Friday, May 31, 2019
May 31, 2019 updates.
Saudi Arabia is having an emergency meeting with other nations. The purpose of the meeting is obvious. They want to confront Iran. Iran is not mostly Arabic in terms of ethnicity. Most Iranians are descendants heavily of the Medes and the Persians. Iranians speak an Indo-European language. Therefore, most Iranians are non-Arabic peoples. The overarching issue is this: Saudi Arabia wants Sunni hegemony in the Middle East while most Iranians are Shia. Iran is allied with Iraq since Iraq is heavily Shia. Trump helped to shut down the Iranian nuclear deal that the Obama administration originally established. Therefore, Trump wants a more hard-line approach in dealing with Iran. Bolton has accused Iranian forces of attacking oil areas and planning attacks. Bolton is a known neo-con who has made aggressive, war mongering statements about Iran for years, even before Barack Obama was elected President. Sunnis and Shias are like Catholics and Protestants. Both Sunnis and Shias believe in Islam, but they have different interpretations of the successors of Muhammad. That is where the split took place early in Islamic history.Therefore, some in Saudi Arabia have a deep rooted animus towards some Iranians (and vice versa). These complex foreign policy matters require sober reasoning and learning about complex issues. We don't need Sunnis and Shias at each other in a contentious relationship. We want peace in the Middle East. That peace is going to require dialogue, constant communication, progressive political policies, and no war mongering agenda.
Centrism under the guise of "pragmatism" doesn't work because of many reasons. One reason is that a clock or patience shouldn't define a person's freedom. Freedom should be given to humanity by birthright. If you rely around another person for your freedom, you'll never be truly free. If anyone suppresses someone's legitimate freedoms or rights, then that is a violation of the democratic spirit of liberty. Also, pragmatism or centrism never caused the revolutionary changes in human history. Women never gotten the right to vote in America by centrism. It was won by protests, civil disobedience, and other radical actions. The Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act were never created by pragmatism. It was created by men, women, and children who risked their lives for the rights of black people. A lot of people died for the right to vote and for the abolishment of Jim Crow apartheid in America. The workplace protections, the elimination of child labor, and the 40 hour work week was achieved by protests, demands, and courage not centrism or pragmatism. In our generation, we face criminal justice issues. Those issues require local, state, and federal policies that deals with bail, laws, and systematic racism that is found in the criminal justice system. Therefore, the revolutionary mentality is necessary to make the Dream real for people.
Robert Mueller gave a historic speech at a press conference today during Wednesday morning. Mueller said that if he wanted to say that Trump committed no crime, he would have said so explicitly. Therefore, Mueller wanted the charge of obstruction of justice to be sent to Congress for determination. Congress does have the responsibility and the right to impeach Trump for various reasons (from obstructing justice, lying explicitly about many issues, being hostile to subpoenas, and trying to make officials lie for the purpose of ending the Mueller investigation). Mueller (who made the point that he choose his words carefully in his report) stated that his investigation is officially over, and that he couldn't personally indict Trump since he doesn't have the authority to do that (based upon legal protocol). The speech was very important, since it made the point that legal processes are necessary to handle political controversies.
To Mueller, Department policies regulated his actions. His report is filled with hundreds of pages. Mueller never cleared President Trump of obstruction of justice. After his statement, many Democratic candidates immediately have called for Congress to commence with impeachment hearings. This speech deals with the probe on Russian election tampering, corrupt Trump officials, and other issues. Mueller said that he will resign from the Department of Justice and return to private life. Some want Robert Mueller to testify to Congress. The overall point is that the democratic principle of no one being above the law must be enforced by Congress. Trump, in my view, should be impeached.
Tomorrow, it will be June. June is African American Music Appreciation Month or Black Music History Month. For a long time, black people have shown music that reaches into our souls and dealt with many topics. Mahalia Jackson was the greatest gospel vocalist ever with her songs on spirituality. Aretha Franklin made records that wanted respect and true love. Stevie Wonder's songwriting and music are universally respected by people globally. Rakim has shown excellent lyricism for decades. Also, music is diverse. Black people are found in hip hop, R&B, country, jazz, rock, funk, blues, disco, house, techno, reggae, rumba, samba, etc. That is why investments in music and the arts are very important. Music can inspire us to do things, and it can expand our creativity. Studies have always presented research on the beneficial characteristics of music on human beings. Also, it is important to reiterate that music is not limited based upon age or generation. There are tons of human beings who are young and old that are displaying magnificent music. Therefore,the greatness of us is that we are multifaceted in our Blackness. We can perform music, be involved in STEM fields, write, study, and help our communities at the same time. Black music is always a blessing.
By Timothy
Thursday, May 30, 2019
Wednesday, May 29, 2019
Updates on the world.
The racism and anti-immigrant hysteria in America is not new. The super wealthy have always used racism, xenophobia, and class oppression as a means to not only divide people but to maintain control. Oligarchy is evil since it's a system dedicated to allow a few corporate interests (and political leaders) to control the vast majority of the wealth on Earth. Back in the day, my ancestors were kidnapped, placed in chains, and sent to America against their wills. Many big banks and even some universities financially benefited from my ancestors' oppression. Later, the No Nothing Party used xenophobic rhetoric. There were many eugenicists back in the 20th century who were some of the most vicious haters of non-white immigration into America. During the Gilded Age, many large corporations used bad working conditions, child labor, and lax worker protections. That is why activists came forward to defeat such evils. Today, we have anti-racist movements and other social activists desiring true freedom fro humanity. It is obvious that there are more of us than then. The 1% benefits from fear, apathy, and pessimism. After over 35 years living on this Earth, I always have hope for the future. In the final analysis, oppression is very diverse and inter-sectional. Therefore, we have to be multifaceted in our approach yet unified in the same goal of human liberation.
The House failed to pass a disaster relief bill since GOP lawmakers blocked it. We know about the GOP. Many of them believe in the myth that the free market is some magical force that can handle situations without intervention. Some in the GOP care more for ideological purity than using money to save innocent lives who are the victims of natural disasters. There is no question that those in the Midwest, who are the victims of flooding, tornadoes, storms, hail, etc., must be respected of their human dignity. We all have great, profound empathy for the victims of such tragedies. That is what we are as human beings. We harbor respect and dignity for our fellow neighbors. The bill has $19.1 billion of relief for families and other people. Congress ought to do its job.
There are many people selling their blood plasma in order to receive money for basic necessities like food, water, and housing. Giving too much blood and plasma can cause a human being to have weakness, low protein count, kidney damage, and fainting. A 2018 study by researchers at Case Western Reserve University found that states with a higher number of plasma donation centers were also more likely to have a higher population of low-income and minimum-wage workers. In our time, we witness record income inequality. While the rich receives huge, inordinate privilege and bailouts, the poor and the working class struggle for living wages. It is not right for some to work two or three jobs just to have some standard of living. When I was in Los Angeles weeks ago, one taxi driver told me that some in LA have to work 2 or 3 jobs just to survive on renting an apartment. That's renting. A man or a woman ought to work just one full time job to receive life saving services. Regardless of what anyone says, health care is a fundamental human right, not a privilege. That means that children, adults, and anyone ought to get basic, quality, and strong health care. We congratulate any worker or anyone who is doing the right thing, playing by the rules, and achieving magnanimous accomplishments by their own strength. Likewise, we know that the world isn't an Utopia. We don't have a true meritocracy. Therefore, structural change is necessary to address the many problems of the world.
She is a modern day icon who not only performed in stages worldwide. She also contributed heavily to the establishment of Soul Train. She was born in the South, so she knew about Jim Crow and other situations. Likewise, her passion for music is always trailblazing and excellent. She is Sister Gladys Knight, and it was her Birthday yesterday. She was born in Atlanta, Georgia. Being 75 years old, she has lived a long life. Many of her relatives were musicians. In 1961, Knight and her group recorded the single, "Every Beat of My Heart", which was written for Knight by R&B producer Johnny Otis. By 1966, Gladys Knights and the Pips joined Motown. Her vocals are out of this world. She and her group made tons of classic hits like: "Friendship Train" (1969), "If I Were Your Woman" (1970), "I Don't Want To Do Wrong" (1971), the Grammy Award-winning "Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye)" (1972), etc. The song the Midnight Train to Georgia is another one of her iconic records. Gladys Knight has an exceptional solo career too. In April 2004, Knight performed during the VH1's benefit concert Divas Live 2004 alongside Ashanti, Cyndi Lauper, Jessica Simpson, Joss Stone, and Patti LaBelle, in support of the Save the Music Foundation. She has many children and has one husband named William McDowell. She has grandchildren and great-grandchildren. For decades, she is a woman whose work isn't just about music. Her work is also about helping others in a transparently compassionate way. I wish Sister Gladys Knight more Blessings.
I want to show honor to the late, great hero Betty Shabbazz. She was a great intellectual who wanted justice. She was the rock of Malcolm X. Also, she advocated for self-defense, justice, and human wisdom. She was very educated, and she cared for the interests of the people. The 1960's changed the whole world, and she was shaped by that decade. Ruby Dee and Juanita Poitier were her friends. Betty Shabbaz educated others on nursing. She was a volunteer. She lived the life of a strong woman who loved her husband and her children. Her life motivates us to carry forward with the august goal of liberation and justice. This precisely means that we endorse living wages. That means that we believe in universal health care. That means that we are opposed to imperialism, and we believe that the Dream is for all, not just for some.
Rest in Power Sister Betty Shabbaz.
By Timothy
Tuesday, May 28, 2019
Monday, May 27, 2019
Information in the end of May of 2019.
Technology and human geography go hand in hand. We need technology to achieve survival in many cases from growing foods to developing resources. Technology’s purpose is manifold. One purpose of it is to try to make the lives of human beings easier or more efficient. As time as gone onward in human history, technology does change. Sometimes it can change rapidly. Sociologists and geography experts have studied this socio-evolution in terms of the items of hunting and gathering, horticulture, pastoralism, agriculture, industry, and post-industrialism. The first humans in Africa were hunter gatherers. This was about a system where people hunted animals for food and gathered plants for food as well. Life was not easy. Many animals were predators, and they readily killed humans and other animals. Migration was commonplace. Edible plants were eaten. This culture is extinct except in certain locations like in Canada, Central Africa, Australia, and Malaysia. Some used shamans back then for advice or for spiritual ceremonies. Technology was limited thousands of years ago. Later, horticulture was commonplace about 10,000 years ago. This used technology to plant crops. Soil was fertile in the Middle East, Western Europe, China, the Americas, etc. Crops being developed increased the power of human civilization. By this time, the belief of one God spread in the world in the midst of a pastoral environmental. We saw agriculture revolutionize technology too. In agriculture, animals and machines are utilized to promote energy and the cultivation of crops. This spread by about 3,000 years ago. Human civilization by this time developed writing, number systems, and urban centers spread in Europe, Africa, China, Asia, etc. Some people used plows to build the soil. People traded using barter. Also, social inequality came about in the midst of agriculture too. Some people were enslaved to plant crops. You had the nobles and the elites controlling most of the farmland or the urban centers. Cultural diversity, the spreading of literature, and global trade advanced. The Industrial Age of humankind dealt with using technology to drive large machines in producing energy in a high scale. Humans expanded power. Industrialization grew by factories. Back then, there were many injustices involving industrialization like discrimination, child labor, income inequality, etc. That is why social movements (from the labor rights movement to socialists) came about to address these problems. With many industries, trains, planes, ships, railroads traveled faster and carried goods more efficiently. Industrial societies have increased the life expectancy of humanity. Industry relies on advanced technology from microchips to electronic devices. The price of this has dealt with some corporations polluting the environment, exploiting workers financially, and the weakening of human community. That is why groups and activists are here fighting against these problems. Postindustrial technology dealt with what’s happening now especially in the global North. It involves service jobs, computer technology, and automation. Many jobs are being more automated which replaces industrial jobs. This causes layoffs and many families suffering. This era of postindustrial society relies more on analyzing data, using computers, using speech, writing, and other skills. What the future holds will be interesting.
Transportation is one of the most important parts of human existence. For years, humans have traveled the world over. I have been on planes, buses, and other modes of travel to go to Richmond, Baltimore, Los Angeles, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Annapolis, Southampton County, Cape Charles, and other great places in America. Transportation geography deals with studying transportation in a geographic area involving its aspects. Transportation is about the movement of people, goods, and information in regions. Cities like New York City, regions like the South, and global areas deal with transportation from roads, rail, aviation, and ships. During ancient times, human beings used horses and boats plus ships to travel along large areas. Today, there is a diversity of means of transportation. Social and environmental factors impact transportation too. For example, large railway systems are readily needed in large urban communities. In rural communities, you need satellite dishes, farm equipment transport systems, and massive communication services. The weather can influence how goods are shipped during certain times of the years. It is more difficult to ship items in the snow than during a clear spring day. You have to deal with nodes or the beginning or end of a transportation point. There are networks in infrastructure that links the nodes. You have to deal with demand of how consumers deal with transportation or how the economy deals with transportation. Travelers, customers, and researchers evaluate transportation geography constantly. Air, road, water, and rail plus space involve transportation for a long time. In the span of 400 years, transportation has expanded massively. For thousands of years until the 19th century, most transportation involved horses, carriages, sailing ships, balloons, and likeminded vehicles. Then, the canal came by the 1800’s and steam locomotives causing trains to go ca. 75 mph. By the 20th century, we see aircraft, automobiles, space rockets, and other inventions going underwater. By the 21st century, we have high speed rail (which is growing in the USA), more automobiles, space stations, satellites, and other instruments of transportation. In our time, we still deal with traffic congestion, population densities, and other issues. Transportation must always involve helping the poor, the sick, and the homeless.
Human resources are very important involving human geography. Without resources, the human race won’t survive literally. Human resources deal with the business sectors, organizations, talent, labor, people, and empowerment of people. There are issues that deal with employment, labor laws, and benefits. In May 2014, the U.S. Department of Labor stated that human resource assistants earn about $38,040 annually and human resource managers earn about $104,440 annually. People are key in the developing of any nation. Any society wants motivated human beings to deal with the issues of life. Any person regardless of educational level, age, or sex has equal value and ought to be treated with dignity and with respect. The issue is that human resources are not equally distributed in the world right now. We have racism, discrimination, xenophobia, sexism, and other evils. That is why activism is important to do something about. Scholars of human resources research literacy, health conditions, occupations, and income levels to witness the reality of the Universe.
There have been many migrations of my people. First, I will explain my migrations of paternal ancestors and then my maternal ancestors. My paternal ancestors came from Halifax County, North Carolina. My paternal fourth great-grandfather was a man named James. He married a woman named Edney. They lived during the late 1700’s and early 1800’s. By the late 1800’s, most of my paternal ancestors lived in Palmyra, Halifax County, North Carolina. My second great grandfather Adam in North Carolina worked as a farm laborer by the year of 1900. Adam had two wives by the names of Georgianna Tillery and Nancy Reynolds later on. Also, some of my ancestors on my father’s side lived in Scotland Neck, North Carolina too. By the mid-20th century, a change occurred. Many of my paternal relatives started to migrate from North Carolina into Virginia, especially at Northampton County, Virginia. Many of them lived in that area of the Eastern Shore where Cape Charles was located. My great grandfather Carl lived in the Eastern Shore until his passing at 1968. My grandfather Thurman lived in Cape Charles, Virginia, and in Baltimore, Maryland too. By the mid-20th century, many of my paternal relatives traveled further into Maryland, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. Descendants of my great uncle Levi, especially live in New Jersey to this very day. These migrations occurred during the two Great Migrations of the early 20th century and during the time of World War II. Some of my paternal relatives traveled into Trenton, New Jersey, Connecticut, and as far as Florida. Alicia Gatling-Sweat is my paternal third cousin. She was born in the year of 1968. We share the same 2nd great grandfather named Adam. Her mother is Delores Jones and her father was the late, great Bishop Dr. Richard Gerald Gatlin Sr. (1944-2014). She was married at Hartford, Connecticut. Alicia's ancestrors traveled form North Carolina all the way into Connecticut.
My maternal ancestors originated from Southampton County, Virginia. One major discovery was more information about my 6th great grandfather (on my mother's side) named Solomon Hurst. He lived from 1781 to 1877. He was from Southampton County, Virginia. On the Internet, what caught my eye was that Solomon was born free. He was a freeman. Back in the day, a lot of black people were slaves. He stood up 6 feet 1, which was remarkable since that is precisely how tall I am. Solomon Hurst married Milly Mundy on the date of April 7, 1804. Solomon's mother was Faithy Hurst, and she was born at ca. 1757. Solomon's son was Moore Hurst. Moore Hurst had a son named Morefield Hurst Turner. Morefield Hurst Turner's daughter was Susanna Field Hurst-Turner Claud (1862 - 1949). Susanna (her mother was Milly [Woodson] Bozeman, and she lived from 1830-1910) is my 3rd great grandmother. Susanna married James Thompson Claud and they had the child named Arthur Boss Claud. My mother saw Arthur Boss Claud when she was young many decades ago. I am related to many of the Clauds in Virginia and other places of America. Arthur Boss Claud (1891-1974) had a child named Ella Mae Claud-Turner (1913-1991) or my great-grandmother. She gave birth to my grandfather named Robert, and then I came into the picture later on with my birth in the year of 1983. Yes, my maternal relatives are related to the Artis family, the Scott family, the Hill family, the Darden family, the Kindred family, and other families in Southampton County, Virginia too. By the early to mid-20th century, my maternal ancestors migrated from Southampton County, Virginia into Franklin, Courtland, Portsmouth, Baltimore, other parts of Maryland, Philadelphia, New York state, and as far north as Connecticut. They traveled during the two Great Migrations too. For example, my third great aunt Addie Claud (1891-1928) lived in Portsmouth, Virginia. Susanna’s daughter Lily Claud traveled into Philadelphia too. My maternal second cousin Abdul Rashad-Diaab is a descendant of my 2nd great uncle Ralph Charles William Peebles (1884-1967). Abdul's father is James Russell Peeples. Abdul lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and he was born in 1947. With DNA testing and historical documents, we are blessed to live in a time where numerous folks can trace their ancestors so far back.
By Timothy
Sunday, May 26, 2019
Black Agenda Report News
https://blackagendareport.com/battle-ballot-access-century-old-its-time-break-it-open
https://blackagendareport.com/killer-security-guards-get-impunity
https://blackagendareport.com/political-mafia-suspected-marielle-franco-murder
https://blackagendareport.com/brazil-killing-field-young-black-men
https://blackagendareport.com/los-angeles-city-segregation
https://blackagendareport.com/killer-security-guards-get-impunity
https://blackagendareport.com/political-mafia-suspected-marielle-franco-murder
https://blackagendareport.com/brazil-killing-field-young-black-men
https://blackagendareport.com/los-angeles-city-segregation
Historical Evidence of the Crucifixion
https://www.allaboutjesuschrist.org/historical-evidence-of-the-crucifixion-faq.htm
https://www.livescience.com/62727-jesus-roman-crucifixion-found.html
https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/crucifixion/jesus-and-the-cross/
https://www.wordonfire.org/resources/blog/four-reasons-to-believe-jesus-was-really-crucified/
https://www.bethinking.org/jesus/ancient-evidence-for-jesus-from-non-christian-sources
https://www.livescience.com/62727-jesus-roman-crucifixion-found.html
https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/crucifixion/jesus-and-the-cross/
https://www.wordonfire.org/resources/blog/four-reasons-to-believe-jesus-was-really-crucified/
https://www.bethinking.org/jesus/ancient-evidence-for-jesus-from-non-christian-sources
Saturday, May 25, 2019
The History of the United States of America Part 9 (1980-1991) More Facts
Friday, May 24, 2019
Encouragement.
It is important to promote encouragement among people. There are tons of stories about people where they overcame the odds to achieve great things. There is the myth that people are self made. That isn't true. Every human being on this Earth had help to get to where they have gotten to. There are always mentors, teachers, relatives, friends, and other people assisting humanity. Therefore, we aren't islands, and it is important to promote help to those who need it. That isn't shameful, and it shouldn't be disregarded. Also, we express empathy towards the victims of the destructive tornadoes in Missouri and other parts of the Midwest. Also, we can't be naive. The stock market is going very great. Many people are rich. Yet, many of the working class and the poor are still suffering, especially among some of the Millennial generation. The bailout of Wall Street and the massive transfer of wealth from the poor to the super wealthy have not solved all financial complications.
Millennials have more college debt than their parents' generation. National college debt is now at $1.3 trillion, and college tuition has increased by 1,140 percent since the late 1970's. By 2014, 48 percent of workers with bachelor’s degrees are employed in jobs for which they’re overqualified. Many Americans work two or three jobs just to pay rent, get food, or have health care. Most “young millennials” have less than $1,000 in their savings accounts. This is a serious problem. The solution isn't some centrism or some piecemeal stuff when we have an emergency. It is going to take billions of dollars and a radical redistribution of economic and political power. That is why the fight for justice is ongoing.
Trump walked out from talks about infrastructure planning, because he wants to end the Congressional investigations about his administration. Infrastructure is a goal that the majority of Americans promote. Pelosi said that Trump is involved in a cover up. Trump denied that he is angry at the meeting with Pelosi. It is no question that Trump has a long history of being unhinged and continues to fight impeachment. Trump refuses to allow even his ex-aides to testify to Congress about issues of obstruction of justice. Trump has the most unchecked executive power in more than 30 years. Many Congressional leaders want to have the unredacted Mueller report, his federal income tax records, and other documents. Trump refusing to allow subpoenas to take place represents a constitutional crisis. Congress has a legal duty to investigate issues, to inform the public, and to be a co-equal branch of government. All branches of government should have no supreme power over the other branches. You have to mention the truth, and do constructive actions in making sure that democracy is advanced.
Days ago was the Birthday of Sister Vivian Green. She is from Philadelphia, and she is now 40 years old. From my generation, we know about her music. She can sing and play the piano. From her youth, she has performed music. She sang backup for Jill Scott before establishing her own music career. In 2002, Green released her debut album, A Love Story, which featured the number-one single "Emotional Rollercoaster." I remember the song Emotional Rollercoaster. Her music not just deal with love and romance. It deals with the feelings and thinking of a woman. To keep it real, women go through more stuff than men go through. That's real. Therefore, we have use our understanding and empathy in making the world better. Her second album was Vivian. She is an advocate for special needs children. She has a child. Music is part of her life, and she loves her family. I wish Sister Vivian Green more blessings.
She is an icon. She is part of Generation X, so she has the spirit to rebel against injustice. That is why she is a fighter against discrimination in the fashion industry. With her, she built her own foundation, and she has established herself as one of the greatest fashion models in history. She is Sister Naomi Campbell, and it was her Birthday days ago. She is now 49 years old. London was her birthplace. She has Afro-Caribbean heritage as her mother is from Jamaica. She was in Bob Marley's "Is This Love?" music video back in 1978. Her model career took off by the 1980's. She has been into shoots. She worked with other models, and she knows the business inside and out. We know about the business in terms of its strengths and weaknesses. In July 2008, she appeared with fellow black models Liya Kebede, Sessilee Lopez and Jourdan Dunn on the gatefold cover of a landmark all-black issue of Italian Vogue, shot by Steven Meisel. In September of that year, Campbell reunited with Christy Turlington, Linda Evangelista, Cindy Crawford, Claudia Schiffer and Stephanie Seymour for "A League of Their Own", a Vanity Fair feature on the supermodel legacy. Being one of the most powerful black models of this generation, she has been outspoken to advocate for fair representation of black models. She is a philanthropist. She raised funds to fund people in Brazil to combat poverty, she funded aid to the victims of Hurricane Katrina, she helped the victims of Mumbai bombings, and she gives her time to help people. Naomi Campbell shows all of us that it is important to give back and to transform society in that justice exists for all. I wish Sister Naomi Campbell more blessings.
By Timothy
Thursday, May 23, 2019
Wednesday, May 22, 2019
On Impeachment and Other Issues.
The Democratic candidates running for President represent like a Dream Team of politicians. It is the most diverse and most qualified field of candidates in American history. Each of the candidates have strengths and weaknesses. Each have differences. They are unified in desiring Trump to be electorally defeated by 2020. It is important to note that we must advocate policies not just words. Rhetoric has its place, and it is fine to show rhetoric at given times. Likewise, we have to promote real policies like abolishing the Electoral College, making sure that federal voting rights are strengthened, endorsing background checks involving gun purchases, promoting a wealth tax for the super rich, and defending democratic rights. We want living wages, infrastructure development, and an emergency jobs program. Today, more House Democrats are calling for impeachment. There is no question that Trump should be impeached. There are tons of evidence documenting his lying, obfuscation, and deception. Any other person, who is not President, would be indicted for doing what Trump has done. The essence of true justice is allowing those who make a mockery of legitimate law to be held accountable. There is nothing wrong with kitchen table issues, but revolutionary solutions are needed.
In life, you have to speak the truth and at times write the truth. As a people, we must always reject women scapegoating and colorism. Colorism is evil, because it falsely denotes superiority and inferiority based upon skin complexion. There is light privilege as proven by human experiences and sociological research. Therefore, black people exist in a diversity of shades, and it is important to treat all black people with dignity and with respect regardless of a black person's skin complexion. That means that we must always condemn colorists (who are found in the industry and in other places). One of the great things to do is to not financially support anyone who is a colorist and to stand up to people who spew colorist garbage. Also, we reject women scapegoating. Women suffer way more than men. That is a historical fact. There are tons of women who tell me stories about their experiences, and it is important to defend the rights of women. Women gave the human race birth. That alone should be cherished, and we have the responsibility to help our community. We don't need egoism. We reject bigotry and racism. We abhor xenophobia. We desire what everyone else desire. We desire freedom. We want justice and we want our descendants to live in a world where they flourish without horrible restraints.
There is a lot of talk about impeachment. The Democrats have issued subpoenas to Hope Hicks and Donald McGahn's chief of staff. Last night, Pelosi met with leading Democrats who wanted impeachment. Pelosi refused to do so since she said that many victories are already here like the court ruling criticizing Trump. Many people want at least an inquiry of impeachment. One of the most important parts of our lives is to defend democracy. When a rouge President ignores subpoenas, promotes xenophobia, spews racial hatred, demonizes people in vulgar terms, and has no empathy for the suffering, then we have to do the opposite of that narcissistic person. The Golden Rules works then and it works today.
There are two types of unity. A real one and a fake one. A real unity tries to brings people together, but this real unity transforms society in giving people rights, ending income inequality, and addresses capitalist exploitation. It is a type of unity that not only talks about immigration rights being suppressed or police brutality against minorities. It gives solutions like amnesty to migrants and an outright federal policy to protect voting rights (including reparations given to African Americans without compromise). A fake unity is centrism. Again and again, we know that centrism doesn't work, because being in the middle doesn't help all people. It only benefits the status quo since being lukewarm is not revolutionary or practical. There are millions of people in poverty in America alone. There is a War on Drugs ravishing communities. There is an opoid crisis. Also, we have an authoritarian racist in the White House who doesn't have true empathy for those suffering. Therefore, more revolutionary solutions are key in making the world better. If a person lacks adequate policies to help the poor and the working class, then that person isn't a revolutionary.
Now, Trump wants Don McGahn not to testify. This is the example of the Trump administration hostility towards any legitimate inquiry on his administration. The Mueller report found numerous acts of obstruction of justice by the Trump team. Even one Republican Congressman Amash recently said that there is enough evidence for Trump doing obstruction of justice. Trump trying to stop the Mueller investigation, William Barr trying to obfuscate the facts, and the deceptions shown by Trump outline his absurd agenda. Months of hearings, tons of witness testimony, and convictions make everyone aware that the Trump administration is one of the most corrupt administrations in American history. Rep. Amash said that the Trump administration's conduct constitute impeachable offenses. He is right. Trump has used Tweets to disrespect Amash personally instead of being just on the issues. Trump is a coward who uses name calling and disrespect as a means to prop up his nefarious views. Trump trying to cover up and muddle the waters won't work forever. One member of the House Democratic Leadership, who is David Cicilline, said that if McGahn doesn't testify tomorrow, they would launch an impeachment inquiry. Democracy means transparency. The Mueller report should be read by people, and we have to fight for our rights. No one is above the law, and we have to make sure of that in present plus future generations.
By Timothy
Monday, May 20, 2019
Race and Police Brutality.
The United States of America had to deal with the issue of race since its founding. Many of the authors of the Declaration of the Independence and the Constitution wrote about liberty, but didn’t practice what they preached in their acts as slave-owners. America is unique in the sense that we have the most diverse amount of people in human history, and we still have to fight for rights that should have been inborn from the beginning. When Barack Obama became President, some naively believed that we lived in a post racial nation (and that racism would be gone soon). Back in November 2009, conservative host Lou Dobbs inaccurately states that we live in a “21st century post partisan, post racial society." Immediately, when President Barack Obama was in office, he experienced racism from many people. Some racists called him a witchdoctor (on the issue of the ACA), questioned his nationality (in claiming that he was born in Kenya, which was false), the bigots disrespected his wife plus his children, and some called him racial slurs. That is totally unjustified. It is one thing to express legitimate critique of his Presidency (in dealing with his drone strikes, hawkish actions, his harsh actions against whistleblowers, and on other issues). Yet, the racism against Obama was evil and disgusting. On October 28, 2009, the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act was passed to authorize federal prosecution of all racially motivated hate crimes. In 2010, Shirley Sherrod is a black woman who was falsely accused of being racist towards white Americans. She was from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The Fair Sentencing Act was passed on August 3, 2010 that reduced sentencing disparities between crack and powder cocaine to an 18:1 ratio. Today, we have people from across the political spectrum opposing the corruption found in the criminal justice system. Many people in America don’t see eye to eye on many issues. In a Washington Post/ABC News poll conducted in December 2014, about 50% of white respondents said they believed that the justice system treats Americans of all races equally, but only 10% of African-Americans said the same. In the spring of 2015, according to a Gallup poll, 13 percent of black Americans surveyed identified race relations as the most important problem the United States faces, compared with 4 percent of white Americans. So, it is obvious that we must deal with the issues of race, sex, and class in order for us to go into the Promised Land of true freedom and justice. During the Obama era and beyond, the epidemic of police brutality continues to exist in America plus worldwide. This is not just an American issue. It’s a global issue. In Brazil, many victims of police brutality exist. In 2015, according to a study by The Guardian, police officers in the United States killed 7.13 black Americans per million, compared with 2.91 white Americans per million. People from many quarters have exposed the killings of African Americans and people of every color. The Obama Presidency dealt with many of these issues of the killings of black Americans whether by vigilantes or by the police.
Kenneth Chamberlain Sr. was killed on November 19, 2011. The death of Trayvon Martin was caused by the racist vigilante George Zimmerman (he is a racist since he was caught on tape using the n word, and he is pictured celebrating the Confederate flag). Zimmerman was told by the police to not follow Trayvon Martin, but he did anyway. He provoked a confrontation and killed Trayvon Martin. If Zimmerman left that child Trayvon Martin alone, Trayvon Martin would be alive today. Zimmerman has a known history of stalking people in Sanford, Florida. Trayvon Martin’s death took place on February 26, 2012. The country of America was divided. Debates on stand your ground, race, class, and vigilantes existed. Zimmerman escaped justice by being acquitted by a jury. Zimmerman later became involved in incidents with the police, his girlfriends, and other people. He has been accused of domestic abuse, and he is recorded on tape using a racist slur against a black man. Trayvon’s friend Rachel Jeantel has been slandered, but she is multilingual and achieved great accomplishments. The documentary "I am Trayvon Martin" documented Zimmerman’s racism and extremism with facts. Zimmerman has threatened the co-executive producer of the documentary Michael Gasparro, Jay Z, and Beyonce. Zimmerman is a total fraud and a coward. Malcolm Shabazz or Malcolm X’s grandson was killed in Mexico. One of the worst decisions in history was when the Supreme Court overturned part of the 1965 Voting Rights Act in Shelby County v. Holder. Since June 25, 2013, draconian anti-voting rights laws have been passed in the South and in the Midwest. The Voting Rights Act is gutted of Section Five. After George Zimmerman was acquitted on July 13, 2013, tons of protested existed from Florida to NYC, Chicago, etc. By 2013, a new movement was created. It was a combination of the old school protests of the Civil Rights Movement and the progressive side of the Black Power movement with its emphasis on Blackness. It is the Black Lives Matter movement. It was created by 3 black women whose names are Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi. It has been loved and hated. It has been praised and condemned, but it has existed to this very day since 2013. We can all agree with their views of police brutality being bad, racial profiling must be eliminated, and all black lives should be protected. They condemn sexism, ageism, and make it their mission to protect the lives of black LGBTQIA+ human beings. Worse news came about involving innocent lives in Missouri. By 2014, Michael Brown was shot by police officer Darren Wilson at Ferguson, Missouri. The officer said that he used self-defense, while Brown’s family said it was a murder. Immediately, a rebellion existed in Ferguson which never occurred in America on that scale since the 1992 LA rebellion.
The “Hands up, Don’t shoot” movement existed. Progressives, black activists, and other people met in Ferguson to organize, protest, and stand up for their rights. During the Ferguson uprising, many cops deployed military weapons, some innocent journalists plus citizens were unjustly arrested, and many people suffered tea gas (from ordinary citizens to journalists). During the funeral of Michael Brown, Al Sharpton (who was a FBI informant) made the disrespectful comment that people shouldn't make "ghetto pity parties" when the truth is that silence is betrayal. Through ups and down, Ferguson became the start of a new era of black youth activism. July 17, 2014 was when Eric Garner was choked to death unjustly by a police officer. Other cops around Garner did nothing to stop it. This was in New York City. Black children, black women, black men and the black elderly continued to be killed across America. Nine African Americans were murdered at the Charleston Church called the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church at downtown Charleston, South Carolina. The community in Charleston came together to fight racism and murder. President Barack Obama came to remember the victims via his eulogy about the Charleston victims. Barack Obama has a mixed record on police brutality issues. He set up legitimate policies to address police brutality with consent decrees, meetings, etc. Likewise, he gave middle of the road speeches that mention respectability politics and compromise. The Say Her Name movement addresses the epidemic of black women being murdered by the police and other criminals. Sandra Bland died in a Texas jail after a traffic stop where the cop acted inappropriately towards her.
In 2015, Freddie Gray was arrested by Baltimore police, and he died in custody while he was in a hospital afterwards. Immediately, Baltimore had its rebellion which was its largest since 1968. We still have a system of oligarchy, racism, and classism. That is why we have some cops acting as occupiers in poorer communities. The system of racism/white supremacy is global. What goes on in America does happen internationally. The rebellion in Baltimore never existed as a product of a vacuum. It existed after decades of neglect, austerity, poverty, deindustralization, lax educational opportunities, racism, police brutality, and other evils (by the system of white supremacy). People have been hurting in Baltimore and throughout the Americas for centuries. Police terrorism and police occupation have been a common occurrence against black people. Baltimore Attorney Marilyn Mosby, and former Baltimore mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake worked in the city as well. Marilyn Mosby is still the Attorney in Baltimore in 2019.
Most of the cops involved in the arrest of Gray were acquitted. This is a common pattern, because the police union and the police institution is one of the most powerful lobbyists in America. They influence laws, they fund politicians, they ask for donations, and it is very difficult to cause any cop to be held accountable for misconduct. That is why many cops have gotten away with harassing, murdering, raping, and brutalizing people. As media coverage of police shootings intensified, protests erupted in the wake of the July 5, 2016 shooting of Alton Sterling in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and the July 6, 2016 shooting of Philando Castile in Falcon Heights, Minnesota. A respected school nutritionist, Castile was one of 233 African-Americans shot and killed by police in 2016, a startling number when demographics are considered. African-Americans make up 13 percent of the U.S. population but account for 24 percent of people fatally shot by police. According to the Washington Post, blacks are "2.5 times as likely as white Americans to be shot and killed by police officers." The irony is that one of the issues that those in the March on Washington from 1963 wanted was the end to police brutality. Over 55 years later, we are still fighting for that same end.
On July 7, 2016, towards the end of one of these protests in Dallas, Texas, Micah Xavier Johnson ambushed and fired upon a group of police officers, killing five officers and injuring nine others. Two civilians were also wounded. Later, the United the Right rally featured neo-Nazis, Neo-Confederates, and other extremists who support white supremacy. They are a disgrace to real freedom loving people. One young black person was assaulted and one white woman was murdered by a white racist. Her name was Heather Mayer. Many people of color like Native Americans, Latino Americans, Asian Americans, etc. do experience racism, police brutality, and discrimination. The separation of families on the U.S./Mexico border is horrible. The stealing of Native Americans’ lands to build a pipeline is evil. Therefore, oppression is intersectional. In 2019, debates on racism and police brutality continue with Democratic Presidential candidates dealing with those issues too. Police brutality is not new. Back during the 19th century, many police agencies kidnapped runaway slaves. Back during the date of March 7, 1965, there was Bloody Sunday where cops assaulted innocent protesters at Selma, Alabama. Rodney King in the early 1990’s was viciously assaulted by crooked cops with nightsticks on tape. The difference now is that Black Lives Matter, Hands Up Don’t Shoot, and other movements use cell phone evidence and other technologies to record such misconduct. There should be no blue wall of silence. In 2019, there is another police killing of an unarmed, mentally ill black woman named Pamela Turner in Baytown, Texas. Video of the incident existed, and the officer claimed that the mother grabbed his taser and had multiple warrants. The woman was only 44 years old, and she should have experience assistance not a death sentence. There is no excuse to shoot the woman 5 times when medical assistance can easily be called to help Pamela Turner. Supporters of the “All Lives Matter” phrase readily want to minimize the systemic threats and institutionalized oppression faced by African Americans. The fatal shootings of Aiyana Jones, Laquan McDonald, Tamir Rice, Walter Scott, and other Brothers and Sisters make us aware that we have so much to go in seeing a better union in America. Also, we want human liberation. There is no human liberation without black people being liberated indeed.
By Timothy
Friday, May 17, 2019
Friday Updates in Late May of 2019.
There is a difference between progressives and neoliberals. Progressives critique the excesses of capitalism. Neoliberals love capitalism unconditionally. Progressives believe in universal health care. Neoliberals want token reforms or the status quo. Progressives believe in no unjust wars and in no imperialism. Neoliberals readily advance the interests of Empire by promoting hawkish foreign policy positions and refusing to advance reconciliation. That is why I could never be in alliance with the liberal establishment or the conservative establishment. The conservative establishment seeks free market fundamentalism and oligarchy while the liberal establishment seeks the comforts of corporate power in the guise of "liberal" expression.
The liberal establishment makes the mistake in viewing reforms as necessary to enact change. The liberal establishment will tolerate people talking about celebrities or talk about rights at times. Yet, if you talk about criticizing capitalism, the state, the Empire, and the policies of the political status quo, then that same liberal establishment will criticize you. It happened to Dr. King. When Dr. King criticized the Vietnam War, capitalism, and poverty in bold terms, the liberal establishment slandered him. When Paul Robeson criticized U.S. foreign policy, he was ostracized. Real change comes by a radical restructuring of society collectively in order to enrich the people (which is all of the people not just the few who are rich or upper middle class. We have to address poverty and economic inequality plus racism including sexism in order for us to experience the Promised Land). You have to show love and concern for poor and working class people in order to get solutions rolling. The Brothers and Sisters on the block have as much right to have justice as anyone else.
The liberal establishment and especially the conservative establishment (filled with Wall Street funded oligarchs, xenophobes, and many bigots) readily hate socialism without understanding its doctrines or history. Being a progressive means to reject the agenda of the status quo and believing in justice for all. As I get older (being 35 years old now), I am certainly realizing that revolutionary solutions are better than centrism. Legends like Dr. King, Lorraine Hansberry, Malcolm X, Paul Robeson, W.E.B. DuBois, Claudia Jones, Ella Baker, Fannie Lou Hamer, etc. believed in seeing systematic/institutional oppression abolished via radical methods in order for human beings to witness the Dream up close and personal. We want to make the Dream real.
When you think about her, you think about a legendary singer whose career spanned more than three decades. She broke down barriers and opened doors for artists of the 21st century. Her performances are elaborate and diverse. Likewise, she has a humble spirit to stand up for her family and for the art of music. She is Sister Janet Jackson, and it was her birthday yesterday. Now, she is now 53 years old. Gary, Indiana is the place of her hometown. From being on Good Times as the young girl Penny to having her own albums, she is totally in control of her own life. From the time of the 1980's, she promoted her music globally. Rhythm Nation 1814 was groundbreaking as an album that wanted unity, and she displayed her amazing dance moves. She was born to be a dancer. Janet Jackson enthusiastically engages in powerful self expression. She wrote her own songs, acted in many films, and lives life in the midst of loving people. By the 1990's, she shown albums that showed her grown side. She wanted the world to know that she is a grown woman who has the right to express the full range of her personality.
His friends Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis produced many of her classic songs. They have used elements of rhythm and blues, funk, disco, rap and industrial beats in order for her to establish her own sound. From 1993's Janet to 1997's The Velvet Rope, Janet Jackson has amazed people with her lyrics plus erudite messages. Janet Jackson is conscious and outspoken to fight racism, xenophobia, police brutality, and other injustices. She continues to tour, make music, and love her fans. She has a child that she always loves. Janet Jackson is an outstanding philanthropist and a hero of the arts. I wish Sister Janet Jackson more blessings.
By Timothy
Thursday, May 16, 2019
Wednesday, May 15, 2019
More Developments.
There are a lot of breaking news today. Donald Trump made the incorrect words that Americans are paying for the tariffs. Kudlow or the economic advisor for Trump said both Americans and the Chinese people would pay for the tariff. This is a risky situation since the global economy is more interconnected than in any other time in history. Many resources that Americans consumers pay are made from China, and what farmers export will go to China. That is why more tariffs will harm farmers, consumers, and other workers. The situation requires sober leadership and fair collaboration among all sides involved. The news from the stock market prove that xenophobic nationalism doesn't work, and fair trade makes sense. This type of trade should not only benefit American workers, but workers internationally. Liberation is not limited by nationality. If we want freedom, we want freedom to ring worldwide.
We know that former DHS leader Kirstjen Nielsen faced criticism from lawmakers over family separation policy. She opposed Trump's secret plan to arrest and deport thousands of families who are immigrants. We know that Trump executes xenophobic and sociopathic behavior involving immigration. Separating families from children who are migrants is the essence of anti-democratic demagogic behavior. Trump is an authoritarian surrounded by sycophants. This is not new either. My black ancestors were separated from their families as slaves. During the Shoah, Jewish families were separated and sent to the death camps. We must never forget those evils, and we have to make sure that the rights of migrants and immigrants are protected just like the rights of black people must be protected as well.
Days ago, Donald Trump praised the far right extremist from Hungary named Viktor Orban (whose government and allies control 90% of the Hungarian media. Orban is an autocrat). This is not shocking, because Trump is known to sympathize with racists and extremists for a long time. They have similarities too. Each person agrees with radically anti-immigrant views. Viktor Orbán is the person who said "we do not want our color... to be mixed in with others." Not only is Orban racist, but he is ignorant of history. Historically, tons of people of diverse racial backgrounds lived in Europe. Black people lived in Europe long before the Renaissance, even in the age of the Roman Empire. So, diversity is part of the whole mosaic of human existence globally. He or Orban made the anti-Semitic comment that Soros is using some plot to send black immigrants from Africa and Middle Eastern people to go into Hungary to ruin it.
So, these racist Europeans have no shame in their disgusting commentaries. The truth is that Europeans didn't originate in France, Spain, or Hungary. Indo-European peoples came from Central Asia near the Caspian Sea. Therefore, Europeans are a product of migration. Also, many of the Franks, Jutes, and Saxons didn't came from France or the UK originally. They migrated from Germany into France and the UK over 1,000 years ago. Therefore, we have to embrace truth. The truth is that racial scapegoating, xenophobia, and hatred of migrants have no place anywhere in the globe. Orban's racist, xenophobic, and anti-democratic agendas are condemned by me 100 percent. As a black person, I realize that anti-black hatred is international in scope. That is why I express solidarity with black people worldwide, and I believe in justice for all.
She is one of the greatest track and field athletes of our generation. She is a beautiful black woman with a great husband. Also, she has worked hard from the Midwest to places around the world where she has amazed crowds. She fulfilled her dreams and loves the exceptional sport of track and field wholeheartedly. She is Sister Dawn Harper-Nelson, and it was her Birthday days ago. 34 years old is her age now. East St. Louis, Illinois is the place of her birth. Running hurdles since her youth has always been her specialty. She won her first IHSA 2A State Championship, and she broke the Illinois State record in the 100m hurdles during her freshman high school year with a time of 14.03. In her freshman year, Harper also won the 300m hurdles with a time of 42.70. During college, she ran for the UCLA Bruins. She received All-American honors twice at the 2004 NCAA Women's Outdoor Track and Field Championship, after coming eighth in the 100 m hurdles final and taking second place in the 4×100-meter relay. She won gold in Beijing for the 100m hurdles at 2008. She won silver at the 100m hurdles at London. She continues to win medals, and she met her inspirational hero Jackie Joyner-Kersee. Dawn was trained by Jackie's husband Bob Kersee. She won gold again in 2014 at a track and field race. Later, the city of East St. Louis named a day after her called Dawn Harper Day (since October 6, 2008). She continues to advocate for diabetes research. On June of 2012, Dawn Harper was named a spokeswoman for the American Diabetes Association and The FootMate® System by Gordon Brush. On March 23, 2013, Harper married hometown friend, Alonzo Nelson. Dawn Harper-Nelson speaks to the youth in her hometown on the importance of education. She is a living legend. I wish Sister Dawn Harper-Nelson more blessings.
By Timothy
Tuesday, May 14, 2019
Monday, May 13, 2019
The Early Time of the Trump Regime.
After the 2016 election was over, tons of Americans were shocked. Many people were massively dismayed at some xenophobic, sexist, and racist liar being selected as President by the Electoral College (not by the majority of voters as the majority of the American voters voted for Hillary Clinton). This is the new reality. The Vice President is Mike Pence of Indiana. Trump lied and said that massive voting fraud existed up to 5 million illegal votes in favor of Hillary Clinton. Multiple studies have shown that there is no evidence of widespread voter fraud. Mike Pence after Chris Christie headed up the Trump transition team. President Barack Obama spoke with Donald Trump on November 10, 2016 on giving him advice. Allies of Trump early on were Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama, retired Army Lt. Gen. Michael T. Flynn, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, former presidential candidate Ben Carson, and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich. Donald Trump was inaugurated on January 20, 2017. His wife, Melanie Trump accompanied him, and he was sworn in by Chief Justice John Roberts. Trump’s speech during his inauguration was filled with fear mongering rhetoric. He promoted the concept of America First. He wanted policies to benefit American workers and American factories without realizing that Americans aren’t islands. We are interconnected with the human family globally, and what benefits America should benefit the world positively without xenophobia. At the age of seventy, Trump surpassed Ronald Reagan and became the oldest person to assume the presidency, and the first without any prior government or military experience. His original cabinet has been changed so much since many of them quit, resigned, fired, or convicted for criminal wrongdoing. The Trump cabinet is the most corrupt cabinet of any Presidency in over 35 years old. Rex Tillerson was once the Secretary of State until Mike Pompeo took over in 2018. Jeff Session was once the Attorney General until William Barr replaced him. Ryan Zinke left the Secretary of Interior by 2019 and David Berhardt is the acting one. The Trump administration has been characterized by record turnover, particularly among White House staff. By the end of his first year in office, 34 percent of Trump's original staff had resigned, been fired, or been reassigned. As of early March 2018, 43 percent of senior White House positions had turned over. Many members of his own officials have privately gone against his agenda.
During the first year of the Trump administration, he turned back the clock on many issues. He did so not only because of his hatred of Obama’s policies. He did so since he arrogantly believes in a far right view that individualism matters above the common interests of the collective people. Power is meant for the people not for the select few in an oligarchy. He permitted the confirmation of the conservative Neil Gorsuch as an Associate Justice on the Supreme Court. He tried to end the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. He repeatedly wanted to repeal the ACA or the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. He failed to repeal the ACA. He labeled China as a currency manipulator and issued tariffs on China. He promoted the 2017 Shayrat missile strike in Syria without congressional approval. He opposed NATO on the grounds of nationalist reasons not on imperialist reasons. Trump used many executive orders to get his agenda going. Presidential historian Michael Beschloss said that "based on a legislative standard"—which is what the first 100 days has been judged on since the tenure of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who enacted 76 laws in 100 days including nine that were "major"—"Trump is really pretty low down on the list." By December of 2017, Trump signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. It cut taxes on the super wealthy. It cut the corporate tax rate to 21 percent. It lowered personal tax brackets, increased child tax credit, and doubled the estate tax threshold to $11.2 million, and limited the state and local tax deduction to $10,000. Most people benefiting from that law are the rich. Households in the lower or middle class would also see a small tax increase after the tax cuts expire. The bill is estimated to increase deficits by $1.5 trillion over 10 years. Trump watches FOX News, and FOX News is one of his biggest allies. He doesn’t read much. He mainly works from only 11 am. to 6 pm. on many occasions He is known for making tweets constantly and using false statements. There is no question that he has an issue with the rule of law. He has contempt for the First Amendment that goes against his views. He wanted the Justice Department to investigate his critics. He refuses to agree to submit to lawful subpoenas. He restricted access of one journalist illegally. In spring of 2018, Trump told White House counsel Don McGahn that he wanted to order the DOJ to prosecute Clinton and Comey, but McGahn advised Trump that such action would constitute abuse of power and invite possible impeachment. Any press entity that exposes Trump has been criticized by Trump as "fake news.” He has called the media the enemy of the people.
On his first day in office, Trump falsely accused journalists of understating the size of the crowd at his inauguration, and called the media "among the most dishonest human beings on earth.” He has supported law enforcement to crack down on crime, and he is silent on the epidemic of police brutality in America. He wants to overhaul programs from the Obama administration that fight police brutality. In July 2017, the Department of Justice reinstated the use of asset forfeiture, which is the practice of seizing the property of crime suspects who have not been charged or convicted with a crime. This meant that local authorities in the 24 states that banned the practice or limited its use so that it could now seize property from individuals who have not even been charged with a crime if the property is forwarded to the federal government. Previously, in February 2017, when a sheriff complained about a state senator who proposed legislation to end asset forfeiture, Trump responded, "Who is the state senator? Do you want to give his name? We'll destroy his career." Trump in a July 2017 speech to police officers said that he wanted officers to rough up suspects in the police car. Even some law enforcement agencies criticized Trump over that statement. Recently, Trump has used the token talk of the First Step Act in order to obfuscate criticism of his evil policies. We know that prisoners need rehabilitation, job opportunities after they leave jail, and nonviolent drug offenders don’t deserve the same time as rapists. In August of 2017, Trump pardoned the felon Sheriff Joe Arpaio. He pardoned former black heavyweight boxer Jack Johnson (I have no issue with that pardon), Dinesh D’Souza, Scotter Libby, and other people. One of the administration's first actions was to indefinitely suspend a cut in fee rates for HUD mortgages implemented by the Obama administration. The cut in fee rates would have saved individuals with lower credit scores around $500 per year on a typical loan. In September 2017, the DOJ announced it would not defend in courts a mandate that would have extended overtime benefits to more than 4 million workers. From the Muslim ban based upon nationality to his radical immigration policy that harmed the lives of even migrant children, Trump is just an authoritarian extremist. In 2017, he put a freeze on hiring federal civilian employees, he withdrawn from the TPP, he revoked the Mexico City policy, he endorsed the Keystone XL Pipeline, and issued other policies.
The Resistance is a movement created by women (especially women of color) to fight Trump’s agenda. From the moment that he was selected President, Resistance movement members have fought for progressive views. They protested worldwide by January of 2017 in America, Europe, Asia, and throughout the world. Donald Trump is one of the most controversial Presidents in American history. From his demonization of his critics, to his vulgar slander of peaceful NFL protesters (who oppose police brutality), and to his habitual lying, Trump is infamous for his abhorrent views. The Women’s March of 2017 motivated the world to see that freedom is not to be taken for granted. If you want to be free, you have to fight for it. Many leaders of the movement are Carmen Perez, Bob Bland, Tamika Mallory, Linda Sarsour, Teresa Shook, Vanessa Wruble, Evvie Harmon, etc. The Resistance opposed the aim of a border wall along the Mexico-United States border, efforts to end the ACA, the withdrawal of the Paris Agreement, the evil acts of the Unite the Right rally, repeal of neutrality regulations in the Internet, etc. So, the Resistance is here to stay. Many members of such progressive movement want the impeachment or resignation of Donald Trump and his administration. .
The 2018 United States mid-term elections was one of the most important elections in American history. It caused the House of Representatives to be run by a majority of Democrats. That never happened in years. It was an election of history making in an unprecedented level for women, black people, people of color, and other minorities. It allowed progressives to show their voices. It prevented a total Republican domination of the Congress, and it made people aware that social change is still a concept to promote. The Republicans controlled the Senate with a gain of 2 seats. The 2018 elections had the highest voter turnout in midterm elections since 1914. It saw many firsts. In various referenda, numerous states voted to expand Medicaid coverage, require voter identification, establish independent redistricting commissions, legalize marijuana, repeal felony disenfranchisement laws and enact other proposals. It saw the first people in various groups like race, sex, sexuality, etc. The Democrats issued a message that focused on health care to galvanize their base of supporters to vote for them. Many candidates opposed the tax cuts for the rich, immigration policies from Trump, and Russian interference in elections. It was a blue wave election. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan became the first Muslim women elected to the House of Representatives, Ayanna Pressley became the first female African-American woman elected to the House from Massachusetts; Sharice Davids of Kansas and Deb Haaland of New Mexico became the first Native American women elected to Congress, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York became the youngest-ever female member of the House at age 29. Jared Polis, who was elected governor of Colorado, became the first openly gay man to be elected Governor Kevin Stitt, who was elected governor of Oklahoma, was elected the first Native American governor in the nation. Black women are anchors of the progressive movement in America, and they heavily were involved in the blue victories.
Over 20 black women serve in Congress as a result of the historic 2018 election. Lauren Underwood is part of the House from Illinois and she is a black woman. Lucy McBath, a gun control advocate whose son was murdered in 2012, won in Georgia’s Sixth District, flipping a seat that had been in Republican hands for nearly four decades. Jahana Hayes, a 2016 National Teacher of the Year, is the first black woman to represent Connecticut in Congress. These women’s victories in the 2018 midterm elections will make them part of the largest women congressional class in history next January — overall; more than 100 women will become members of Congress. Almost exactly 50 years to the day that Shirley Chisholm (D-NY) became the first black woman elected to Congress, the results of Election Day 2018 meant that the number of black women in Congress will climb above 20 for the first time in its history. The lesson is that if you want real change, you have to speak to the concerns of black women. That is just the truth. You can't be for human liberation unless you show unconditional support to black women. Letitia “Tish” James became the first black woman, first woman, and first African American elected to the position of New York attorney general. Illinois House of Representatives member Juliana Stratton was elected lieutenant governor of Illinois. At the local level, a group of 19 black women dubbed the “Houston 19” all won election to judgeships in Harris County, Texas. Rachael Rollins became Massachusetts’s first black district attorney. Georgia’s Stacey Abrams may have lost the election in 2018, but her call for change resonates today. Andrew Gillum’s Florida campaign for governor ended not for his victory. Yet, we still know that 2018 was a turning point to make sure that Trump is held accountable for his policies. With a majority Democratic House, you have a check. Nearing 2020, we see a new era of history.
By Timothy
Sunday, May 12, 2019
Thursday, May 09, 2019
Wednesday, May 08, 2019
Life in Early May of 2019.
Hundreds of prosecutors (i.e. 566 former DOJ officials, which includes Republicans and Democrats) have said in a statement that Trump obstructed justice. In the realm of life, we have to promote health care for all people. We have to endorse investments in real education, and we have to believe in environmental justice where ecological devastation is defeated. Defending the right to vote is one of the most important actions to do. After Amendment 4 was passed in Florida, voter registration increased twofold. This positive result was the products of the dedicated efforts of activists, families, and progressive people who really believe in the principle that voting is a total human right. Recently, Jerry Falwell Jr. said that he wanted reparations for Trump in a mocking way by desiring Trump to spend 2 more years in office. This comes after the Mueller reports has exposed the corruption of the Trump administration. Falwell Jr. is wrong to call the investigation a coup since the investigation utilized legitimate subpoenas, witnesses, and trials that were within the bounds of the law. He is just angry , because he believes in Trump like a cult. No man is immune from criticism. Religious hypocrites like Jerry Falwell support Trump when Trump said that he never asks God for forgiveness before. Trump uses vulgar language to describe peaceful protesters and other people. Trump is a racist, because he said that a judge can't rule fairly because of his ethnicity, he has slurred nations with a majority of people of black African descent, he praised neo-Confederates plus neo-Nazis as "fine people," and has executed policies that are detrimental to humanity. Jerry said in January of 2019 that nothing that Trump would do would relinquish his support of him. That is cultist behavior. Also, Jerry's comments was disrespectful to the real reparations movement that desiring black Americans to succinctly get reparations because of the Maafa, slavery, Jim Crow, the prison industrial complex, etc.
One carrier strike group has been deployed in the Persian Gulf under the claims of John Bolton that Iran is seeking aggressive activity in the region. John Bolton is the famous neo-conservative who promoted the unjust Iraq War. He was part of the Bush administration years ago. Today, he is in the Trump cabinet. For over 10 years, Bolton has promoted militaristic rhetoric against Iran. Trump is a militarist too by ending the legitimate nuclear deal agreement with Iran. Bolton claims that he doesn't desire a war with Iran, but he does desire the Middle East to be recreated in the American image (which is the essence of Western imperialism). Imperialism doesn't work since it denies other nations the right to go through its own growing pains in order to establish their own social and political identities. Imperialism is wrong, because it is part of capitalist exploitation and readily imperialism uses racist/xenophobic policies against innocent human beings.
I have used Ancestry.com and 23 and Me before. Which is better? Ancestry.com is better in terms of genealogical research. You can contact distant cousins and find out your family history in unique ways. Now, I can trace my family tree back to the 1700's. 23 and me is better in terms of genetic information. It shows facts about my health that are true like my dark hair, my fast muscle fibers, and many of my relatives having diabetes. Therefore, both are great tools in figuring out identity. Most of DNA is obviously from sub Saharan Africa (in 86%). Most of my DNA is from Nigeria and the Congo (or in Central Africa). In this generation, millions of people worldwide are finding out more facts about their ancestry. With shows like PBS's show about finding family roots (headed by Professor Gates), and other commercials, people are inspired to fill in the blanks about their history.
The NRA Carolyn Meadows chief made the evil, disrespectful, and despicable comment that Rep. Lucy McBath was only in position of Congress because she is a "minority female." The NRA extremist behavior is disgusting. There is no secret about what the NRA wants. They want a world where little to no gun regulation exists and guns are made idols instead of tools which aren't equal to human life. It is no secret that many racists are in the NRA. The tide is turning. Polls show that the majority of Americans want federal background checks and other legitimate gun regulations. Rep. Lucy McBath is certainly owed dignity and respect. The people have the right to be empowered to speak out and use activism in making change. We have to vote, be mentors, be parts of programs to stop gun violence (and unjust violence in general), and using other progressive actions.
Yesterday was the Birthday of Sister Thelma Houston. She is now 73 years old. Leland, Mississippi is the place of her hometown. For years and decades, she has been a legendary singer and actress. She later grew up in Long Beach, California. Sunshower was her debut album which was released back in 1969. She scored a number-one hit in 1977 with her recording of "Don't Leave Me This Way", which won the Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance. Throughout the 1980's and the 1990's, she made many records. She also greatly appreciated the contributions of Dinah Washington, who was a great singer in her own right. From Motown to other labels, she never fails in showing classic music. On August 14, 2007, Houston released her first studio album in seventeen years, A Woman's Touch. The album was produced by Peitor Angell and features cover versions of songs by male artists such as Luther Vandross, Marvin Gaye, and Sting that Houston had been inspired by. The first single from the album was "Brand New Day." Music is her passion, and she has shown a pristine voice in her career.
I wish Sister Thelma Houston more blessings.
By Timothy
Tuesday, May 07, 2019
Monday, May 06, 2019
The 2016 Presidential Election (An Analysis).
The 2016 Presidential election in America was one of the most controversial and important elections in human history. It was filled with debates about economics, emails, social issues, and foreign policy matters. It had an overload of media coverage, Internet discussions, and issues of tolerance. Trump presented a right wing populist campaign with the message of “Make America Great Again” and he criticized political correctness. The term MAGA is oxymoronic since it ignores the troubled history of America during the past and present. We don't want to revert to a time where minorities had their rights completely violated or when slavery was legal. He or Trump opposed free trade agreements not for economic rights reasons, but for xenophobic reasons. Hillary Clinton called many of Trump supporters bigots, which is true. Hillary Clinton wanted to expand President Obama’s policies. She wanted progressive policies on racial issues, women rights issues, LGBT issues, and she wanted an “inclusive capitalism.” Capitalism without any regulations is abhorrent. The 2016 Presidential election allowed people to witness many candidates competing to lead America in the post-Obama era. The result of the election was a great tragedy. The results came about because of both financial angst (and populist acceptance) and the massive embrace of racism found in certain segments of the American people. Many Trump supporters are overt racists since they voted for a racist xenophobe Trump. We have to analyze the election from 2016 chronologically in order to see it for what it was. The election was emotional and very personal from the beginning. As early as November 2014, the moderate Jim Webb of Virginia started an exploratory committee for a positive run for President. Former Governor from Florida Jeb Bush formed a political action committee or PAC for a possible run the Presidency.
As 2015 continued, many more candidates rose up from Democrats and Republicans like Chris Christie, Martin O’Malley (a former Governor of Maryland), Lindsey Graham, Mitt Romney, George Pataki, Ben Carson, and other people. By March 5, 2015, Mark Everson, former Commissioner of Internal Revenue, formally announced his candidacy for the presidential nomination of the Republican Party. On March 18, 2015, Donald Trump, CEO of The Trump Organization since 1971, formed an exploratory committee in preparation for a possible run for president on the Republican Party ticket. Ted Cruz ran for President on March 23, 1015. In early April of 2015, Rand Paul (who is known for his non-interventionist foreign policy views) and Lincoln Chafee ran for President. Rick Santorum decided to have an exploration to see a possible run for President. On April 12, 2015, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton formally announced her candidacy for the Presidential nomination of the Democratic Party. She sends out a video to outline her goals and her story. He goes into Iowa to campaign. Immediately, Hillary Clinton received tons of support. On April 30, 2015, Bennie Sanders officially launched his campaign. He goes after oligarchs, lobbyists, super PACS, and economic inequality. He wants a political revolution to transform America in many ways. From the start, neoliberals and the far right hate him because of his progressive views. Bernie Sanders did the right thing in promoting economic justice. He did the right thing in allowing society to witness the economic, health, and educational disparities among the poor and the super wealthy. His weakness was that he struggled to connect the intersectionality of economic injustice, racism, and sexism. Oppression comes in many forms, and you have to make that complex connection in order to make the plan of action work more comprehensively. For example, the criminal justice disproportionately sends harsher sentences to black people, poor people, and other people of color more so than white Americans (as proven by numerous sociological studies). Hillary Clinton had many strengths in her campaign, and her weakness was that on some issues, she aligned with the establishment from a hawkish foreign policy to other moderate positions. Many Wall Street interests funded the Hillary Clinton campaign. Also, Hillary was critiqued fairly, and criticized unfairly via sexist attacks from many quarters.
Senator Marco Rubio of Florida officially ran for President by April 13, 2015. In May of 2015, Carly Fiorina of California, Ben Carson of Maryland, former Governor of Arkansas Mike Huckabee, Rick Santorum, George Pataki, and others ran for President on the Republican side. Martin O’Malley increases his campaign race. Lindsay Graham, Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island, Bobby Jindal, Rick Perry, and Jeb Bush ran for President in June of 2015. One June 16, 2015 was when Donald Trump of New York officially declared his candidacy for President. From the start, his campaign was filled with hated, bigotry, and lies. His first campaign speech slandered some undocumented immigrants as rapists and heinous criminals. The Republican side had more people like Scott Walker, John Kasich, and Jim Gilmore from Virginia. Republican candidates debated each other by August of 2015. They discussed about many issues. By August of 2015, Republican candidates debated on C-SPAN in New Hampshire (at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics in Goffstown, New Hampshire), and later at FOX News. Simi Valley California was where another Republican debate existed. At first, many Republican candidates didn’t take Trump seriously. Later, that would change. Trump would disrespect the Republican candidates personally about their wives, their fathers, and on other issues. Trump would disrespect Jeb Bush's wife and Ted Cruz's father. The first Democratic debate was held in Las Vegas, Nevada at Wynn Casino on October 13, 2015. From the start, the race had the two front runners of Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton. Sanders attacked Clinton as too moderate, and Clinton attacked Sanders as promoting unrealistic proposals. For a time, the campaign was very personal as Hillary Clinton said to Bernie Sanders to say those criticisms about her to her face. To this day, many Hillary supporters can’t tolerate Bernie supporters (and vice versa). By the end of 2015, the Presidential race was unlike any other before 2016. By early 2016, more Democratic and Republican debates existed. Hillary Clinton won the Iowa Democratic caucus on February 1, 2016 and Ted Cruz won the same caucus on the Republican side in Iowa. Older Democratic people supported Hillary while Bernie Sanders had massive support among progressives including younger Americans. Super delegates supported Hillary Clinton massively in 2016. It is no secret that members of the Democratic establishment didn’t like Bernie Sanders since he criticized capitalist exploitation and wanted democratic socialism to be praised. Hillary Clinton was criticized for calling black children “super predators” and voting for the Iraq War. Bernie Sanders has his imperfections, and Bernie Sanders opposed the Iraq War. Also, it is important to note that many of the Bernie Bros. have issued sexist remarks against Hillary Clinton, and that is wrong period. Sexism is totally evil.
By February of 2016, many Republicans candidates ended their campaigns like Rand Paul, Rock Santorum, and Mike Huckabee. While Bernie Sanders won many primaries in Vermont, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Colorado, etc., Hillary Clinton won more primaries in more states like Massachusetts, Virginia, Texas, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, etc. Bernie Sanders had large rallies in the Bronx and in other places nationwide. While this was going on, Trump continued to spew division, hatred, and ad hominem attacks on his opponents. Bernie Sanders fought until the end. By July of 2016, Bernie Sanders endorsed Hillary Clinton. Donald Trump won the Republican primary and decided to get Indiana Governor Mike Pence as his Vice Presidential running mate. Mike Pence makes no bones about his very conservative views. Hillary Clinton chose Virginia governor Tim Kaine as his Presidential running mate. Time Kaine was the mayor of Richmond too, and he has a center left side. Donald Trump had his Republican convention in Cleveland, Ohio. It was filled with paranoia, xenophobic rhetoric from Trump, and fear mongering. The Republican speakers there loved the extreme rhetoric from Trump. It is no secret that Donald Trump provoked violence at his rallies or violence occurred at his rallies. Trump explicitly said that he wished for protesters to be beaten up. Protesters were opposing Trump’s agenda on July 12, 2015 in Phoenix, Arizona. On August 25, 2015, during a press conference, Univision anchor Jorge Ramos began to question Trump since before being called on. After being told "Sit down! you weren't called" and "Go back to Univision", Ramos continued to protest Trump's plan to deport undocumented immigrants and their children born into citizenship in the U.S. Trump motioned to his security, with Keith Schiller removing Ramos from the event. Trump later met with Ramos alone. Keith Schiller also punched a protester on September 3, 2015.
In Richmond, Virginia, people clashed among protesters and Trump supporters on October 14, 2015. On February 29, 2016, at a rally, veteran photojournalist Chris Morris was grabbed by his throat and thrown to the ground by a member of the Secret Service. On March 1, 2016, a black woman named Kashiya Nwanguma attended a Trump rally in Louisville, Kentucky, with two anti-Trump signs. She reported that Trump supporters ripped her signs away and shouted insults at her. On March 10, 2016, as Trump was being led by police from a rally in Fayetteville, North Carolina, an African American protester was punched by a Trump supporter. Charges of assault and battery were filed by the Cumberland County Sheriff's Office. A protester being led by police from a rally in Fayetteville, North Carolina, was sucker punched by John McGraw, a Trump supporter. McGraw later told the media that the next time he saw the protester, "we might have to kill him.” McGraw was subsequently charged with assault and battery and given 12 months of probation. That assaulter receiving only probation exposes the brutally racist criminal justice system. On Meet the Press, Trump said that he had instructed his team to look into paying McGraw's legal fees and said, "He obviously loves his country." On March 11, 2016, during a rally in St. Louis, at which Trump was "repeatedly interrupted by protesters, violence broke out between supporters of Trump and protesters, resulting in 32 arrests.” A planned event for later that day in Chicago drew confrontations between supporters and protesters in the arena at the University of Illinois at Chicago before Trump could come out to speak, due to an unusually large number of protesters, and the campaign cancelled the rally due to safety concerns. Trump stated that he made the decision himself, commenting, "I didn't want to see people get hurt [so] I decided to postpone the rally." Protests existed in New York City and all over America.
Later, The Democratic National Convention has held in July 25-28, 2016. It was held at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Hillary Clinton accepted the nomination as the first woman to win the Democratic nomination in American history. The Convention had a large amount of diverse human beings. It was a ground breaking convention. The Green Party and Libertarian Party existed with their candidates. Jill Stein and Ajamu Baraka were part of the Green Party. Evan McMullin ran as an independent. The first presidential general election debate was held at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York. (The first debate was originally going to be held at Wright State University, but the location was changed due to rising security costs that were being incurred by the school). Hillary Clinton ends up taking the majority support after the debate. By October 7, 2016, Trump’s campaign almost ended with the tapes leaked out form Access Hollywood. It showed Donald Trump and Billy Bush talking about exploiting women in vulgar, sexist terms back in 2005. Trump bragged about grabbing women by their private area. Criticism was fierce. Trump has been accused of sexual harassment by many women. Later, WikiLeaks began publishing thousands of emails from the personal Gmail account of Clinton campaign manager John Podesta, revealing excerpts from Clinton's paid speeches to Wall Street. The Hillary email scandal hurt the Hillary Clinton campaign too. Hillary Clinton was a better debater than Donald Trump. Trump used personal insults. Gary Johnson ran on the Libertarian ticket. One event that contributed to the defeat of Clinton was when on October 28, 2016; James Comey announces that the FBI will be investigating newly discovered emails pertinent to its previous investigation of Hillary Clinton's private server.
Hillary's lead in the polls dropped heavily within days. From that point onward, it was the beginning of the end. By November 6, 2016, James Comey told Congress there is no evidence in the recently discovered emails that Clinton should face charges over handling of classified information. By this phase of the election, scholars and journalists question whether Russians and Putin are influencing the election. We know now that Russian intelligence is complicit in election meddling during the 2016 election. On Election Day on November 8, 2016, it was a shocking event. Hillary Clinton won the majority of the popular vote, but Donald Trump won most of the Electoral College. Therefore, Trump won the 2016 Presidential election. Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan voted for Trump while Virginia voted against Trump since Virginia has a large minority population. Also, Virginia is a more progressive state politically than 20 years ago. When you look at demographics, most liberals and moderates voted for Hillary Clinton while most conservatives voted for Trump. 58 percent of white people voted for Trump, 88 percent of black people voted for Hillary Clinton, 65 percent of Asian people voted for Hillary Clinton, and 65 percent of Hispanic people voted for Hillary Clinton. The vast majority of white men and white women voted for Donald Trump. The vast majority of people from 18-39 years old voted for Hillary Clinton while people 40 and older voted for Donald Trump. The election results was a product of the paradox of many Obama supporters supporting Trump since they believed in his right wing populist message, and Trump appealed to the latent (plus overt) xenophobia plus racism found among many Americans. Donald Trump is a billionaire demagogue whose policies would lead into class war, national chauvinism, militarism, and the expansion of police state power. Trump hypocritically claimed to be for the common people, but he had elected a cabinet of far right ideologies, corporate leaders, criminals, and those who endorse oligarchy. That is why Trump passed his massive tax cut for the super wealthy. Donald Trump is a racist, white supremacist. Since 2016, we have seen the growth of radical, far right movements and the resistance against such evil being advanced too.
By Timothy
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