Sunday, December 03, 2006
Eighth Radical Progressive Carnival
We actually, surprisingly and much welcomed,have quite a slew of materials to post on the eighth Radical Progressive carnival. Firstly, from RDoctor Medical Portal, we have two insightful essays. The first, entitled The Psychology of Law and Order, gives us a very enlightening and insightful interview with a psychologist, discussing issues of treatment and the practice of blogging as a psychologist. The second essay from Rdoctor Medicap Portal provides an intense and eye-opening discussion with Healthcare specialist, Hank Stern, on the nature of healthcare in the US and the growing Healthcare crisis in the United States. Our second contributor, Phil For Humanity, provides us with an interesting post concerning Lobbyists in America. The Picket Line offers a detailed and very useful post on wartime tax resistance for any who would like to take part in tax resistance. Steven Silvers over at Scatterbox predicts the inevitable corporate scandals soon to arise with the fall of the Republican congress and the prospects of Congressional investigations. Lastly, but definitely not least, Black Looks offers us an essay on the use of art as activism among post colonial Africans who use art to make political statements and who defy the traditional definitions of art accepted by Western aesthetics. Very enlightening essay. All of these should be enjoyable reading.
Saturday, December 02, 2006
The First Mention of AIDS in a Presidential Press Conference
Frpm BitchPHD's website
The following press conference is the first public mention of AIDS in the Reagan White House. At that time 200 Americans had died of a new infectious disease. Reagan himself did not mention AIDS for three more years.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
PRESS BRIEFING BY LARRY SPEAKES
October 15, 1982
The Briefing Room
12:45pm EDT
Q: Larry, does the President have any reaction to the announcement the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, that AIDS is now an epidemic and have over 600 cases?
MR. SPEAKES: What's AIDS?
Q: Over a third of them have died. It's known as "gay plague." (Laughter.) No, it is. I mean it's a pretty serious thing that one in every three people that get this have died. And I wondered if the President is aware of it?
MR. SPEAKES: I don't have it. Do you? (Laughter.)
Q: No, I don't.
MR. SPEAKES: You didn't answer my question.
Q: Well, I just wondered, does the President
MR. SPEAKES: How do you know? (Laughter.)
Q: In other words, the White House looks on this as a great joke?
MR. SPEAKES: No, I don't know anything about it, Lester.
Q: Does the President, does anyone in the White House know about this epidemic, Larry?
MR. SPEAKES: I don't think so. I don't think there's been any
Q: Nobody knows?
MR. SPEAKES: There has been no personal experience here, Lester.
Q: No, I mean, I thought you were keeping
MR. SPEAKES: I checked thoroughly with Dr. Ruge this morning and he's had no (laughter) no patients suffering from AIDS or whatever it is.
Q: The President doesn't have gay plague, is that what you're saying or what?
MR. SPEAKES: No, I didn't say that.
Q: Didn't say that?
MR. SPEAKES: I thought I heard you on the State Department over there. Why didn't you stay there? (Laughter.)
Q: Because I love you Larry, that's why (Laughter.)
MR. SPEAKES: Oh I see. Just don't put it in those terms, Lester. (Laughter.)
Q: Oh, I retract that.
MR. SPEAKES: I hope so.
Q: It's too late.
This transcript was quoted at the beginning of Jon Cohen's book, Shots in the Dark: The Wayward Search for an AIDS Vaccine, 2001.
The following press conference is the first public mention of AIDS in the Reagan White House. At that time 200 Americans had died of a new infectious disease. Reagan himself did not mention AIDS for three more years.
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
PRESS BRIEFING BY LARRY SPEAKES
October 15, 1982
The Briefing Room
12:45pm EDT
Q: Larry, does the President have any reaction to the announcement the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, that AIDS is now an epidemic and have over 600 cases?
MR. SPEAKES: What's AIDS?
Q: Over a third of them have died. It's known as "gay plague." (Laughter.) No, it is. I mean it's a pretty serious thing that one in every three people that get this have died. And I wondered if the President is aware of it?
MR. SPEAKES: I don't have it. Do you? (Laughter.)
Q: No, I don't.
MR. SPEAKES: You didn't answer my question.
Q: Well, I just wondered, does the President
MR. SPEAKES: How do you know? (Laughter.)
Q: In other words, the White House looks on this as a great joke?
MR. SPEAKES: No, I don't know anything about it, Lester.
Q: Does the President, does anyone in the White House know about this epidemic, Larry?
MR. SPEAKES: I don't think so. I don't think there's been any
Q: Nobody knows?
MR. SPEAKES: There has been no personal experience here, Lester.
Q: No, I mean, I thought you were keeping
MR. SPEAKES: I checked thoroughly with Dr. Ruge this morning and he's had no (laughter) no patients suffering from AIDS or whatever it is.
Q: The President doesn't have gay plague, is that what you're saying or what?
MR. SPEAKES: No, I didn't say that.
Q: Didn't say that?
MR. SPEAKES: I thought I heard you on the State Department over there. Why didn't you stay there? (Laughter.)
Q: Because I love you Larry, that's why (Laughter.)
MR. SPEAKES: Oh I see. Just don't put it in those terms, Lester. (Laughter.)
Q: Oh, I retract that.
MR. SPEAKES: I hope so.
Q: It's too late.
This transcript was quoted at the beginning of Jon Cohen's book, Shots in the Dark: The Wayward Search for an AIDS Vaccine, 2001.
This is a wonderful essay on the realities of life for gay people in Cuba, the reality as opposed to the U.S.'s propaganda.
Woody Allen gave a wonderful definition of facism today in this biographical documentary I saw. He said that fascism is where you have a society where no one really talks exceptfor those select few at the top of the barrell. Their voices are like loudspeakers and are heard far above the masses, drowning out any progressive voices or voices of protest. Be aware of our lives and how we live.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Memories
I remember roaming my grandmother's bookshelves and then finding her old gradebooks, which I would play with. I never dreamed that I would have one of my own. That was too boring for me. I was Nancy Wilson and Nina Simone. I spoke French and jetsetted through the mediterreanean, wore chic dresses, sang loud, was coy, was sleek, and gave concerts to Parisian crowds.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Something I was thinking about today, in regards to thoughts of a draft and some other things. World War II was the last war in which anyone really was willing to die for the United States. It was the last time in which "To Do or Die" worked on a mass scale. People, and especially young men I think, became disillusioned after that(and/or comfortable) and did not hold such strong convictions. Korea really disillusioned, especially black soldiers, and especially those who were left over there for an extra year. Vietnam was a full-hault stop as to patriotism driving anyone onto a battlefield. Any current efforts to draft will be sheer brute force on the part of the power structure.
India Ranks Second in Fastest Growing Economies
Behind China, India has the second fastest growing economy. According to market analysts, India outshines them all in this quarter. We look to India and China as our future....
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Something to Think About
When I was in Chicago over the holiday, one of my Uncles pointed out to me that the Black man that was the Washington D.C. sniper a few years ago was a military veteran, who had seen conflict, trained to be a sniper in the U.S. Marines....
Everyone should take a look at this essay by Charlene Mitchell on the Communist Party and the Black Panther Party. It is very insightful.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
BUSH SIGNS THE MILITARY COMMISSIONS ACT: CCR CALLS IT A BLOW TO DEMOCRACY AND THE CONSTITUTION
From The Center for Constitutional Rights Website
New Law Suspends Right of Habeas Corpus for Non-Citizens, Empowers President to Authorize Torture and Gives Him Wide Power to Indefinitely Imprison Anyone, Including Americans, He Labels an
Center for Constitutional Rights Derides Unprecedented Expansion of Presidential Power and Vows to Challenge the Law in U.S. Supreme Court
October 17, 2006, New York, NY - Today, the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR) denounced President Bush's signing into law of the Military Commissions Act (MCA). The final version of the bill emerged only four days before the Senate's 11th hour vote. Although President Bush declared that "time was of the essence" when he called for the legislation, he has waited nearly two weeks to sign it into law. Congress has once again been cowed into doing the President's bidding and abdicated their Constitutional powers in the process, say attorneys.
The new law strips the right of non-citizens to seek review of their detention by a court through the filing of a writ of habeas corpus, the venerated legal instrument that for centuries has protected people from arbitrary detention, disappearance and indefinite detention without charge. The Act is also meant to erase the hundreds of habeas corpus petitions that CCR and others have brought on behalf of many of the 450 men being held at Guantánamo Bay, a move already once denied by the Supreme Court.
Further, the MCA dramatically expands the President's powers in an array of profoundly troubling ways, including permitting him to determine what constitutes torture and who may be labeled an "unlawful enemy combatant" and therefore detained indefinitely. Such scope means that non-citizens, such as those unjustifiably rounded up in sweeps after 9/11 in the U.S., could be held without charge or trial. U.S. citizens deemed to have "materially supported" hostilities against the United States could be held as enemy combatants as well. Once in U.S. custody, the law allows detainees to be subjected to stress positions, temperature extremes, sleep deprivation, and possibly waterboarding. It also defines sexual violence crimes so narrowly that some of the outrages of Abu Ghraib, such as forced nudity, would not be punishable, and defines rape and sexual abuse in a manner that is inconsistent with international law, turning back the clock on the hard-fought victories of survivors of sexual violence. At the same time, the bill provides retroactive immunity for U.S military and intelligence officials for the torture and abuse of detainees, including the widely condemned horrors which occurred at Abu Ghraib and Guantánamo.
Characterizing the new law as "an assault on the Constitution," CCR Executive Director Vincent Warren said, "By trading our liberty for a false sense of security, Congress has effectively granted the President the power of tyrants to undermine the foundations of Democracy." He added, "CCR intends to challenge this outrage at every turn, using every tool at our disposal, until we reverse this affront to the rule of law."
Further, Warren pointed out that under this administration's lawless programs, innocent people like CCR client rendition victim Maher Arar-who was recently cleared of any links to terrorism-can be jailed and tortured with no recourse.
CCR has already filed the first new cases to challenge the stripping of habeas corpus: Mohammed v. Rumsfeld, a habeas petition on behalf of 25 men detained at Bagram Air Force Base; and Khan v. Bush, a habeas petition on behalf of Majid Khan, a Baltimore man held in secret by the CIA for nearly three years until President Bush transferred him to Guantánamo in early September. Both cases are in the D.C. District Court.
The law will likely also be tested in two consolidated cases brought on behalf of Guantánamo detainees currently pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals, Al Odah v. United States of America and Boumediene v. Bush. These cases represent the first 13 habeas petitions filed on behalf of Guantánamo detainees and challenge the legality of the detention of 53 men. The initial appeal was argued on September 8, 2005, and the three-panel court has yet to issue its decision.
According to CCR legal director Bill Goodman, the provision of the MCA that strips the right of habeas corpus is a direct violation of the suspension clause of the U.S. Constitution because it denies non-citizens a meaningful opportunity to challenge the legality of their detention. The clause states that the writ of habeas corpus can only be suspended "in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion." Goodman said recent reports of innocent men being released from Guantánamo underscore the importance of moving quickly to defeat this law:
"From Afghanistan to Spain and Germany to Pakistan, innocent men have been returned home to their families. We know, as does the Bush Administration, that many more of the roughly 450 men still held at Guantánamo are also innocent. To deny them the right to make their case and to win their freedom, is not only immoral and illegal, but undermines the concepts of liberty and democracy that this country was built on."
A more detailed review of the legal issues raised by the stripping provision of the Act and the legal process that may ensue is attached.
New Law Suspends Right of Habeas Corpus for Non-Citizens, Empowers President to Authorize Torture and Gives Him Wide Power to Indefinitely Imprison Anyone, Including Americans, He Labels an
Center for Constitutional Rights Derides Unprecedented Expansion of Presidential Power and Vows to Challenge the Law in U.S. Supreme Court
October 17, 2006, New York, NY - Today, the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR) denounced President Bush's signing into law of the Military Commissions Act (MCA). The final version of the bill emerged only four days before the Senate's 11th hour vote. Although President Bush declared that "time was of the essence" when he called for the legislation, he has waited nearly two weeks to sign it into law. Congress has once again been cowed into doing the President's bidding and abdicated their Constitutional powers in the process, say attorneys.
The new law strips the right of non-citizens to seek review of their detention by a court through the filing of a writ of habeas corpus, the venerated legal instrument that for centuries has protected people from arbitrary detention, disappearance and indefinite detention without charge. The Act is also meant to erase the hundreds of habeas corpus petitions that CCR and others have brought on behalf of many of the 450 men being held at Guantánamo Bay, a move already once denied by the Supreme Court.
Further, the MCA dramatically expands the President's powers in an array of profoundly troubling ways, including permitting him to determine what constitutes torture and who may be labeled an "unlawful enemy combatant" and therefore detained indefinitely. Such scope means that non-citizens, such as those unjustifiably rounded up in sweeps after 9/11 in the U.S., could be held without charge or trial. U.S. citizens deemed to have "materially supported" hostilities against the United States could be held as enemy combatants as well. Once in U.S. custody, the law allows detainees to be subjected to stress positions, temperature extremes, sleep deprivation, and possibly waterboarding. It also defines sexual violence crimes so narrowly that some of the outrages of Abu Ghraib, such as forced nudity, would not be punishable, and defines rape and sexual abuse in a manner that is inconsistent with international law, turning back the clock on the hard-fought victories of survivors of sexual violence. At the same time, the bill provides retroactive immunity for U.S military and intelligence officials for the torture and abuse of detainees, including the widely condemned horrors which occurred at Abu Ghraib and Guantánamo.
Characterizing the new law as "an assault on the Constitution," CCR Executive Director Vincent Warren said, "By trading our liberty for a false sense of security, Congress has effectively granted the President the power of tyrants to undermine the foundations of Democracy." He added, "CCR intends to challenge this outrage at every turn, using every tool at our disposal, until we reverse this affront to the rule of law."
Further, Warren pointed out that under this administration's lawless programs, innocent people like CCR client rendition victim Maher Arar-who was recently cleared of any links to terrorism-can be jailed and tortured with no recourse.
CCR has already filed the first new cases to challenge the stripping of habeas corpus: Mohammed v. Rumsfeld, a habeas petition on behalf of 25 men detained at Bagram Air Force Base; and Khan v. Bush, a habeas petition on behalf of Majid Khan, a Baltimore man held in secret by the CIA for nearly three years until President Bush transferred him to Guantánamo in early September. Both cases are in the D.C. District Court.
The law will likely also be tested in two consolidated cases brought on behalf of Guantánamo detainees currently pending before the U.S. Court of Appeals, Al Odah v. United States of America and Boumediene v. Bush. These cases represent the first 13 habeas petitions filed on behalf of Guantánamo detainees and challenge the legality of the detention of 53 men. The initial appeal was argued on September 8, 2005, and the three-panel court has yet to issue its decision.
According to CCR legal director Bill Goodman, the provision of the MCA that strips the right of habeas corpus is a direct violation of the suspension clause of the U.S. Constitution because it denies non-citizens a meaningful opportunity to challenge the legality of their detention. The clause states that the writ of habeas corpus can only be suspended "in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion." Goodman said recent reports of innocent men being released from Guantánamo underscore the importance of moving quickly to defeat this law:
"From Afghanistan to Spain and Germany to Pakistan, innocent men have been returned home to their families. We know, as does the Bush Administration, that many more of the roughly 450 men still held at Guantánamo are also innocent. To deny them the right to make their case and to win their freedom, is not only immoral and illegal, but undermines the concepts of liberty and democracy that this country was built on."
A more detailed review of the legal issues raised by the stripping provision of the Act and the legal process that may ensue is attached.
Call for a Special Prosecutor to Investigate U.S. Torture
From the Center for Constitutional Rights Website
The Center for Constitutional Rights is calling for the appointment of a Special Prosecutor to conduct a full, independent and public inquiry into the role of high-ranking U.S. officials in the abuse and torture of detainees in Iraq, Afghanistan, Guantánamo and elsewhere around the world.
With each week, more appalling government memos and documents come to light from a Freedom of Information Act request CCR filed with the American Civil Liberties Union, Physicians for Human Rights, Veterans for Common Sense, and Veterans for Peace: the Bush Administration has systematically encouraged torture techniques prohibited under the Geneva Conventions and the Covenant against Torture.
Our clients who have been released from Guantánamo and Abu Ghraib describe a deliberate program of abuse. Other CCR clients have been shipped off by our government to countries like Syria and Egypt to be interrogated under torture, a practice called “extraordinary rendition” chronicled in an early-February New Yorker article and a Bob Herbert’s column in The Times.
The Bush Administration has brought us down to a moral level unimaginable since the end of World War II, despite the fact that experts in interrogation know that torture produces bad intelligence and false confessions only fans the flames of hatred the world over and puts our own troops in danger.
People like Donald Rumsfeld and Alberto Gonzales must be held accountable for the dangerous policies they have put in place, but they will never investigate themselves.
Please tell Congress and the president this must end. Join CCR and other groups like Human Rights Watch to call for a Special Prosecutor today!
The Center for Constitutional Rights is calling for the appointment of a Special Prosecutor to conduct a full, independent and public inquiry into the role of high-ranking U.S. officials in the abuse and torture of detainees in Iraq, Afghanistan, Guantánamo and elsewhere around the world.
With each week, more appalling government memos and documents come to light from a Freedom of Information Act request CCR filed with the American Civil Liberties Union, Physicians for Human Rights, Veterans for Common Sense, and Veterans for Peace: the Bush Administration has systematically encouraged torture techniques prohibited under the Geneva Conventions and the Covenant against Torture.
Our clients who have been released from Guantánamo and Abu Ghraib describe a deliberate program of abuse. Other CCR clients have been shipped off by our government to countries like Syria and Egypt to be interrogated under torture, a practice called “extraordinary rendition” chronicled in an early-February New Yorker article and a Bob Herbert’s column in The Times.
The Bush Administration has brought us down to a moral level unimaginable since the end of World War II, despite the fact that experts in interrogation know that torture produces bad intelligence and false confessions only fans the flames of hatred the world over and puts our own troops in danger.
People like Donald Rumsfeld and Alberto Gonzales must be held accountable for the dangerous policies they have put in place, but they will never investigate themselves.
Please tell Congress and the president this must end. Join CCR and other groups like Human Rights Watch to call for a Special Prosecutor today!
Slowly Knocking Down the Power Structure
Today, a federal judge just stripped away key elements of George Bush's post 9/11 powers, declaring his newly bestowed authorty to declare groups as terrorist threats unconstitutional.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Bridges
By Diane Reeves
I have crossed a thousand bridges
In my search for something real
There were great suspension bridges
Made like spider webs of steel
There were tiny wooden trestles
And there were bridges made of stone
I have always been a stranger and
I’ve always been alone
There’s a bridge to tomorrow
There’s a bridge to the past
There’s a bridge made of sorrow
That I pray will not last
There’s a bridge made of color
I have crossed a thousand bridges
In my search for something real
There were great suspension bridges
Made like spider webs of steel
There were tiny wooden trestles
And there were bridges made of stone
I have always been a stranger and
I’ve always been alone
There’s a bridge to tomorrow
There’s a bridge to the past
There’s a bridge made of sorrow
That I pray will not last
There’s a bridge made of color
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Interesting Geneological Stuff for Keeps
My Wife's Lines:
1. RAWLINSON LINE: From England to Kent Co. Md (was there in early 1700s, to S.C., then to Alabama in ealry 1800s.
2. GAITHER LINE: To Maryland, then to S.C., then to Alabama in early 1800s.
3. DERAMUS LINE: From Switzerland (Joseph DeRamus who came to South Carolina from Switzerland was French, from French Hugenout parents who had fled France to Switzerland), to S.C., then to Alabama in early 1800s
1. RAWLINSON LINE: From England to Kent Co. Md (was there in early 1700s, to S.C., then to Alabama in ealry 1800s.
2. GAITHER LINE: To Maryland, then to S.C., then to Alabama in early 1800s.
3. DERAMUS LINE: From Switzerland (Joseph DeRamus who came to South Carolina from Switzerland was French, from French Hugenout parents who had fled France to Switzerland), to S.C., then to Alabama in early 1800s
Chicago was great and beautiful. Kelly and Kathy have a beautiful new house. God Bless Uncle Donald, Aunt Joyce, and all of my relatives. While I was in chicago, I patronized quite a few establishments with which I was quite pleased.
Quinn took me to The Grille, a mom and pop on Halsted where I had a wonderful strawberry malt and she had a great looking hamburger.We then went to The Chicago Diner, also on the Northside, full of cute gay waiters, where I had the best organic german chocolate cake. Also while in Chicago, I revisited Ada's downtown, this time with Candace(who was in Chicago) where I absolutely raved over the sweet and sour cabbage soup. The atmosphere was also great. Aunt Joyce took me there once before a long time ago. Later, Candace and I also frequented The Red Head Piano Bar where we had much fun. Other restaurants I have enjoyed in Chicago are Gladys' and Mello Yello in Hyde Park(I love the idea of having drinks with breakfast and I love the orange juice, coconut milk, and rum blend!
Quinn took me to The Grille, a mom and pop on Halsted where I had a wonderful strawberry malt and she had a great looking hamburger.We then went to The Chicago Diner, also on the Northside, full of cute gay waiters, where I had the best organic german chocolate cake. Also while in Chicago, I revisited Ada's downtown, this time with Candace(who was in Chicago) where I absolutely raved over the sweet and sour cabbage soup. The atmosphere was also great. Aunt Joyce took me there once before a long time ago. Later, Candace and I also frequented The Red Head Piano Bar where we had much fun. Other restaurants I have enjoyed in Chicago are Gladys' and Mello Yello in Hyde Park(I love the idea of having drinks with breakfast and I love the orange juice, coconut milk, and rum blend!
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
This is the Selection List of the Nancy Wilson CD I Have Been Looking For
I had this on tape a long time ago. I want this CD--and the lyrics to these songs. I know them mostly, but I want them on paper.
01. IM YOUR SPECIAL FOOL
02. PRISONER OF MY EYES
03. PLAYER PLAY ON
04. ONLY LOVE
05. LOOKING BACK
06. IF WE ONLY HAVE LOVE
07. IN A LONG WHITE ROOM
08. YOUD BETTER GO
09. QUIET SOUL
10. WHAT DO YOU SEE IN HER?
11. WE COULD LEARN TOGETHER
01. IM YOUR SPECIAL FOOL
02. PRISONER OF MY EYES
03. PLAYER PLAY ON
04. ONLY LOVE
05. LOOKING BACK
06. IF WE ONLY HAVE LOVE
07. IN A LONG WHITE ROOM
08. YOUD BETTER GO
09. QUIET SOUL
10. WHAT DO YOU SEE IN HER?
11. WE COULD LEARN TOGETHER
The First Five Chapters
By Diane Reeves
Yesterdays... Yesterdays... Yesterdays
If you want to clap your hands it's okay
If you want to snap your fingers it's all right
Such a nice groove
For some nice folks
I want to tell you a story
About how I started out
I believe the year was 1976
When I decided to leave my home you see
It was time for me to go out into the world and to seek my fortune
I had a choice
I could either be starved and be cold
And move to the east
Or starve and be hot
So hot you see and move to the west
I picked LA
I wanna share with you the first five chapters of my life
Chapter One
I was walking down the street
With my head held high and my pockets filled with dreams
And I feel into a hole
I said to myself who put that hole there
Whoever put it there sure is mean
So I picked myself up out of the hole
Dusted myself off and went on my merry way
Chapter Two
I was walking down the same street
Feeling good
And I fell into a hole
I said to myself who put this hole there
Whoever put it there sure is mean
So I climbed up out of the hole and I dusted myself off went on my way
And remember thinking not everybody loves you like your mother
Chapter Three
I was walking down the same street
When I fell, oh yes I fell I tumbled hard this time
Down the same hole
I said to myself
I know this hole
I've been here before and I don't want to come back no more
So I picked myself up out of the hole
Dusted myself off
Said hole you ain't gonna get me no more
Well... Chapter 4
I was walking down the same street
I like to flurt with danger
That's my nature
But this time I saw the hole and I jumped over the hole
I said hole you won't get me no more
I kicked some dirt into the hole
Well now
That I learned how to live
I'm living what I learned
So I'm in chapter five right here right now
And I'm walking down a new street
Feelin' healthy
feelin' fine
feelin' prosperous oh the whole the world is mine
I take my time
do as I Please
Please when I want to
It sure feels good
They say life begins after that number and it sure does
Yesterday Yesterday Yesterdays
I love Yesterdays
Yesterdays
Now I'm thinking about today
Yesterdays... Yesterdays... Yesterdays
If you want to clap your hands it's okay
If you want to snap your fingers it's all right
Such a nice groove
For some nice folks
I want to tell you a story
About how I started out
I believe the year was 1976
When I decided to leave my home you see
It was time for me to go out into the world and to seek my fortune
I had a choice
I could either be starved and be cold
And move to the east
Or starve and be hot
So hot you see and move to the west
I picked LA
I wanna share with you the first five chapters of my life
Chapter One
I was walking down the street
With my head held high and my pockets filled with dreams
And I feel into a hole
I said to myself who put that hole there
Whoever put it there sure is mean
So I picked myself up out of the hole
Dusted myself off and went on my merry way
Chapter Two
I was walking down the same street
Feeling good
And I fell into a hole
I said to myself who put this hole there
Whoever put it there sure is mean
So I climbed up out of the hole and I dusted myself off went on my way
And remember thinking not everybody loves you like your mother
Chapter Three
I was walking down the same street
When I fell, oh yes I fell I tumbled hard this time
Down the same hole
I said to myself
I know this hole
I've been here before and I don't want to come back no more
So I picked myself up out of the hole
Dusted myself off
Said hole you ain't gonna get me no more
Well... Chapter 4
I was walking down the same street
I like to flurt with danger
That's my nature
But this time I saw the hole and I jumped over the hole
I said hole you won't get me no more
I kicked some dirt into the hole
Well now
That I learned how to live
I'm living what I learned
So I'm in chapter five right here right now
And I'm walking down a new street
Feelin' healthy
feelin' fine
feelin' prosperous oh the whole the world is mine
I take my time
do as I Please
Please when I want to
It sure feels good
They say life begins after that number and it sure does
Yesterday Yesterday Yesterdays
I love Yesterdays
Yesterdays
Now I'm thinking about today
Long Live Cuba!!
Much Love to Cuba, the Cuban people, and Castro as they celebrate fifty years of indepdendence!
Monday, November 20, 2006
God Bless the Indonesian People
Indoensia wholly rejected George Bush as he entered their country today. May his visit be brief and icy. They should definitely meet him everywhere with loud yells of righteous anger and indignation.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Rangel's Draft
I very much love and support Charlie Rangel. He better know exactly what he's doing though--and have plenty of exemptions for Black folks....cause my Middle Class black behind ain't going nowhere...and none of mine either. As a matter of fact, thats what the Black Panthers called for, exemption for people of color, particularly Blacks, from military service. Lets have it.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Purdue POLE Sit-In In President's Office
Watchi the video in the above link of the student sit-in in the President's office here at Purdue. Students in this video are staging a protest in President Jischke's office to demand that Purdue cooperate with efforts to end sweatshops and create a living wage in the factories that make Purdue apparrel.
The House That Ruth Built
Ruth Brown, the legendary R&B singer that put Atlantic Records on the map, has died at 78. What a passing.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Why? The King of Love is Dead
Nina Simone
What's gonna happen now? In all of our cities?
My people are rising; they're living in lies.
Even if they have to die
Even if they have to die at the moment they know what life is
Even at that one moment that ya know what life is
If you have to die, it's all right
Cause you know what life is
You know what freedom is for one moment of your life
But he had seen the mountaintop
And he knew he could not stop
Always living with the threat of death ahead
Folks you'd better stop and think
Everybody knows we're on the brink
What will happen, now that the King is dead?
We can all shed tears; it won't change a thing
Teach your people: Will they ever learn?
Must you always kill with burn and burn with guns
And kill with guns and burn - don't you know how we gotta react?
But he had seen the mountaintop
And he knew he could not stop
Always living with the threat of death ahead
Folks you'd better stop and think
Everybody knows we're on the brink
What will happen, now that the King of love is dead?
What's gonna happen now? In all of our cities?
My people are rising; they're living in lies.
Even if they have to die
Even if they have to die at the moment they know what life is
Even at that one moment that ya know what life is
If you have to die, it's all right
Cause you know what life is
You know what freedom is for one moment of your life
But he had seen the mountaintop
And he knew he could not stop
Always living with the threat of death ahead
Folks you'd better stop and think
Everybody knows we're on the brink
What will happen, now that the King is dead?
We can all shed tears; it won't change a thing
Teach your people: Will they ever learn?
Must you always kill with burn and burn with guns
And kill with guns and burn - don't you know how we gotta react?
But he had seen the mountaintop
And he knew he could not stop
Always living with the threat of death ahead
Folks you'd better stop and think
Everybody knows we're on the brink
What will happen, now that the King of love is dead?
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
You Belong To Me-The Perfect Seduction Song
Carly Simon
Why'd you tell me this
Were you looking for my reaction
What do you need to know
Don't you know I'll always be your girl
You don't have to prove to me you're beautiful to strangers
I've got loving eyes of my own
You belong to me
Tell her you were fooling
You don't even know her
Tell her that I love you
You belong to me
Can it be, honey, that you're not sure
You belong to me
Thought we'd closed the book - locked the door
You don't have to prove to me that you're beautiful to strangers
I've got loving eyes of my own
And I can tell - I can tell darling
Tell her - tell her that I love you
You belong - you belong - you belong to me
Tell her you were fooling
Tell her she don't even know you
Tell her you were fooling
I know you from a long time ago, baby
Don't leave me to go to her now
You belong to me.
Why'd you tell me this
Were you looking for my reaction
What do you need to know
Don't you know I'll always be your girl
You don't have to prove to me you're beautiful to strangers
I've got loving eyes of my own
You belong to me
Tell her you were fooling
You don't even know her
Tell her that I love you
You belong to me
Can it be, honey, that you're not sure
You belong to me
Thought we'd closed the book - locked the door
You don't have to prove to me that you're beautiful to strangers
I've got loving eyes of my own
And I can tell - I can tell darling
Tell her - tell her that I love you
You belong - you belong - you belong to me
Tell her you were fooling
Tell her she don't even know you
Tell her you were fooling
I know you from a long time ago, baby
Don't leave me to go to her now
You belong to me.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Black Organized Religion
This weekend I witnessed somewhat of a Black religious event/revival. There are some things that I definitely want to comment upon about Black organized religion. Black people's god, for a large part, and not for all for there are strains of progressivism within the Black church, but mainstream Black religion deifies white men and the great white father. Lets take some of the songs and just substitute. Or rather some phrases and I'll make up some as I go along, because I dont actually know any(of the gospel really, I know lots of spirituals).
(The White Father)He's a great god
(The White Father)God is good to me
I definitely do not intend and will never downplay anyone's religion. The sincerest expressions of religion are wonderful. I appreciate and connect with people's connections with god. Until the Black community shuns its apoltical stance and its passivity as a response to white supremacy, and especially the evils of imperialism that affect the entire world, Black religion will ring a false note.
(The White Father)He's a great god
(The White Father)God is good to me
I definitely do not intend and will never downplay anyone's religion. The sincerest expressions of religion are wonderful. I appreciate and connect with people's connections with god. Until the Black community shuns its apoltical stance and its passivity as a response to white supremacy, and especially the evils of imperialism that affect the entire world, Black religion will ring a false note.
Representative Keith Ellison
Everyone should be keeping their eyes on this new face in the U.S. Congress. The Honorable Congressman Keith Ellison is the first Black person to be elected to public office from the state of Minnesota and is the first muslim to serve in the United States Congress. I definitely am looking forward to seeing good things from him. He is a staunchly progressive voice in the Democratic fold.
The End of A Love Affair
Chaka Khan/Billie Holiday
So I walk a little too fast and I drive a little too fast
And I'm reckless it's true, but what else can you do at the
end of a love affair?
So I talk a little too much, and I laugh a little too much
And my voice is too loud, when I'm out in a crowd
So that people are apt to stare
Do they know, do they care, that it's only that I'm lonely
and low as can be?
And the smile on my face isn't really a smile at atll!
So I smoke a little too much, and I drink a little too much
And the tunes I request are not always the best
But the ones where the trumpets blare!
So I go at a maddening pace, and I pretend that it's taking
your place
But what else can you do, at the end of a love affair
So I walk a little too fast and I drive a little too fast
And I'm reckless it's true, but what else can you do at the
end of a love affair?
So I talk a little too much, and I laugh a little too much
And my voice is too loud, when I'm out in a crowd
So that people are apt to stare
Do they know, do they care, that it's only that I'm lonely
and low as can be?
And the smile on my face isn't really a smile at atll!
So I smoke a little too much, and I drink a little too much
And the tunes I request are not always the best
But the ones where the trumpets blare!
So I go at a maddening pace, and I pretend that it's taking
your place
But what else can you do, at the end of a love affair
Saturday, November 11, 2006
Mildred's Question
We had a great CCDS meeting today. I always enjoy CCDS--a great group of people and a wonderful gathering of progressive voices. Mildred posed a question in her discussion that I think is absolutely vital and is one that should be key and at the forefront in any consideration of politics. Her question was "Is the Entire Human Race being treated equally?" The answer to that question is the key to solving a lot of the world's problems.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Further Musings Related
At one point, stemming from the 18th to the 19th centuries in Europe, and especially among the Sepharadi, there was quite a movement to assimilate into mass and mainstream European culture--quite literally--with the one of the main themes floating around being that the efforts of the Jewish people should be to secure as many mixed marriages between gentiles and Jews as possible--and to secure a place for them amongst the englightnened, savoir faire classes of Europe. There was much the same trend in Japan as well in the 19th Century, where it was highly prised for Japanese people to secure marriages with white men from the west and produce mulatto children and bring a greater civilization to the race...oh what trends...that still need to end.
I just saw the Prime Minister of Israel on the Today Show demonizing the Palestinian people and spewing the same old filth of Zionism. It saddens me so to see Israel as it is. Since Theodor Herzl, and perhaps and most probably before, there has been that main trend that have lost all vertebrae along its spine and whose sole modus operandi have been to kiss as much white ass as possible. Horrd and horrid, and what is worse is that they themselves have become what their European/American lords and benefactors were-conquistadors, rapists, pillagers, patriarchal, teutonic assholes. You better try and maintain your integrity instead of trying to jump in the bed with the people you think have power. You can and will go straight to hell right along with them suffering the same fate.... I for one will absolutely not sit by and support Israel while they are trying to act like white men and Teutonic Heroes....they can and should be castrated too!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
For Donald Rumsfeld and Co, George Bush and all the Others
Straight From Nina Simone
Now if your mind lies in the devils' workshop
And evil doing's your thrill
And trouble and mischief is all you live for
You know darn well that
That you'll go to the hell
That you'll go to the hell
So you're living high and migthy
Rich off the fat of the land
Just don't dispose of your natural soul
Cos you know darn well
That you'll go to the hell
That you'll go to the hell
Say hell where your natural soul burns
Hell where you pay for your sins
Hell keep your children from wrong doing
Cos you know darn well
That they'll go to the hell
That they'll go to the hell
I say hell man and woman were created
Hell to live for ethernity
Hell but an apple they ate from the tree of hate
So you know darn well
That they went to the hell
They went to the hell
Now Satan was an angel in Heaven
But he stirred up trouble and woe
So the Lord commanded the devil be branded
So you know darn well he went to the hell
Yeah he went to hell
Yeah he went to hell
He went to hell
Now if your mind lies in the devils' workshop
And evil doing's your thrill
And trouble and mischief is all you live for
You know darn well that
That you'll go to the hell
That you'll go to the hell
So you're living high and migthy
Rich off the fat of the land
Just don't dispose of your natural soul
Cos you know darn well
That you'll go to the hell
That you'll go to the hell
Say hell where your natural soul burns
Hell where you pay for your sins
Hell keep your children from wrong doing
Cos you know darn well
That they'll go to the hell
That they'll go to the hell
I say hell man and woman were created
Hell to live for ethernity
Hell but an apple they ate from the tree of hate
So you know darn well
That they went to the hell
They went to the hell
Now Satan was an angel in Heaven
But he stirred up trouble and woe
So the Lord commanded the devil be branded
So you know darn well he went to the hell
Yeah he went to hell
Yeah he went to hell
He went to hell
Friday, November 03, 2006
The Seventh Radical Progressive Blogcarnival
Very late, but here it is, the seventh edition of the Radical Progressive Blogcarnival.The first submission to make it to post this time is The Largest Minority's post "Sunnis' Establish Islamic Republic Inside Iraq." This post examines the media's assessments of Sunni efforts to establish a religious state in Iraq and questions the future of Iraq. Great post. I will also include my top ten book list. Should be great reading!
Female Genital Mutilation
One thing I wanted to comment on that has been in the news recently is the Female Genital Mutilation case stemming out of Georgia. This horrible practice has occurred in the United States for hundreds of years and for thousands of years in Africa and Asia and other parts of the world. In her novel,Possessing the Secret of Joy, Alice Walker discusses how white men would prod and examine the bodies of the African women they had captured and brought to the United States as slaves and took note of FGM in this way and began, in some instances, to use it on their wives and daughters. There is one point in the book in which Tashi, the African immigrant woman who has undergone FGM, is introduced to a white woman from Louisiana by her psychiatrist, Raye, who has also undergone Female Genital Mutilation. The difference in their cases was that Tashi underwent the procedure voluntarily as an adult, in foolish support of a national cause, while the white woman had undergone FGM at the hands of her parents as a deterrent from masturbation. This horrible practice should stop and the horrendous practices of it here in the New World, as well as in the old, should be brought to light.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
We Are Living In 1984
This is a report that I saw on the BBC today. Britain and the United States have more surveillance of the people within their country than any others. Canada and Germany have the least.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
This Song Has Been Playing in My Mind All Day--When You've Been Blessed
Patti Labelle
In a world of superheros, in a world of weak and
strong;
In a sea of have and have nots, I've survived the
raging storm.
And I pray for a world where we all can be free,
It's a heavenly vision, It's a garden that I see.
It's a joy that graced the heart of lovin me.
When you've been blessed...feels like heaven
When you've been blessed...feels like heaven.
I have faith, I have hope. And I trust in the day
When the music from heaven will show us the way.
It's a garden of music, it's a garden of love,
And we are all HIS children sharing gifts from
above.
When you've been blessed....feels like heaven, feels
like heaven
When you've been blessed...pass it on, pass it on
In a world of superheros, in a world of weak and
strong;
In a sea of have and have nots, I've survived the
raging storm.
And I pray for a world where we all can be free,
It's a heavenly vision, It's a garden that I see.
It's a joy that graced the heart of lovin me.
When you've been blessed...feels like heaven
When you've been blessed...feels like heaven.
I have faith, I have hope. And I trust in the day
When the music from heaven will show us the way.
It's a garden of music, it's a garden of love,
And we are all HIS children sharing gifts from
above.
When you've been blessed....feels like heaven, feels
like heaven
When you've been blessed...pass it on, pass it on
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Midterm Elections
Democrats and Progressives need to be vigilant in this election cycle and need to go the extra mile to get out the vote. Republicans are going to try and play off of the disadvantages that the poor and minorities have in getting to the polls so there need to be massive, organized driving campaigns offering to take people to the polls, encourage people to take off work to go to the polls--in droves--and the NAACP and other Civil Rights organizations should be on the ready to fight tooth and nail to fight Republicans/evil white people over voter ID issues in minority and impoverished communities. Be prepared to take Karl Rove's scrotum if he tries to fuck with voter turn out in communities of color and impoverished communities.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Overheard
I heard that Lynne Cheney wrote a pornographic sex novel. Haha! I am sure it wasn't very good...
Thursday, October 26, 2006
You're All I Need To Get By
Aretha Franklin
(You?re all I need to get by)
(You?re all I need to get by)
(You?re all I need to get by)
(You?re all I need to get by)
(You?re all... I need... to get by - hi - hi)
AslongasIgotyouthenbabyyouknowthatyougotme!
Oh (whoa - oh - ho)
CauseWeveGotOurLoveandsomeR-E-S-P-E-C-T!(oh) whoa oh ho
Like the sweet morning dew
I took one look at you
And it was plain to see you were my destiny
With my arms open wide I threw away my pride
I sacrificed for you, dedicate my life to you
I will go where you lead, I?ll be right there in a time of need
And when I lose my will, you?ll be right there to push me up that hill
(There?s no) no (no lookin? back for us) no way bab - bay
(We?ve got enough to show love that?s enough)
(You?re all) you?re all, all (you?re all I need)
(You?re all, you?re all I need, you?re all)
You?re all I need baby baby, to get by yeah, get by
Like an eagle protects his nest, for you I?ll do my best
Stand by you like a tree and damn anybody that try an move me
Darling in you I found, straight for I was torn down
I don?t know what?s in store, but together we can open any door
Just to do what?s good for you, I?ll inspire you alittle bit higher
I know you can make a real man
I?m a soul that didn?t have a goal
(Cause we?ve) yeah ( we?ve got the right foundation)
Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaah (and we?ve got determination)
Yes we do (oh) Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah
(You?re all, you?re all I need you?re all)
Yes, baby (you?re all I need you?re all)
(You?re all)
Oooo you?re all that I need to get by - i - i - i - i
Yeah, yeah
AslongasIgotyouthenbabyyouknowthatyougot me!
(Whoa) whoa (yeah) um umm hum
CausewevegotourloveandsomeR-E-S-P-E-C-T! oh whoa oh oh oh oh
(Baby) uum hum uum hum
Babyyouknowthatyougotme!
Oh you?re all I need (yeah)
Fades -
You?re all that I need
You?re all that I need
(You?re all I need to get by)
(You?re all I need to get by)
(You?re all I need to get by)
(You?re all I need to get by)
(You?re all... I need... to get by - hi - hi)
AslongasIgotyouthenbabyyouknowthatyougotme!
Oh (whoa - oh - ho)
CauseWeveGotOurLoveandsomeR-E-S-P-E-C-T!(oh) whoa oh ho
Like the sweet morning dew
I took one look at you
And it was plain to see you were my destiny
With my arms open wide I threw away my pride
I sacrificed for you, dedicate my life to you
I will go where you lead, I?ll be right there in a time of need
And when I lose my will, you?ll be right there to push me up that hill
(There?s no) no (no lookin? back for us) no way bab - bay
(We?ve got enough to show love that?s enough)
(You?re all) you?re all, all (you?re all I need)
(You?re all, you?re all I need, you?re all)
You?re all I need baby baby, to get by yeah, get by
Like an eagle protects his nest, for you I?ll do my best
Stand by you like a tree and damn anybody that try an move me
Darling in you I found, straight for I was torn down
I don?t know what?s in store, but together we can open any door
Just to do what?s good for you, I?ll inspire you alittle bit higher
I know you can make a real man
I?m a soul that didn?t have a goal
(Cause we?ve) yeah ( we?ve got the right foundation)
Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaah (and we?ve got determination)
Yes we do (oh) Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah
(You?re all, you?re all I need you?re all)
Yes, baby (you?re all I need you?re all)
(You?re all)
Oooo you?re all that I need to get by - i - i - i - i
Yeah, yeah
AslongasIgotyouthenbabyyouknowthatyougot me!
(Whoa) whoa (yeah) um umm hum
CausewevegotourloveandsomeR-E-S-P-E-C-T! oh whoa oh oh oh oh
(Baby) uum hum uum hum
Babyyouknowthatyougotme!
Oh you?re all I need (yeah)
Fades -
You?re all that I need
You?re all that I need
Oh My-Fraternities
Patriarchy and its twisted components. Oh me oh my. It seems like all of the patriarchal societies of this place very much organize amongst themselves, including with the gay ones....Fraternities...gay people....patriarchy...the world never ceases to be a wonder.
Border Song(Holy Moses)
Aretha Franklin
Holy Moses, I have been removed
I have seen the spectre, he was been here too
Distant cousin from down the line
Brand of people who ain't my kind
Holy Moses, I have been removed
Holy Moses, I have been deceived
Now the wind has changed direction
I think I'll have to leave
Won't you please excuse my frankness
But it's not my cup of tea
Holy Moses, I have been deceived, yes, I have
I'm going back to the border
Where my affairs, my affairs ain't been abused
I can't take any more bad water
I've been poisoned from my head down to my shoes
Yes, I have
Holy Moses, I have been removed
Holy Moses, can we live in peace
Let us try to find a way to make all hatred cease
There's a man standing over there
What's his color do you care
Holy Moses, can we live in peace
Holy Moses, can we live in peace
Holy Moses, can we live in
I wonder can we live in peace
Holy Moses, I have been removed
I have seen the spectre, he was been here too
Distant cousin from down the line
Brand of people who ain't my kind
Holy Moses, I have been removed
Holy Moses, I have been deceived
Now the wind has changed direction
I think I'll have to leave
Won't you please excuse my frankness
But it's not my cup of tea
Holy Moses, I have been deceived, yes, I have
I'm going back to the border
Where my affairs, my affairs ain't been abused
I can't take any more bad water
I've been poisoned from my head down to my shoes
Yes, I have
Holy Moses, I have been removed
Holy Moses, can we live in peace
Let us try to find a way to make all hatred cease
There's a man standing over there
What's his color do you care
Holy Moses, can we live in peace
Holy Moses, can we live in peace
Holy Moses, can we live in
I wonder can we live in peace
More Love
by the Dixie Chicks
I'm so close to you baby
But I'm so far away
There's a silence between us
And there's so much to say
You're my strength, you're my weakness
You're my faith, you're my doubt
We gotta meet in the middle
To work this thing out
More love, I can hear our hearts cryin'
More love, I know that's all we need
More love, to flow in between us
To take us and hold us and lift us above
If there's ever an answer
It's more love
We're afraid to be idle
So we fill up the days
We run on the treadmill
Keep slavin' away 'til there's no time for talkin'
About trouble in mind
And the doors are all closed
Between your heart and mine
More love, I can hear our hearts cryin'
More love, I know that's all we need
More love, to flow in between us
To take us and hold us and lift us above
If there's ever an answer
It's more love
Just look out around us
People fightin' their wars
They think they'll be happy
When they've settled their scores
Let's lay down our weapons
That hold us apart
Be still for just a minute
Try to open our hearts
More love, I can hear our hearts cryin'
More love, I know that's all we need
More love, to flow in between us
To take us and hold us and lift us above
If there's ever an answer
It's more love
I can hear our hearts cryin'
More love, I know that's all we need
More love, to flow in between us
To take us and hold us and lift us above
If there's ever an answer
It's more love
I'm so close to you baby
But I'm so far away
There's a silence between us
And there's so much to say
You're my strength, you're my weakness
You're my faith, you're my doubt
We gotta meet in the middle
To work this thing out
More love, I can hear our hearts cryin'
More love, I know that's all we need
More love, to flow in between us
To take us and hold us and lift us above
If there's ever an answer
It's more love
We're afraid to be idle
So we fill up the days
We run on the treadmill
Keep slavin' away 'til there's no time for talkin'
About trouble in mind
And the doors are all closed
Between your heart and mine
More love, I can hear our hearts cryin'
More love, I know that's all we need
More love, to flow in between us
To take us and hold us and lift us above
If there's ever an answer
It's more love
Just look out around us
People fightin' their wars
They think they'll be happy
When they've settled their scores
Let's lay down our weapons
That hold us apart
Be still for just a minute
Try to open our hearts
More love, I can hear our hearts cryin'
More love, I know that's all we need
More love, to flow in between us
To take us and hold us and lift us above
If there's ever an answer
It's more love
I can hear our hearts cryin'
More love, I know that's all we need
More love, to flow in between us
To take us and hold us and lift us above
If there's ever an answer
It's more love
U.S. Diplomat Violates Venezuelan Protocol
A U.S. diplomat appeared unannounced at the Venezuelan National Assembly. Something smells a bit COINTELPRO here. God Bless Hugo Chavez!
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
The Ten Books That Have Had the Most Influence on Me
In no particular order**.
Assata Shakur: The Autobiography
I read this book in college. I remember we were on a tournament and staying in a hotel. My friend Wanda had given me this and Elaine Brown's book. I cried after having read them both.
Angela Davis:The Autobiography
It must have been my freshman or sophomore year of college when I read this book. I have always been in awe of Angela Davis and I completely devoured the book. It was quite profound.
A Taste of Power- Elaine Brown’s Autobiography
Elaine Brown was very much unknown to me before I read this book my sophomore or junior year of college. This book, along with the others on this list, added something to my makeup and to my understanding and grasp of the world as I understand it today. Elaine Brown truly is an inspiration.
Possessing the Secret of Joy—Alice Walker
My favorite book. Enough said.
Giovanni’s Room- James Baldwin
I first read Giovanni's Room at the end of my junior year of college. I adore Jimmy Baldwin and this book definitely imprinted itself upon my consciousness. James Baldwin is a God.
Zami: A New Spelling of My Name- Audre Lorde
I read this book in the same period in which I read Giovanni's room. Audre Lorde is a Goddess/Mother of the earth. This book completely shook my foundation to the core and made me much more completely whole.
The Glory and the Dream- William Manchester
I read this book the summer after my sophomore year of High School for the A.P. American History course I took my junior year. It was quite profound and really made history a living entity for me, perhaps for the first time.
The Souls of Black Folk—W.E.B. DuBois
I got this book from my Uncle Lawrence's House when I was either thirteen or fourteen. DuBois was the first person I had ever read that profoundly shaped and influenced my intellect.
I Wonder as I Wander by Langston Hughes
I recieved this book from my Uncle Donald when I was about thirteen or fourteen. Langston's account of his travels and his descriptions of people and places all over the world from China to Cuba to Tashkent had a profound effect on me.
Before the Mayflower: A History of Black America by Lerone Bennett Jr.
I also recieved this book from my Uncle Lawrence's house. Whenever I would visit him, he would send me off with a big box of books from his library. This was one of them. It is a great history text.
Also worthy of mention:
Sex and Race series by J.A. Rogers
** Any of it may change at any time.
Assata Shakur: The Autobiography
I read this book in college. I remember we were on a tournament and staying in a hotel. My friend Wanda had given me this and Elaine Brown's book. I cried after having read them both.
Angela Davis:The Autobiography
It must have been my freshman or sophomore year of college when I read this book. I have always been in awe of Angela Davis and I completely devoured the book. It was quite profound.
A Taste of Power- Elaine Brown’s Autobiography
Elaine Brown was very much unknown to me before I read this book my sophomore or junior year of college. This book, along with the others on this list, added something to my makeup and to my understanding and grasp of the world as I understand it today. Elaine Brown truly is an inspiration.
Possessing the Secret of Joy—Alice Walker
My favorite book. Enough said.
Giovanni’s Room- James Baldwin
I first read Giovanni's Room at the end of my junior year of college. I adore Jimmy Baldwin and this book definitely imprinted itself upon my consciousness. James Baldwin is a God.
Zami: A New Spelling of My Name- Audre Lorde
I read this book in the same period in which I read Giovanni's room. Audre Lorde is a Goddess/Mother of the earth. This book completely shook my foundation to the core and made me much more completely whole.
The Glory and the Dream- William Manchester
I read this book the summer after my sophomore year of High School for the A.P. American History course I took my junior year. It was quite profound and really made history a living entity for me, perhaps for the first time.
The Souls of Black Folk—W.E.B. DuBois
I got this book from my Uncle Lawrence's House when I was either thirteen or fourteen. DuBois was the first person I had ever read that profoundly shaped and influenced my intellect.
I Wonder as I Wander by Langston Hughes
I recieved this book from my Uncle Donald when I was about thirteen or fourteen. Langston's account of his travels and his descriptions of people and places all over the world from China to Cuba to Tashkent had a profound effect on me.
Before the Mayflower: A History of Black America by Lerone Bennett Jr.
I also recieved this book from my Uncle Lawrence's house. Whenever I would visit him, he would send me off with a big box of books from his library. This was one of them. It is a great history text.
Also worthy of mention:
Sex and Race series by J.A. Rogers
** Any of it may change at any time.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
An Endorsement of Daniel Ortega
The evil, wicked United States is trying to sway the Nigcauraguan vote away from leftist, progressive Daniel Ortega. Someone should very much counter this effort and tell the United States to go to hell.
Monday, October 23, 2006
Ludlow Massacre
by Woody Guthrie
It was early springtime when the strike was on,
They drove us miners out of doors,
Out from the houses that the Company owned,
We moved into tents up at old Ludlow.
I was worried bad about my children,
Soldiers guarding the railroad bridge,
Every once in a while a bullet would fly,
Kick up gravel under my feet.
We were so afraid you would kill our children,
We dug us a cave that was seven foot deep,
Carried our young ones and pregnant women
Down inside the cave to sleep.
That very night your soldiers waited,
Until all us miners were asleep,
You snuck around our little tent town,
Soaked our tents with your kerosene.
You struck a match and in the blaze that started,
You pulled the triggers of your gatling guns,
I made a run for the children but the fire wall stopped me.
Thirteen children died from your guns.
I carried my blanket to a wire fence corner,
Watched the fire till the blaze died down,
I helped some people drag their belongings,
While your bullets killed us all around.
I never will forget the look on the faces
Of the men and women that awful day,
When we stood around to preach their funerals,
And lay the corpses of the dead away.
We told the Colorado Governor to call the President,
Tell him to call off his National Guard,
But the National Guard belonged to the Governor,
So he didn't try so very hard.
Our women from Trinidad they hauled some potatoes,
Up to Walsenburg in a little cart,
They sold their potatoes and brought some guns back,
And they put a gun in every hand.
The state soldiers jumped us in a wire fence corners,
They did not know we had these guns,
And the Red-neck Miners mowed down these troopers,
You should have seen those poor boys run.
We took some cement and walled that cave up,
Where you killed these thirteen children inside,
I said, "God bless the Mine Workers' Union,"
And then I hung my head and cried.
Words and Music by Woody Guthrie
It was early springtime when the strike was on,
They drove us miners out of doors,
Out from the houses that the Company owned,
We moved into tents up at old Ludlow.
I was worried bad about my children,
Soldiers guarding the railroad bridge,
Every once in a while a bullet would fly,
Kick up gravel under my feet.
We were so afraid you would kill our children,
We dug us a cave that was seven foot deep,
Carried our young ones and pregnant women
Down inside the cave to sleep.
That very night your soldiers waited,
Until all us miners were asleep,
You snuck around our little tent town,
Soaked our tents with your kerosene.
You struck a match and in the blaze that started,
You pulled the triggers of your gatling guns,
I made a run for the children but the fire wall stopped me.
Thirteen children died from your guns.
I carried my blanket to a wire fence corner,
Watched the fire till the blaze died down,
I helped some people drag their belongings,
While your bullets killed us all around.
I never will forget the look on the faces
Of the men and women that awful day,
When we stood around to preach their funerals,
And lay the corpses of the dead away.
We told the Colorado Governor to call the President,
Tell him to call off his National Guard,
But the National Guard belonged to the Governor,
So he didn't try so very hard.
Our women from Trinidad they hauled some potatoes,
Up to Walsenburg in a little cart,
They sold their potatoes and brought some guns back,
And they put a gun in every hand.
The state soldiers jumped us in a wire fence corners,
They did not know we had these guns,
And the Red-neck Miners mowed down these troopers,
You should have seen those poor boys run.
We took some cement and walled that cave up,
Where you killed these thirteen children inside,
I said, "God bless the Mine Workers' Union,"
And then I hung my head and cried.
Words and Music by Woody Guthrie
Sunday, October 22, 2006
In Profile: Mattie Roper
My great-great grandmother was named Martha/Mattie Roper. Her mother,Caroline Roper, was the white daughter of a methodist minister and her father was a mulatto stud named Greenberry Smith. To look at her, she could have easily passed for a white woman. They say you couldnt tell she had any color until her children came around. I often wonder about her personality. It is also said that she was the best shot in Autauga County and that when her husband would get in his moods and not want to work, she would pick up the plow herself. She was a trained midwife and practiced in natural herbs and rememdies. My grandmother says that when she was a young girl, She would travel around to all of her children's homes loaded with preventive medicines to make sure none of them ever got sick. They say that she always wore pants and I suppose she was quite the tom boy.She and Morgan definitely had an interesting marriage, that I can tell just by the few things I know and have seen. She was born in 1857 and had her first child at 14, King Philip Goodson. She had her last child at 60. It is said that she died during an argument with her husband Morgan. We still have portraits of her. She and Morgan had 15 children that lived to adulthood and left ample property and legacy for their children.
When I was little, my mother and father used to tease me all of the time telling me that hwne I turned 18, I was going to have to join the military. My thoughts were hmm...yea...and then I would also be a bit frightened/not pleased and wonder why it wasnt my sister that would have to go. The prospects of such rigidity never sat well with me and the idea of anyone hollering at me..and I knew I couldnt run anywhere for any length of time and especially at 5 a.m. They loved to torture me like that. I do find it interesting to think about, however, the prospects that exists with other young boys, for as I definitely have never been under the threat of military service, I am sure that is not true for many, many youth.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Rock of Ages
I had an interesting conversation last night. This girl asked me about my identity and where I was from and such and so forth. So, I told her that my family was from the south, was large and cohesive. It started me to thinking about identity--and how it is very much sometimes tied to place as well as to kinship. After that discussion, this song started playing in my head
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.
Not the labor of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and Thou alone.
Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to Thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Savior, or I die.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When my eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And behold Thee on Thy throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee.
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee;
Let the water and the blood,
From Thy wounded side which flowed,
Be of sin the double cure,
Save from wrath and make me pure.
Not the labor of my hands
Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;
Could my zeal no respite know,
Could my tears forever flow,
All for sin could not atone;
Thou must save, and Thou alone.
Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to Thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to Thee for dress;
Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Savior, or I die.
While I draw this fleeting breath,
When my eyes shall close in death,
When I rise to worlds unknown,
And behold Thee on Thy throne,
Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Day before yesterday, I was riding in the car with Clint on my way home and we passed by the statue of the worker that is situated right before the football stadium and I began to think about the original purpose for this university, and perhaps my connection to it. Tied to this as well, I asl o noticed a bust of Abraham Lincoln sitting in one of the foyers on campus, dedicated to his contribution to the university with the signing of the Morrill Act. This university was founded to educate the children of farmers and laborers. It was a socialized program, begun with the Morrill Act to offer education to those who were not the wealthy elite. Its original purpose was to inspire these communities, help them develop and enhance their farms, their lives, and their communities by learning skills and inventive methods. There was a true social element at the core of this vision. I often wonder what it is today. I think about the founding of this university and its comparable stance with my families alma mater, Alabama State University and also Tuskegee University. Alabama State is a land grant institution just the same and although Tuskegee is private the intentions were the same. It makes me think of my Uncle Fess McDavid and how he would bring the professors and other people from Tuskeegee into Autauga County to teach the farmers new methods of farming, to interact with the students in his school. It was quite a philosophy of doing things. I think it is blessed. God Bless Fess McDavid and all other progressive minded people.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Letter Written to Howard Zinn
Dear Dr. Zinn,
I have long been an admirer of yours. You have profoundly influenced me in so
many ways, even before I read A People's History in High School, as I am a
profound follower of Alice Walker. One thing that I would like to question you
about is the philosophy of nonviolence. I myself, at this time, am not
committed to nonviolence. I believe in nonagression and I don't believe in war,
but if someone has their foot on my throat I am going to try and cut that foot
off and yes, kill them if I have to. The question, I suppose, is how can one
reconcile the idea of nonviolence with June Jordan's wonderful pronouncement
in "Poem About My Rights" that " I don't know who in the hell set things up
like this, but I can tell you that from now on in my simple and daily and
nightly resistance, in my very self-deteermination, it may very well cost you
your life." How do you reconcile these two things? Is there a contradiction? or
does nonviolence allow for this? I would hope, and like to think so. I am not
sure. I am waiting to be convinced otherwise.
I have long been an admirer of yours. You have profoundly influenced me in so
many ways, even before I read A People's History in High School, as I am a
profound follower of Alice Walker. One thing that I would like to question you
about is the philosophy of nonviolence. I myself, at this time, am not
committed to nonviolence. I believe in nonagression and I don't believe in war,
but if someone has their foot on my throat I am going to try and cut that foot
off and yes, kill them if I have to. The question, I suppose, is how can one
reconcile the idea of nonviolence with June Jordan's wonderful pronouncement
in "Poem About My Rights" that " I don't know who in the hell set things up
like this, but I can tell you that from now on in my simple and daily and
nightly resistance, in my very self-deteermination, it may very well cost you
your life." How do you reconcile these two things? Is there a contradiction? or
does nonviolence allow for this? I would hope, and like to think so. I am not
sure. I am waiting to be convinced otherwise.
It Sounds Like Richard Nixon is Back at Work Again
Someone in California has been sending outnotes to Hispanic residents telling them that if they aren't born in this country, it is illegal for them to vote.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Diane Rehm
Listening to Diane Rehm today was absolutely horrifying! These people are actually building a wall. Like it's going to do any good anyhow. However, I think that is horrifying and these people are absolutely crazy and need to go to hell.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
U.N.I.T.Y
Queen Latifah
Uh, U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity
U.N.I.T.Y., love a black man from infinity to infinity
(Who you calling a bitch?)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black woman from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black man from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
Instinct leads me to another flow
Everytime I hear a brother call a girl a bitch or a ho
Trying to make a sister feel low
You know all of that gots to go
Now everybody knows there's exceptions to this rule
Now don't be getting mad, when we playing, it's cool
But don't you be calling out my name
I bring wrath to those who disrespect me like a dame
That's why I'm talking, one day I was walking down the block
I had my cutoff shorts on right cause it was crazy hot
I walked past these dudes when they passed me
One of 'em felt my booty, he was nasty
I turned around red, somebody was catching the wrath
Then the little one said (Yeah me bitch) and laughed
Since he was with his boys he tried to break fly
Huh, I punched him dead in his eye and said "Who you calling a bitch?"
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black woman from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black man from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
I hit the bottom, ain't nowhere else to go but up
Bad days at work, if you an attitude then you were rough
And take it out on me but that's about enough
You put your hands on me again I'll put your ass in handcuffs
I guess I fell so deep in love I grew dependency
I was too blind to see just how it was affecting me
All I knew was you, you was all the man I had
And I was scared to let you go, even though you treated me bad
But I don't want my kids to see me getting beat down
By daddy smacking mommy all around
You say I'm nothing without ya, but I'm nothing with ya
A man don't really love you if he hits ya
This is my notice to the door, I'm not taking it no more
I'm not your personal whore, that's not what I'm here for
And nothing good gonna come to ya til you do right by me
Brother you ain't ?sick? (Who you calling a bitch?)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black woman from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black man from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
What's going on in your mind is what I ask ya
But like Yo-Yo, you don't hear me though
You wear a rag around your head and you
Call yourself a "Gangsta Bitch" now that you saw Apache's video
I saw you wilding, acting like a fool
I peeped you out the window jumping girls after school
But where did all of this come from?
A minute ago, you was a nerd and nobody ever heard of ya
Now you a wannabe...hard
You barely know your ABC's, please
There's plenty of people out there with triggers ready to pull it
Why you trying to jump in front of the bullet (Young lady)
Uh, and real bad girls are the silent type
Ain't none of this work getting your face sliced
Cause that's what happened to your homegirl, right? Bucking with nobody
She got to wear that for life (Who you calling a bitch?)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black woman from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black man from (You must let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
Uh, U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity
U.N.I.T.Y., love a black man from infinity to infinity
(Who you calling a bitch?)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black woman from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black man from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
Instinct leads me to another flow
Everytime I hear a brother call a girl a bitch or a ho
Trying to make a sister feel low
You know all of that gots to go
Now everybody knows there's exceptions to this rule
Now don't be getting mad, when we playing, it's cool
But don't you be calling out my name
I bring wrath to those who disrespect me like a dame
That's why I'm talking, one day I was walking down the block
I had my cutoff shorts on right cause it was crazy hot
I walked past these dudes when they passed me
One of 'em felt my booty, he was nasty
I turned around red, somebody was catching the wrath
Then the little one said (Yeah me bitch) and laughed
Since he was with his boys he tried to break fly
Huh, I punched him dead in his eye and said "Who you calling a bitch?"
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black woman from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black man from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
I hit the bottom, ain't nowhere else to go but up
Bad days at work, if you an attitude then you were rough
And take it out on me but that's about enough
You put your hands on me again I'll put your ass in handcuffs
I guess I fell so deep in love I grew dependency
I was too blind to see just how it was affecting me
All I knew was you, you was all the man I had
And I was scared to let you go, even though you treated me bad
But I don't want my kids to see me getting beat down
By daddy smacking mommy all around
You say I'm nothing without ya, but I'm nothing with ya
A man don't really love you if he hits ya
This is my notice to the door, I'm not taking it no more
I'm not your personal whore, that's not what I'm here for
And nothing good gonna come to ya til you do right by me
Brother you ain't ?sick? (Who you calling a bitch?)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black woman from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black man from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
What's going on in your mind is what I ask ya
But like Yo-Yo, you don't hear me though
You wear a rag around your head and you
Call yourself a "Gangsta Bitch" now that you saw Apache's video
I saw you wilding, acting like a fool
I peeped you out the window jumping girls after school
But where did all of this come from?
A minute ago, you was a nerd and nobody ever heard of ya
Now you a wannabe...hard
You barely know your ABC's, please
There's plenty of people out there with triggers ready to pull it
Why you trying to jump in front of the bullet (Young lady)
Uh, and real bad girls are the silent type
Ain't none of this work getting your face sliced
Cause that's what happened to your homegirl, right? Bucking with nobody
She got to wear that for life (Who you calling a bitch?)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black woman from (You got to let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
(Here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., U.N.I.T.Y. that's a unity (You gotta let him know)
(You go, come on here we go)
U.N.I.T.Y., Love a black man from (You must let him know)
infinity to infinity (You ain't a bitch or a ho)
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Project Runway
If Nina Garcia were God, on judgement day I would have to bypass heaven and go straight to hell.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Project Runway
I am soo rooting for Michael. I wonder what happened wth Jeffrey. I must say that the experience has been a bit dampened for me because I have been reading some of the blogs and they have updates before the show even airs. I knew there was going to be a final four. Alas, I can't wait to see what happens!
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Yesterday/last night/this morning was an interesting series of events. As the school is on break, I decided to make a day trip to Indianapolis, which I did. It was quite enjoyable. C and I joined up with my friend Rolanda and saw the step show at the Convention Center. Before hand, we had dinner at a nice restaurant. Indy was quite lovely yssterday and I would have been quite content to sit in the park or on Monument Circle and read and take in the day...but it was definitely nice just the same. So that night after the step show, C and I left the convention center and headed back towards her car which was over in the park on the other side of the monument. It was 11 at night and there were throngs of BLack people out and about as the Circle City Classics had just ended and the step show had just let out. As we reached the corner a couple of streets up from the Convention Center, we saw a police officer holding this little black boy, who was no more than ten years old, very agressively in handcuffs. What an image. As a mixed blessing, the local television news had their cameras on and were recording the whole thing....at least its documented. It would have been better if the Black Panthers had been there....God where are the people we need now. Huey? Rap? Someone needs to heed the call and pick back up the banner....We definitely need radical progressive change and movement in this society. So, witnessing this incident sparked a conversation between Candace and I about what that image symbolized--that young Black boy in handcuffs in front of the camera....the message it was supposed to send out to the Black community, the ramifications of it, and the horridness of it. Candace became very angry and stopped and confronted some police officers about the way they handled Black youth their in the city.I was quite in awe of her and the courage and dignity that she possessed in that moment. I definitely did not do it.THat sat on our minds for the rest of the night...and still sits on our minds I am quite sure(at least it does on mine). Well, that was not the end of the night. So we jetset back to Lafayette and make it there by one at which point she wants to go to Hookah. Im already cold and a little tired but I agree....to sum it all up...it was a very enjoyable night indeed....but I am still sleepy and I didnt make it home til 6 a.m. I still havent slept. Alas, lots to mull over. Lots to reflect on. I will make another post about that young boy and the power structure that we live in.
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