% of it’s value in the marketplace.

Followers of Obama believe that the president is doing a great job. Smoke and mirrors covered with a big dose of propaganda helped by the mainstream media and the press.

Americans wake up, seek the whole truth not just a half truth of what Obama is selling. THE RESULT IS POVERTY, HERE WE COME!Just another one of the 14.3 million group.

Have a great day

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

Jon, I have no issue with removing costly and unnecessary regulations as long as my demands for protection regarding health, safety and fairness in the marketplace is maintained. Obama offered major cuts 4 trillion, if I recall, with 3 trillion cuts in programs and 1 trillion from closing loopholes and asking the aristocrats to pay a modest increase in their tax rates. So don't blame the Dems. The cut, cut, cut, without consideration of other factors is dead on arrival for most of us.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

The all time misery index and poeverty rates are the outgrowth of a recession/depression unlike any in almost a century. I blame GOP ideological position and policies for getting us here and I can hardly blame Obama having been saddled with the outcomes from GOP profligacy. It seems to me that FDR and ronald Reagan were given more time to right the ship than this president is receiving. It appears to me that your disdain for Obama would be there even if he could walk on water. I can't and do not buy it, sorry Jon. We progressives know who are true enemies are...

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 7 months ago

Credence2

''Obama offered major cuts 4 trillion''

ONLY TALK, NEVER put on paper or submitted in detail.

ALL PROPAGANDA- SMOKE AND MIRRORS.

Wake up and find the whole truth, not just a half truth.

Try to have a good day.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

Sorry, Jon I have found the truth and it certainly has not come in from the poliical right Destroy our society's social compact so that Thurston Howell can have even more baubles at our expense. Yes, there is class warfare,alright, without a doubt and the political right and its aristocrats must be on placed on the losing end. With the occupy Wallstreet movements and such, we will put all the more pressure on the rightwing and its advocates. Exciting times, yes?

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 7 months ago

Credence2

How about letting us all in on where you found the truth.

Share your information with us so that we too can have the truth.

Please tell us the WHOLE TRUTH, not any half truths.Anxiously waiting.

Thanks in advance.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

Jon, I could help but notice in another thread how you admonished us all to watch out for misrepresentation by the media, who is your source for unerring information? The truth is not what you say it is. I am with HS totally, in regard to my opinion. And as I have said earlier he is a more eloquent representative of our shared point of than I. I need a plan to get people back to work NOW, Obama has proposed something what is the GOP offering beyond mere obstruction? Obama needs to make their obstanance known to the voters out there more effectively. I think he has learned the lesson of what happens when you try to negotiate with rightwingers...

PETER LUMETTA profile image

PETER LUMETTA Level 6 Commenter 7 months ago

Credence, Mr. Ewall seems to have the ear and the voice of the Almighty since he is laying claim to be the only one with "the Truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth". I think his ministry is lacking in followers though. Many have claimed "Divine Truth" but few have proven it. Even though he may claim not to be religious in intent he is in fact preaching. so no matter what anyone says his answer will always be "the One". Sorry for butting in but your discussion was going nowhere and will continue to do so, Thanks

Peter

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 7 months ago

Hi, Peter, as always, I am glad to see you. Jon and I have both have our own firmly held opinions. He says that I am biased in my choice of news sources, which is the mainstream media. Besides Faux news, i wonder what source he considers 'gospel' regarding the issues of the day? He seems to have an irrational disdain for Obama no matter he does or doesn't do. It is difficult to discuss things with other when one side has already arrived at a conclusion before anything can be discussed.

Vaya Con Dios, Peter Thanks Cred2

Xenonlit profile image

Xenonlit Level 6 Commenter 6 months ago

This is a well thought out and brave hub. It seems when anyone tells certain truths, the backwash can be overwhelming. Keep it up and don't quit!!

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

Obama continually blames the Republicans for delaying a jobs bill. The Republican CONTROLED HOUSE has sent the Harry Reid , Democrat controled Senate, some 15 jobs bills that HS has not even taken the time to put the legislation on the floor. Obama and company speak with forked tongue, the mainsteam media hasn't woke up yet,their silence is golden.

The people are getting a steady diet of OBAMA PROPERGANDA.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Xenonlit, thanks for reading and providing comment. I guess I made it strong to last long!

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Hello, Jon, if you are not getting this info from the mainstream media, where are you getting YOUR facts, now, don't tell me it is some rightwing rag. What makes your information and sources more credible?

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

If you get information from whitehouse.gov, you need to get out in the world and find out what I mean when I say '' the whole truth and nothing but the truth '' or '' a half truth is not a whole truth''. I recently reviewed some of my old hubs only to find out that Obama is still using the same old dung and fodder he used in 2008,2009,2010 and now again in 2011.

Hubbers get over it, come out of the dark and wake up!

Have a wonderful day and hoping that you all will find the TRUTH ONEDAY.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Jon, you still have not told me the source of your information? I am already wide awake, I afraid that the rightwinger will once again plunge us all into darkness.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

That was a terrific response, I loved it.

Try c-span, local business section of news papers, scan CNN and FOX news. Funny how the news looks from 2 sides. Try Saturday morning business programs. Some how Fox shows clips of the past and present of our favorite public servants. Not much of value from the blogs, many only give biased opinions. Looking at a website ,check who the principals are who are in charge. in the end use common sense truthful un biased reporting.

That's it my friend, love the reply.

That was a terrific response, I loved it.

Try c-span, local business section of news papers, scan CNN and Fox news. Funny how the news looks from 2 sides. Try Saturday morning business programs. Some how Fox shows clips of the past and present of our favorite public servants. Not much of value from the blogs, many only give biased opinions. Looking at a website ,check who the principals are and who are in charge. In the end use common sense truthful un biased reporting.

That's it my friend, love the reply.

PS all the rest of the mainstream media reporting is mostly liberal propaganda.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Thanks, Jon, I will keep that in mind regarding your sources. Is there such a thing as rightwing propaganda? In the face of that possibility how do we know what is true and what is fabricated?

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

Watch CAVUTO on Fox News during the week and on Sat. morning. CAVUTO will always have a Democrat and a Republican on at the same time, ask questions from both. Afterwards make your own decisions on what they say in relation to what President Obama is saying. Obama says good stuff but what his administration is doing don't coincide. On Monday, Nov 7, 2011, Obama held a rose garden press conference ( took no questions as usual) regarding Congress not passing his jobs bill. The President threatened Congress that if Congress don’t pass the veterans job act, he will take actions to pass the bill without Congress. Note that our Constitution don’t allow the President to make law. The President blaming Congress and the Republicans is not a truthful statement. The facts are that the Republican controlled House has passed 15 jobs bills, they are sitting in the Democrat controlled Senate. If Democrat Senator Reid don’t allow the bills to get to the floor for debate, amend or vote on, nothing moves forward. The Republican Senators have NO control in the Senate, hence they are not allowed to provide a vote. President Obama blaming the Republicans has not been truthful to the American people. Note that Obama NEVER mentions Democrats , who are holding up passage of the jobs bill.

The mainstream media does not report the whole story, sad to say.

HAVE A GOOD DAY

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

I hope this is not like Hannity and Colmes, where the progressive Colmes always looked like the fall guy. I don't trust Fox news, but for the sake of argument, I will check it out. Jon, executive orders are within the confines of the purvue of the president. This president is hardly the first to use them. They are a policy direction and cannot have the force of law involving public funds without congress. Most of us know that. The GOP does filibuster, in the Senate, requiring the 60 vote majority holding things up. Come on Jon, GOP is just no damned good, everybody that does not know it yet will find out when the President's strategy to expose the foot draggers to the public is made evident. The GOP have no real plan to provide jobs now, but are stalling for their own political advantage. Let's see how the voters assess the so called GOP resolve.

You, too , have a nice day!

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

Veterans Day was yesterday,11-11-11. Today the President and wife left for a nine day asian trip (vacation) to hawaii,bali and indonesia while the super committee works on how to cut $1.2 BILLION out of the budget, how covenient for him to leave the nation.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Sorry, Jon, I don't buy it. He is in the Pacific for a specific reason, a trade agreement to help with job issues. What are your conservatives doing sitting on their duffs. Seems like your dislike for Obama exceeds reason and you would not give him credit for anything. I don't trust rightwingers and I will always err on the side of Obama over the unsubstantiated criticism of his Opponents. So what was Bush doing on his ranch when he and your buddies drove the economy into the ground?

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

''I will always err on the side of Obama over the unsubstantiated criticism ''

WONDERING WHY OBAMA CAN'T LEAD? The Super committee needs to come to an agreement before thanksgiving, a continuing resolution to keep the government open is needed next week and a 2012 budget has not been presented by the Senate.

The President continues to blame Congress for not passing his jobs bill, mentioning only that the Republicans are the cause of why the bills are not passed.. The Republican House has passed 15 jobs bills that the Democrat Senate has not voted on as yet. Please tell the people that ''THE MAN '' is incompetent of performing the duties of the highest office in the land.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

I am satisfied as many of us on the left are with his current performance, thank you Jon

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

'' I am satisfied ..... with his current performance,''

WHAT do you consider his performance?

Can you list some?

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

I oonsider his performance admirable considering the sheer bulk of the mess left by his predecessor. This is the equivalent of Herbert Hoover/GWBush and FDR/Obama. Without rightwing obstruction, I am sure that he could do better. The problems we facenow have been in the making over the last 25 years. Do I really expect one man to solve all of it in 3. I will take my chances with him over any GOP, that is one thing on which you may rely.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

Will patiently hope for a reply.

The Senate passed a continuing resolution (a CR )TO FUND THE GOVERNMENT TO DEC. 15,2011.Obama and the Democrat contolled Senate has yet to pass a 2012 budget, wonder why?

The Republican House passed a bipartisan 2012 budget in Feb. as required by congressional rules.

SOMEBODY IN WASHINGTON ARE NOT DOING THE JOB.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

What democratic control, Jon? Your rightwing young guns in the house have been holding everything up. I not going to buy into fiction that the Dems are holding up the show. You guys just want Obama and the Dems to capitulate to your insane demands regarding what your side wants in regards to taxes and it ain't gonna happen. It the GOP that is being shown as time and time again not doing its job of negotiating and acceptable agreement.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

IF YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW OUR GOVERNMENT WORKS, you need to understand that the leader of the House and the Senate are in command of what bills and legislation gets to the floor to debate, amend and vote on. In order for the president (3rd party of control)to give his approval by signing a bill, both the House and the Senate needs to agree by voting to pass the legislation before any action by the president.

The Republican House has passed 15 jobs bills that are sitting in the Senate waiting for Democrat Senator Reid to act on, meaning a debate and vote.

The President ,if he told the whole truth would not be complaining about the Republicans, it is his party that is the hold-up to getting any thing accomplished.

With due respect, please find another source of information and I mean no offense to you in anyway.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

No offense taken, Jon, But you are hardly impartial in this debate and I have seen you frequently in HS' parlour debating roughly the same thing. I may not be as well as versed as he is in the fine points of government operations., but I read his articles and posts and my opinion is congruent with his on 99% of points discussed. i will look into your Fox news reference, seriously and be as objective as I can. I do not have to be a Rhodes Scholar to know not only today but over many years which party has been the biggest pain in my rear. The one I distrust to a greater extent. I have written many articles in regard to the rightwinger, conservatives and the GOP, check them out sometime if you seek understanding. You were for the cut cap and balance? Then you are way outside my ideological and political comfort zone. Sorry, HS is better at stripping you bare and getting you to tell us what you have conveniently omitted in your attacks on the President and the Dems.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

Thank you for your response. For all one sided hubbers, I was a longtime registered Democrat, recently changed to Independent. HS and others have attacked my writings as right-winger, sad to say .What I write are facts, many of the attackers don't reply to what I write. They are entitled to their opinions which in most cases are not the whole truth but a half truth similar to what the president does when he speaks to the public.

Take notice that in many of his press conferences he leaves without ALLOWING QUESTIONS.

I always enjoy a debate with HS, TELL HIM I MISS THE ACTION.

GA Anderson profile image

GA Anderson 6 months ago

@ Credence 2 - Is there room in this sandbox for one more?

before I start, an aside - hey guy - throw a few paragraph breaks in Part II - my eyes are wore out from reading this one.

But it was a good one - (except for the paragraph formatting)

I do not support Pres. Obama's agenda for social change, I don't agree with any type of forced wealth redistribution.

But I also don't agree with many of the right wing's pro-business mantras either, nor do I agree with responses that are merely reiterations of tired talking points.

I do agree with the "pull yourself up by your bootstraps"

theory of self-improvement, but do understand some folks might not even have bootstraps, or the strength to pull on them - so they may need a little help.

In the discussion of welfare programs and recipients, both in your hub and the comments here, why is no one mentioning that there are more white folks enrolled in the social assistance programs than blacks?

Referencing Pres. Obama's lack of accomplishments due to congressional obstructionism (ie. Republican), what about the almost three years that Democrats controlled both houses, and the Executive branch? Don't blame it all on the Republicans.

High marks to him for his handling of his Commander-in-Chief responsibilities though. I was very worried about several of those type issues when he was elected.

I hope you don't get too caught-up in the "rich don't pay their fair share" thing, unless you can define what their fair share is of course.

It appears to me that Democrats/Progressives live by the credo - spend what we need to get what we want, (ie. programs), and then just take the money we need from wherever we can get it. As the saying goes... when you rob Peter to pay Paul, Paul ain't going to complain.

On the other hand - the Republicans are as "bought" by BIG Money and BIG Business, as the Democrats are "bought" by the BIG Money Special interests(read: Unions)

So I would just as soon throw them all out and start over.

That was just a long-winded attempt to get acquainted, I liked your well-thought our effort, above, salient and articulate, and anticipate a few more visits.

GA

ps. don't forget those paragraph breaks

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Nothing personal Jon, but I have a lot reasons to distrust the GOP, their platform, their ideology and their current candidates. There are plenty of hubs that point in that direction. With the possible exception of Jon Huntsman, I will take my chances with Obama before I trust any Republican.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

It was reported today that the US government ‘’taxpayers ‘’ owe the social security trust fund $2.66 trillion. The President and the Democrats believe money grows on trees somewhere in Washington.

The Democrats in 2007 won majority control of Congress, the recession started in Dec. of 2007. Just now viewed a news clip ,July 14, 2008, of Congressman Frank on CNBC telling the public that Fannie and Freddie Macs were not in trouble of failing. Today Congressman Frank was on MSNBC blaming the Republicans for Fannie and Freddie’s failure. The difference between the parties, the Dems continually are blaming others while the other side is trying to solve the problems without blaming the Dems, so funny.

It is remarkable to always blame the Republicans when the Democrats have had 2/3’s control of our government since 2007.The Democrats passed Tarp, the Stimulus, take over of Student Loan programs, Dodd/ Frank banking regulations and the Healthcare Bill, all without the help of the Republicans. THEY JUST ADDED $4.5 TRILLION to the national debt without a return on the investment.

The Healthcare bill was passed by intimidation and deal making for votes. The 72 hours to review the bill was rammed thru with members not even reading the bill or debating the unwritten bill that was not on the House floor as required by House rule.

Famous words of wisdom from Speaker Pelosi ’’ we need to pass the bill so that we will know what’s in it ’’.

The people should demand that the super committee hold the coming meetings OPEN to the public .The public needs to find the truth of what is actually happening behind closed doors. Call your representative and demand to open meetings. President Obama promised a transparent and open administration and government. Just another broken promise!

Please excuse the long reply.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Greetings GAAnderson, in reply

@ Credence 2 - Is there room in this sandbox for one more?---------------------------

There is most certainly room; you honor this humble one immensely. Come visit my parlor and have a cup of tea. I see that you are a professional writer. I appreciate your comments and always look to hone my skills. So, you think that I should have more paragraph breaks? Thanks, I will do it next time. ________________________

I do not support Pres. Obama's agenda for social change, I don't agree with any type of forced wealth redistribution.

-------------------------------------------------------

Well, we have to respectfully disagree. Then you must be, in principle, opposed to the 16th Amendment and how it has been administered over the past century.

--------------------------------------------------

But I also don't agree with many of the right wing's pro-business mantras either, nor do I agree with responses that are merely reiterations of tired talking points.

----------------------------------------------------

Most naturally, I have problems with the rightwing and political conservatism in general as it has been practiced over the last 30 years. This hard line stuff is far from the days of the fiscal responsibility focus of the Rockerfeller GOP of old.

------------------------

I do agree with the "pull yourself up by your bootstraps"

theory of self-improvement, but do understand some folks might not even have bootstraps, or the strength to pull on them - so they may need a little help.

In the discussion of welfare programs and recipients, both in your hub and the comments here, why is no one mentioning that there are more white folks enrolled in the social assistance programs than blacks?

I do not give Blacks a free-pass, as I recognize that many of our problems are our own doing. I have expressed that in the second part of this article. The conservatives need to show more of us how their approach to the economy is going to provide that bit of help that you mentioned. If the GOP wants to be more successful with minorities, these kinds of issues need to be addressed in a credible way. I remember, fondly, the efforts of the late Jack Kemp and his urban enterprise zones. As far as why no one mentions the fact that there are more whites on the program than blacks? The howling electronic mobs were not interested in actual statistics, but stereotypes that do not represent the reality. Most of the die hard right-wingers acknowledge that fact of more whites on the programs, but still slight minorities for using the programs in disproportionately larger numbers, But in my article, I explained why.

----------------------------------------------

Referencing Pres. Obama's lack of accomplishments due to congressional obstructionism (ie. Republican), what about the almost three years that Democrats controlled both houses, and the Executive branch? Don't blame it all on the Republicans.

----------------------------------------

I can only hold Obama accountable since Jan, 2009. Bush controlled the Executive from Jan 2007 to Jan. 2009. I blame the GOP because they are showing the least desire to compromise and negotiate between the two parties, and that is crucial is we are all going to benefit. I have more than my fair share of rants directed at why I believe is nothing is happening in Washington.

_______________________________

High marks to him for his handling of his Commander-in-Chief responsibilities though. I was very worried about several of those type issues when he was elected.

I think that he doing the best he can under the current circumstances. I did not expect FDR to dig the country out from the Great Depression in a matter of months. This downturn is akin to it and in many ways worse because the society lacks the kind of cohesion that we had so long ago. People are much more isolated today in trying to deal with economic problems.

_________________________________________

I hope you don't get too caught-up in the "rich don't pay their fair share" thing, unless you can define what their fair share is of course.

As a progressive accepting the efficacy of a progressive income tax, it can be determined what is a ‘fair share’, I believe. As I have spoken to in other articles, Government costs money. But, of course, if you do not believe in the Income Tax as established by constitutional amendment agreed to by the majority of the states, there cannot be a ‘fair share’.

__________________________________

It appears to me that Democrats/Progressives live by the credo - spend what we need to get what we want, (ie. programs), and then just take the money we need from wherever we can get it. As the saying goes... when you rob Peter to pay Paul, Paul ain't going to complain.

The GOP has not been the sterling example of fiscal responsibility the last 8 years prior to Obama, preemptive wars, a bloated military structure, irresponsible tax cuts in the face of rising government expenses. Everybody has their sacred cows, I will err on the side of those that most closely benefit the “man in the street” and not Thurston Howell III .

---------------------------------------------------

On the other hand - the Republicans are as "bought" by BIG Money and BIG Business, as the Democrats are "bought" by the BIG Money Special interests(read: Unions)

I am going to support the party that although not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, is lesser of two evils. That party is the Democrats.

____________________________________________

So I would just as soon throw them all out and start over.

I often express frustration with the political process in general and often times believe that we are all ‘being played’ by both sides. But each party has fundamental ideological differences which are shown by how its members vote and what they vote for and why… The GOP appear to favor aristocrats over the masses. It is not just posturing but seem to be the direction of their policy positions.

_______________________

That was just a long-winded attempt to get acquainted, I liked your well-thought our effort, above, salient and articulate, and anticipate a few more visits.

I look forward to becoming better acquainted and am more than willing to step away from the left bank to find the truth, as necessary. Again, praise from a master is most gratifying.

Cred2

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

VERY VERY GOOD! Maybe you are closing in on the middle of the road.Check out Cavuto on Fox News during the week and give me an opinion.

Be good and have a terrific thanksgiving holiday.

GA Anderson profile image

GA Anderson 6 months ago

@Credence2 LOL - My eyes thank you. Just to be clear on one point.

I believe in the betterment of society, but I am not in line with with is usually label progressive/liberal ideas of what that is.

As for our views differing - isn't that a great thing! The ability to do so and still live in the same societal group is much better than the historical examples of the alternative.

GA

I am also not a Republican - what logic is there in supporting a dog that is biting you - just because he isn't sharing you with the rest of the pack?

No, I don't oppose the 16th - taxes are necessary, and it is easy to understand the hardship it would be, and the inability that is a reality, for too many families to have to come up with a mulit-thousand dollar check at tax time.

GA Anderson profile image

GA Anderson 6 months ago

oops - the order of my last response got jumbled in edit - but I'm sure you can piece it together

GA

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Jon, who is responsible for the Social Security shortfall, are not both sides involved in using the SS Fund as a piggy bank to avoid adult spending choices such as austerity or raising taxes? I agree that transparency should be the watchword for the activities of the Super Committee

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Jon, As for Cavato on Fox, I will try to catch the program on line and we will see. Thanks

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

GA, I am most anxious in seeing what would your version of nirvana for America, if there really is such a thing?

We may well be looking at the same bowl of fruit, I see apples and you, oranges. Let's find out why. I can better understand your philosophy and reexamine my own as well. I look forward to the exchange

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

''both sides involved in using the SS Fund ''It started with the President Johnson administration.The answer is yes they both are guilty.

A copy of an e-mail that I sent to the Speaker,Senator Reid and all members of the super committee on Sat.

Dear Speaker Boehner/ Senate Leader Reid

The President promised open and transparent government. The Super Committee working behind closed doors have not agreed to a resolution on the deficit and 2012 budget.

We the people have had enough of the statements coming from the party leaders.

We the people DEMAND that future meetings of the Super Committee be held in OPEN session without any censure of the proceedings. It is important for we the people to witness each sides positions in the debate.

We the people will be making a decision in the near future as to whom we will cast a vote for in the coming months. To deny our request would be a dereliction of duty to the electorate who sent you to Washington.

You are the 2 leaders in Congress who have the power to grant our request to open meetings. There should be complete cooperation in the matter.

Sincerely,

Troubled voters and taxpayers.

It’s time for Congress to make the cuts necessary to approve the agreement. There is $9 trillion in waste in the government, cutting $ 4 trillion should not be a problem. It was reported today that the US government ‘’taxpayers ‘’ owe the social security trust fund $2.66 trillion.

THE TIME FOR BIPARTISANSHIP IS NOW!

PASS IT ON, IF YOU BELIEVE IN WE THE PEOPLE.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Jon, on your last comment, I agree wholeheartedly. It looks like the SC is in stall mode. They better get it together soon or automatic cuts are to be expected and the GOP is already nervous about the defense cuts that they will have to live with because their could not come to an agreement with the Dems. Happy holidays to you as well.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

It's all about smoke and mirrors, the cuts if it happens don't take effect until 2013.The Democrat/Obama plan is a stall tactic, the Obama administration continues spending while the Senate delays voting on job legislation passed by the House. President Obama held a press conference today, Nov. 21,2011, again blaming the Republicans when it is the Senate's inability to act on legislation passed in the House. Typical Obama press conference where no questions are allowed from the news media. Congress next move should be to start cutting waste out of government,$4 TRILLION for starters.

Thomas Thyros 6 months ago

Hello credence,

First, let me say this is a great hub and it is well said and well thought out. Secondly, I am Caucasian and live in the Mid-West; an area where racism and all manner of prejudices seem to be acceptable; however, I am not, nor do I condone or accept these.

When one begins to consider racism in all of its malevolent stations, only the closed-minded see it as a correct or moral thought. Racism, indeed prejudice, knows no intellectual level or station in life. No authority needs to be given to the angle of spin which may be put upon it, nor from which group or entity from which it is extended; prejudice is wrong and rotten to its very core.

It is unfortunate, that in our times, race is still an accepted mode of argument; a route to take on a troublesome issue, or a weapon to be wielded at the hands of someone less than informed about the subject for which they argue. It is often the libretto of troglodytes who lay their problems at the feet of those they wish not to understand. Therefore, it is assimilated into the political arguments of today, just as it has been throughout our nation’s history.

There is no doubt as to the extended period of time for which the African-American has endured the darkness of oppression and financial hardship. These facts are charted throughout our history and continue to be a chartable issue today. If you will allow, I wish also to include another segment of the populous into these numbers, that of whites, those poor in station, in rural America.

As aforementioned, I live in a small town in the Mid-West. Here, we continue to experienced much of the same plight as other minorities. Education is cut off from these people and the unemployment rates are calamitous. Here, we are experiencing unemployment rates at depression era levels. There are no jobs to be found and many have alighted to other areas of the country to find relief. The reason I bring this to your attention is not to belittle or equate your argument, but only to inform that these people are many times forgotten. Our media, (which I too question as to their liberality) as well as our government, only speak of the “middle-class,” thus leaving the poor and worker poor completely out of the issue.

While I support the Occupy movement, I believe that if it were not for the middle-class becoming affected by our present economic plight, the much-maligned poor and working poor would still be a forgotten group. In the end, these whites, have not the advantages for which some may think they are accustomed, nor is the experience something removed from their grasp as a result of our governments ineptitude.

It is correct that those in the disenfranchised groups must work much harder to sustain their families and themselves. Additionally, while there are many blacks using social services, many poor and working poor are as well, regardless of color or creed. However, this should not be viewed as some kind of a deduction of the human being. For, survival is embedded within the genetics of every one of us, and those who point a condemnatory finger at those who are less fortunate, should be relegated to these lower stations for a time to gain some understanding of these trails.

In closing, it is this writers belief that race should never be an ax used to chop at the neck of a problem…societal or otherwise. It is prejudice, in all of its many renderings, that is causative of many or most of our present happenings and problems. Prejudice is the demon guarding the gate of avariciousness, and it bites at the flesh of anyone it deems a threat. It is present in the racial problems we experience still today, and it is present in our current class war as well.

Thanks for posting your Hub.

Thomas Thyros.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Funny thing Jon, I blame the GOP for not seriously addressing the issue of revenue enhancements. I believe the GOP is just stalling hoping that they can get a congressional majority next year so that can be free as they want. I would not count on it though, and MSNBC pole put the blame solidly on the GOP for failure to negotiate in resounding numbers. Check it out Happy holidays

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/21/89

GA Anderson profile image

GA Anderson 6 months ago

@Credence2 - I'm surprised at you!

Revenue enhancements? Come on say the real words - tax increases!

and seriously - MSNBC? Would you expect them to announce a poll with any other outcome? about the same chance as Fox news announcing a negative GOP poll.

Even so - You are correct on the point that the GOP has blame to shoulder - but only half of it.

The Dems get the other half for their obstinate behavior also.

SC was a doomed blame game from the beginning - the only thing either side was bargaining for was the upper hand.

GA

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

‘’I blame the GOP ‘’ so does President Obama and the Democrats. The failure is ALL President Obama’s failure to show up to the party! Wow, why BLAME THE PRESIDENT?

IF ONE UNDERSTANDS how legislation becomes law , you can agree that the President has failed to provide the leadership necessary ( a third party ) to arrive at a solution to FINALIZE a deal between the rival ideologies.

The founders of the US Constitution produced a document ( US Constitution ) that provided checks and balances in how the government makes laws. Congress, the House and the Senate, must agree on legislation before the legislation goes to the President for his signature. Without the agreement by ALL 3 PARTIES nothing becomes law, THAT’S A FACT.

The super committee was made up of equal members of each party who failed to arbitrate an AGREEMENT to present to the President (3rd party ). President Obama was AWOL in the final days of the debate and in addition of not providing his leadership to wrap up a deal to solve the problems. Shameful neglect of his duties as the President.

Today, Nov.22, 2011 while campaigning in New Hampshire , President Barack Obama again blamed the Republicans for the failure of the Super Committee , forgetting to place any blame on members of his own party. One can recall some of Obama’s past words ,’’ THE BUCK STOPS HERE’’. Somehow one can see through him and who he really has become. Remember these words, ‘’ you can fool some of the people some of the time but you can’t fool all the people all the time’’.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Thanks Thomas for reading and providing so thoughtful a reply.

I will say Thomas that the onslaught of ignorance as you allude to by so many was overwhelming and impossible to ignore. Your inference that racism is the “handle” used by the frightened and uncertain is simplistic as only superficial evaluation of the issue at hand is required. I knew that this existed, but so many? People are oftentimes intellectually lazy so it is simpler to apply a label over employing critical thinking skills.

Thomas, the truth may well be that we are all being manipulated by malevolent forces that seek to divide and conquer. They will have us fuss over the crumb that fall from the table of bounty, but if we could only see what goodies were actually on the table from which the crumb fell. It may not so much be black and white but more black and red. It comes down to have verses have not. Being white is no longer the advantage it once was, not to say that we necessarily benefited as minority groups. Poor and non-affluent is the same, now whether you are black, white or anything else. The middle class is getting the attention, as they holler the loudest. The society is full of people who get by marginally, working more than one job a day, still to find themselves under the poverty line. But, as I have said in my article, the sheer numbers reflect most poorly on blacks and Hispanics, generally. It is not intended to rule out others.

Blacks have been slow in the beginning to work with Occupy simply due to the fact that the things that middle class whites complain about have always been par for the course for us and nothing new. Of course, now that so many that have always had the voice and prerogative have fallen from grace… It is much like that story of the missing Caucasian woman in Aruba. Look at all the press the story received, there are probably many more minority or poor women that disappear every day and that hardly merits a whisper

In a consumer based society like ours there is a stigma associated with not having or not having enough. The message is sent to us consciously and subconsciously everyday. Thurston Howell is never going to acknowledge that he too could find himself among the unfortunate. They too, are afflicted in their own way, for them to not have is equal to not being, there is a better chance of the earth reversing its rotation. It’s inconceivable to them

It could well turn out that in the class warfare that the conservatives say that progressives are fomenting, it is analogous to attacking Iraq in retaliation for 9/11, instead of Afghanistan. Class warfare is not new, in fact it is as old as the pharaohs. The real question is can there be a fair balance of power between groups. One side cannot dominate to the annihilation of the other side.

Again Thomas thanks for weighing in… Cred2

Thomas Thyros 6 months ago

Hello Cred2: All valid points for sure. It is too bad people cannot step aside of themselves and experience the world through the eyes and emotions of those they oppress or defame. This, of course, would be the ultimate in understanding. However, since we have not this ability, (nor do I think that it is a necessity) we have to understand that we are all of mankind.

The best way to remove the “crumb” analogy, is to remove the table itself from the equation. A leveling, if you will, to cause a conjoined existence. Some religions speak of the races being separated by God for a reason. They point to this as their escape from responsibility. However, they miss the inference that we are “all of one blood.”

This prejudice, this racism, has baffled this writer for the entirety of his life. I, in the past, studied the KKK and several other racialist groups at length trying to get an understanding of why these people proclaim their ideology as right. I came up empty handed of deeper understanding, and remorseful that these people and their progeny were amongst us. It is unfortunate that even the media tends to these lines to some extent. It has not been lost on me either of the unbalanced coverage between black and white, on whatever the issue or occurrence. The thing is…will these depressive prejudices ever be removed from the psyche of mankind?

Thanks for commenting back, the fan mail, and following. I, too, look forward to our conversations.

Thomas Thyros.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Hi, GA, just using the term which sounds so much less painful. It was coined during the Reagan-Bush I years.

I did try to take into consideration, MSNBC's so called liberal bias, but the sheer difference in the numbers are astonishing. I bet FOX news would not do a comparable survey for fear that the results would upset its conservative audience.

We may have to agree to disagree on this one, seems to me that the GOP was much more obstinate about taxes than the Dems were about cutting spending

http://credence2.hubpages.com/hub/Tea-Party-Intran

Be warned, it cuts deep!Thanks Cred2

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Jon, As I understand it the president was advised to stay away during the process. After all, these are big boys and girls that knew the score.

There is no way that the Dems are going to allow the GOP to make drastic cuts over social programs, virtually destroying them, without some serious concession on tax revenue. It is dead in the water.

The president did not lack leadership and the GOP continues in its obstinancy. We are just going to have to settle this at the polls,next year. OWS will help keep the issues involved in sharp focus for everybody.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

I have looked at the concept of racism for a long time. Perhaps it is just human nature to favor those that look and believe as you do.

We all have to rise to higher plane to recognize that this culture will unravel unless fairness and equality is available to all within it.

I may walk around the house in my BVDs, but once I am outside I am properly attired in the respect of others. There are still too many people that believe that it is appropriate to walk around outdoors in their BVDs

It is much about power and control, but it has adverse effects on those that practice it. The energy so many spend in this control could best be channeled in the interests of coexistence, since each of us only have one life and we can live on only one planet. (In terms of current technology)

Thanks again, Cred2

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Cred2

Just to fill you in to the past:

On 9/28/11, Senator Reid announced that he will not bring up the President's Job Bill to the Senate floor. Senator Reid sponsored the bill in the Senate and it is becoming clearer that the Republicans are not holding up passage of the Jobs Bill as the president says on the campaign trail. President Obama needs to make a call to Senator Reid.

On 11/23/11, IN RESPONSE TO PRESIDENT OBAMA'S accusations, Speaker Boehner requested Obama to instruct Senator Reid to pass the 25 jobs bills passed by the House sitting in the Senate. The true battle is all about a Pay-Go law passed by Congress. The democrats want to spend more without cutting somewhere to pay for the spending.

The mainstream media and press has not reported the events. One needs to get by the propaganda being fed to the people by President Obama & company.

2/13/10 2:04 PM EST NOTE ! TODAY IS NOV. 23,2011

President Barack Obama is hailing pay-as-you-go BUDGET legislation he

signed Friday night as one in a series of crucial steps needed to snap

Washington out of a destructive pattern of overspending.

“Now, Congress will have to pay for what it spends, just like everybody

else,” Obama said in his radio and Internet address released Saturday

morning. “After a decade of profligacy, the American people are tired of

politicians who talk the talk but don’t walk the walk when it comes to

fiscal responsibility. It’s easy to get up in front of the cameras and RANT

against exploding deficits. What’s hard is actually getting deficits under

control. But that’s what we must do.”

The PAYGO compels NEW spending or tax changes to not add to the

federal deficit. Not to be confused with pay-as-you-go financing, which

is when a government saves up money to fund a specific project. Under

the PAYGO rules a new proposal must either be "budget neutral"

or offset with savings derived from existing funds.[1] The goal of this

is to require those in control of the budget to engage in the diligence of

prioritizing expenses and exercising fiscal restraint. The interest on

the national debt is $1 billion a day and rising. The unfunded

liabilities of the country is $104 trillion.

The Republicans simply don’t want to break the law, they are fighting for the TAXPAYERS.

Obama and the Democrats don’t tell you the whole truth, do they?

Note that the House has approved a 2012 budget, the President and the Senate has not. ONLY 1/3 of our government is working, the other 2/3’s want to talk and BLAME THE OTHER GUY.

GA Anderson profile image

GA Anderson 6 months ago

@credence2 - followed your link....damnn...

It was obvious that you had a point you wanted to make, but I am not familiar enough with this "Norquest(?)" thing, yet, to comment specifically, but I will return there when I have more time.

It was only a quick read, as I said time is tight, but it did seem a little overstated

as to the OP here, yes we will have to agree to disagree.

seems true the GOP did have their feet planted, reasonable or not

but it also seems the cuts the Dems are touting as "honest efforts" to compromise weren't really cuts at all, but reductions in proposed increases.

but, let me qualify that - gotta admit that is a very topical response, I haven't really dug beyond the shouted accusations of either side yet

from the beginning the SC thingie seemed like just such obvious political theater that I never really got interested enough to dig deeper.

to me, even its creation was an embarrassment, and the outcome is no less than I would have expected.

hmmm... still think it's a circle-jerk, so I probably won't look any deeper. It's yours if you want it.

talk to ya later

GA

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Pay-GO sounds fine on the surface, Jon. I need to do aliitle research on the subject in regards to what it is you're not telling me.

The GOP is the very antithesis of fiscal responsibility. They too have their run on the piggy bank, just in different areas.

Your precious DOD is now going to be subject to the knife, that is a pay-go I can live with.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Sounds fine, John, we will talk again, Cred2

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

CRED2

2/13/10 NOTE ! TODAY IS NOV. 25,2011

President Barack Obama is hailing pay-as-you-go BUDGET legislation he signed Friday night as one in a series of crucial steps needed to snap Washington out of a destructive pattern of overspending.

Simply a beautiful move before the Nov 2010 election. CRED2 IT'S ALL ABOUT SMOKE AND MIRRORS.

Do you remember Obama approved the Bush Tax cuts, later on after the election he said he shouldn't have passed the legislation.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

CRED2

Black Heroes in American History

Save our Country

http://www.foxnews.com/on-air/glenn-beck/index.htm/v/4256317/black-heroes-in-american-history/?playlist_id=163229

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Jon, if Obama had not approved extension of the Bush tax cuts, then all those receiving unemployment benefits would have been cut off by the GOP, if memory serves.

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Jon, the link you gave me was Glen Beck's farewall show, did not see anything about black heroes in American history.

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

Credence2

WHEN YOU GET TO THE SITE LOOK IN THE OTHER VIDEOS.

It's in'' Founders' Fridays (11 videos) ''

check becks other videos. the red phone line was a direct to the whitehouse. idea was if he did not report the truth , the white house can call to correct him online. the PHONE NEVER RANG!

Credence2 profile image

Credence2 Hub Author 6 months ago

Thanks, Jon, I will try again...

GA Anderson profile image

GA Anderson 6 months ago

@Jon Ewall - your mention of the "red phone - direct line" was a tongue-in-cheek" reference wasn't it?

You don't really think it was anything more than a gimmick do you?

I was a HUGE Beck fan, until his format for his message changed - he went off the deep end with the religious tone. And he got too "cutsey" with the sarcasm.

I was a diligent viewer during the series of shows with the "red phone", and I cringed every time he tried to use that to validate his point. It was a ploy - nothing more.

GA

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

GA

''validate his point. It was a ploy - nothing more.''

Yes it was to validate the truth about what he was saying. Are you aware that president Obama predicted what is happening in the middle east and what has happened on wallstreet and other city protests?

Beck exposed Soros, the AFL-CIO and SEIU unions, the media and what our dear President is doing to the country.

I heard he is on the internet. CHECK THIS SITE, a little background info.http://www.discoverthenetworks.org/printgroupProfi

GA Anderson profile image

GA Anderson 6 months ago

@Jon - thanks for the effort to find and post the link

but...I would not have been an avid Beck viewer if I doubted the accuracy of his points - I believe he presented many important "connections" the public would not have known without him

but... I still believe the "red phone" was a silly gimmick

GA

JON EWALL profile image

JON EWALL Level 7 Commenter 6 months ago

GA Anderson

''

but... I still believe the "red phone" was a silly gimmick' yes , I guess so.

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