35 thoughts on “What are the critical issues this election year?”
Progressive Agenda
There are two sets of issues: what the media consider the issues, and what really should be the issues. I’ll focus on the second point and put forth this modest agenda:
(a) renegotiation/reexamination of so-called free trade agreements, such as NAFTA
(b) Universal healthcare
(c) A truly progressive tax system–the more you earn, the more is taken away
(d) Cutting of the military budget by 50%
(e) the elimination of the 20% child poverty rate in this country
(f) Better paid teachers who are qualified to teach
(g) Major investment in national wealth–ie, school buildings, mass transit, fixing of bridges, tunnels, etc.
I’ll be running for President in 2004. See you then! 🙂
The question of Puerto Rico
I think foreign policy issues should also include the direction the U.S. is taking in relation to Puerto Rico and other Caribbean nations, especially Cuba. The colonial issue with Puerto Rico must be resolved and should be taken up as an issue by the Presidential candidates. It is a hot non-issue, as reflected by the media and the presidential candidates’ reticence. I believe Puerto Ricans on the island must really take the issue up or have the course of their history decided for them. Time will erode the Puerto Rican culture which is daily bombarded by Americana rather than given space for its own further development. The material life of Puerto Ricans has already been transformed and the threat is really the overdevelopment of the island passed the point of no return. The naval presence on the island and moving within the next administration to completely shut it down. Ironically, our history is again intertwined with Cuba’s. In the fifties we became further absorbed by the Metropolis, while they embarked on a radically different course that made them a satellite of the Soviet Union. Now, again, Cuba is adrift trying to find her way without the protective shadow of the former Soviet Union. And Puerto Rico, too, is at a crossroads in her history with the United States figuring highly in the fate of both nations. I believe Puerto Ricans in the U.S. should really be setting the groundwork for policy changes in relation to both countries. I don’t know how this will play in Miami, but I believe that Puerto Rico’s future–at least from a U.S. position–involves developing a new foreign policy in relation to the Caribbean. And I believe it is important for the leadership of Puerto Rico to be setting a course of action based on what she can achieve in relation to the other Caribbean nations, including Cuba. The Puerto Rican leadership stateside should also be exploring this perspective and setting up a plan of action. Colonialism should end, but what will it look like? Statehood or independence? Congressman Serrano is taking steps in this direction and should be lauded for it. Also, what is the national agenda for Puerto Ricans on the island and how does this conform with an international perspective? In other words, how does Puerto Rico see herself in the community of nations? Where is her place?
What is the national agenda for Puerto Ricans in the U.S.? And does that agenda include a position on Puerto Rico? These are just some thoughts. I would like to hear from the Puerto Rican leadership either in Puerto Rico or stateside on some of what I have presented here.
I think it’s great
Hey, I think it’s great that you’re thinking of running for President. I would never vote for you but…. 😉
RE: I think it
Daqmn–and I was going to make you Secretary of State!! 🙂
RE: RE: I think it
Another missed opportunity! Be that as it may. I would place health and education high on the list of agenda items for the U.S.
A few more serious and pressing issues
Another unused board. Perhaps an indication of –well.
I want to add that the pollution of Puerto Rico’s environment should be part of the island political agenda and this, of course, would include Vieques where people have been exposed to ammunition pollutants, radiation and horrendous levels of noise. or sound pollution.
In adddition, I think the manmade drought problem of the island requires real longterm planning. Associated with this is the overbuilding of the island.
critical issues……
Let’s start with voting those politicians who sat around and said nothing about the US Naval presence in Vieques. Better yet, let’s rid Puerto Rico of those politicians whom sided with the Clinton administration in allowing the Navy to resume its torture of Vieques.
RE: critical issues……
How about all the stateside politicians, especially Latino/Puerto Rican political leaders, who watched our communities and schools go down the tubes without doing anything, or at the very least, speaking out? What’s going on in El Barrio and the whole Economic Empowerment Zone issue? Why haven’t projects been funded in El Barrio? I would like to see City leaders, especially Latinos, speak out about this and get the media attention it should!
Missing the boat–we need to vote!
You guys are missing the boat. Stateside Puerto Ricans just don’t vote. That’s why our communities are a wreck and our so-called leaders get away with murder. I say we need a really heavy voters registration drive.
National election…
Why shouldn’t the question of using Vieques as a bomb testing site for NATO not be the key question Puertorriquenos should ask before casting their ballots. This is the first time I can recall that we have come together, almost universally, on an Island related issue.
Single issue platforms have gotten people in and out of office in the past. Occasionally, an issue arises that over rides all other considerations; and with respect to Puerto Rico, this is certainly that issue.
RE: National election…
You took the words right out of my mouth! I agree with you completely. There will be fallout surrounding this action. Puerto Ricans and other Latinos will unite around this.
White Ribbons
In one of the pictures from Vieques I noticed an elderly woman standing next to a fence covered in white ribbons. In an
article elsewhere I read the ribbons stood for Peace.
In honor of this woman and Vieques, I have placed a white ribbon on the attenae of my car. In addition, I have copied
the Marina Fuera Sign and placed it in my car window.
I encourage all Vieques supporters to do the same.
Everyone, Place a White Ribbon on your car, trees, picket signs, etc to symbolize the fight for Naval freedom in
Vieques.
In the 90’s I was a yellow ribbon supporter of the Troops in Gulf War. I had many college friend and school teachers
called to the war.
While the ribbons themselves did not bring them home, The display of the yellow ribbons everywhere supported our
friends and loved ones as called by the military.
I knew people of all ages, all walks of life and all races supporting and knowing what these ribbons were for.
It is a similiar story with the pink ribbons for breast cancer awareness and other ribbons for causes.
When people do not know what the ribbons mean, they ask questions and we can share the information to spread
awareness of the plight of Vieques.
Please everyone, Find a White Ribbon somewhere and Show the fight for Vieques is not ending with a few
demonstrations here and there.
The large battle is at hand. We must spread the word of Vieques and get more people involved.
I am so happy to see that there are so many cities having demonstatrations, but there should be more.
We need to write letters, send emails, and encourage our representatives to have a bill passed to cease Naval activites
in Vieques.
The time is now. Voting seasons will be coming soon, and we need all the votes and supporters we can muster.
The pictures have helped, but Everyone needs to know.
GODPEACE
Vieques SI
Marina NO
PEACE TO VIEQUES No More BOMBS (concrete or Live!)
Fuera la marina, fuera Rosello
At the Times Square rally in New York this past Saturday, people called for the ousting of the Navy, the ousting of Rosello and the ousting of Romero Barcelo. The Puerto Rican electorate of the island should show its disapproval of this administration by voting them out. And those leaders in the U.S., whether Puerto Rican or not, who did not support Vieques, they too should feel the brunt of our disapproval.
RE: critical issues……
Great suggestion. Can you share your list?
Politicized environmental issues
I don’t understand why environmental issues on the island and in our communities aren’t more politicized and tied into our heatlth issues.
RE: Politicized environmental issues
Perhaps because we are not educated on the issues of science in general (I mean, we are the only industrialized country where people not only do not accept evolution as the best explanation for life’s development, they seek to remove it from school science courses). One cannot legitimately be politicized unless one knows how the world works in terms of ecosystems. If we as a community and as a country would rather spend our time on the trivial and meaningless, what exactly do we have to contribute to the conversation?
RE: Missing the boat–we need to vote!
I agree and would also add that after the election is over, the pressure continue to be put on politicians. Voting is not enough unless it’s followed by public pressure.
Latinos and the electoral process
Once again, on both the local and national levels, Latino communities are faced with the question of what, if any, influence we will have on the electoral process. On the local level (I will focus on New York City and State, but I’m sure that the issues are similar in other cities and states with significant Latino populations)Latinos are in the position of becoming the “swing vote” and having a significant impact on the electoral outcome. However, due to the usual internecine warfare we face the risk of division and political impotence. How many times do we need to watch the same movie/video in order to know the outcome. An added factor is that it seems the Democratic Party assumes that Latinos will automatically vote for the party candidate and that, therefore, the party’s resources are better spent attempting to attract votes from other blocs which are “undecided”. The Democratic Party seems to forget that a significant number of the Latino electorate voted for Guiliani in both of the last two mayoral elections. The apparent schism between the latino political “leaders”, who are overwhelmingly members of the Democratic Party and, for the most part, “machine” politicians, and the electorate, which is much more pragmatic and, oftentimes, more conservative, particularly on social issues and “law and order” issues, seems to get lost in the shuffle.
One of the results of the internal divisions within and between the various Latino communities in New York City, NYS and throughout the U.S., and of the lack of inclusion of Latinos in the process (except, of course, when they need your vote) and the continuing sense that our issues are not given their due importance and/or attention (again, except at election time) is that a signifcant number of eligible Latino voters do not vote. This is not due to laziness, or any of the other “blame the victim” type explanations one can hear bandied about, but is, instead, due to the sense that WE DO NOT MATTER to “mainstream” america, except, of course, when we are committing crimes, or otherwise threatening the status quo.
Folks, it is about time that we grab the reins and stop waiting for others to lead us. It’s called GRASS ROOTS POLITICS. Most important issues, i.e., those which affect OUR people on a day to day basis, (housing, education, jobs, etc.) get addressed and resolved (if at all) at the local level. While it is harder work and less glamorous (no plaques, trophies, invitations to the WHITE House), local, grass roots organizing and activism is where a real impact can be made.
This is not to say that national and state politics are unimportant, but that we need to re-orient our focus toward serving our communities ourselves and stop waiting for others to do it for us.
RE: Missing the boat–we need to vote!
Where and when do you want to start. Criticism is easy, action takes a little more effort.
RE: RE: critical issues……
So, JoAnn. What do you suggest we do about this and what are YOU willing to commit yourself to doing in order to address the problem as YOU see it.
You know the old adage, “action speaks louder than words!”
RE: Progressive Agenda
In the meantime, Senor Presidente, what do YOU propose to do to help alleviate any one of the many deleterious conditions affecting our various communities.
As soon as you are reading to engage in some DOING, just let me know.
RE: RE: Progressive Agenda
Oooh, a potential major contributor! 🙂
First of all, I’d say a serious look at (for example) the Green Party–what is needed is a multicultural/gender based organization, where the people actually run the party; where there is a commitment to soicial change and improvement of the lives of people. Of course, the contradiction between capitalism and democracy should also be reexamined. NONE of this means didley, however, without education. How many Latinos are there who are knowledgable about a multitude of topics? Without education, how can you answer any objections? How can one intelligently discuss anything–such as environmental degradation, economic policy (why raising interest rates, for example, hurts the majority at the expense of the minority), etc.
People have to actually (when at all possible) face to face–enough with the vast wasteland, TV Those Latinos who have “made it” (a relative term) need to stay in our neighborhoods, not go away to suburbia, thus leaving behind those who would benefit the most. We also need to agitate for changes in our drug policies, so our poor communities do not pay the price (because, as we all know, white people do not do drugs!). There are many more topics, but I think this is a start. Maybe others can add to this list.
Will this be easy? Nope. However, why let that stop us?
Green Party, etc.
Hey Victor:
It was good to see that somewhat out there is actually following up on this Bulletin Board. It should serve for more than just a “gripe session” without any follow up.
I agree with just about everything you said, though I did sense a touch of arrogance my intellectually gifted brother. You folks in the vanguard have to be careful about assumptions re the “intelligence” of your average Juan/Juana. Book knowledge does not intelligence make.
Anyway, this isn’t meant to be a forum for personal attacks, just thought that needed to be said.
So what is the repsonsibility that those of us with a well developed “formal” education have to our communities? Whenever I hear one of my colleagues who has “made it”, I try to (gently) make it a point to remind them that if it hadn’t been for people laying down their lives back in the 60’s and before (and continually), the doors od opportunity would not have opened even to the slight extent that they did back then. As an Ivy-league law grad, I often encountered some of my “sisters and brothers” who are more interested in assimilation, moving to the suburbs and “passing” than in contributing to the betterment of the community. But that is a personal choice.
I noticed that you did not respond to my inquiry re what YOU are ready to do (other than post e-mails to Bulletin Boards like this one) to change the situation as you see it. While I definitely agree that we need at least a viable third, fourth fifth (or actually a second, after the “republocrats”) party, I think the real, concrete social changes take place at the local, grass roots level. The web can provide the means by which to enhance the effectiveness of such efforts, or at least gwetting the word out.
By the way, where are you located. I am in NYC and am involved in the creation of a grassroots political action organization, the Campaign for a New Democracy (CND) which will gear itself to precisely the type of grass roots activity I think is the key. Housing, education, emloyment, environmental racism, the list of potential issues goes on. Another big issue area is “direct democracy” (i.e., enhancing the opportunities for folks to become directly involved in the process) and the move to include referendum, initiative and recall and another “direct democracy” tools in local, state and national political processes.
Are you interested in becoming involved in something of the sort or will you be content to be our resident philosopher, Platon? Please advise: ventura-rosa@mail.com
RE: RE: RE: Progressive Agenda
See reply under my name “Rafael Ventura-Rosa” re: Green Party.
RE: Green Party, etc.
“Vanguard?” Moi? I think not. “Intellectually arrogant?” Hmm, where have I heard that before? Because I insist on “book knowledge?” It’s a shame that’s where our culture now stands, that only “Who wants to be a Millionaire” counts as intelligence on TV. No, book knowledge isn’t all, but it IS necessary–after all, how good a lawyer would you be without “book knowledge?” All I meant by my (constant) stress on education, is that without knowing HOW things got to the way they are (history, in other words, but also economics, political science, etc.) we engage in the sin of presentism–the view that all that matters or is important is the present.
It’s always been a great source of pain and embarassment to have to go over details which most should know. That’s another topic for another day, however. We could take a page from the African-American community–throughout it’s 400 plus years in this country, education (“book knowledge”) was very important to the community. They grasped the point, that unless one can analyze/understand the world, one cannot critique it.
I’m in Denver, and spent the weekend at the Green Party convention. I’m exhausted, and you raise some interesting points, which I’ll look at during the next day or two.
P.S.–I’m more Kantian that Platonist, but that’s neither here nor there. 🙂
The election in New York
I really believe it is time for the
Puertorican community of N.Y. to effect
the results of the next election by
voting against the democratic party
our traditional party but Mrs.Clinton
should be defeated since her husband
who has the power stop the bombing in
Vieques if he wanted to,but he refuses
second the dem.party takes our votes for granted,we can prove them that we
hold the power.
RE: RE: Green Party, etc.
If your responses do not smack of intellectual arrogance, I don’t know what does. You are obviously taken with your own “intellectual superiority”. But, lrt’s not personalize things. I would like to know if anything (other than talking) is ever going to be done by all of these “psuedo-alternative” parties. It should be an interesting political year.
RE: RE: RE: Green Party, etc.
So my answers smack of “intellectual arrogance,” yet “let’s not personalize things?” Unbelievable. Here’s an attorney, someone who obviously spent 7 years gaining “book knowledge” and uses it in daily practice, yet refuses to get the simple point. If you think things are the way they are because of a divine plan or coincidence, then yes, “book knowledge” is unimportant. If, on the other hand, one insists that though “book knowledge” is not the end of life (after all, I grew up in the 70s and 80s on the streets of Williamsburg–why would I fail to grasp that point? On the other hand, few “made it” out of the ‘hood into a decent life without SOME “book knowledge”)it is an anchor.
If my responses strike anyone as “intellectually arrogant” then I apologize. That was not my intent; however, I will NOT apologize for insisting that we need to collectively get our asses out of the couch and go do some reading!!!!
RE: Latinos and the electoral process
Grassroots organizing is the only type of organizing that will have a significant impact in our communities. Whether CND can provide leadership in this is another question/issue. Because you propose a new organization, I assume that you find the organizations that already exist inadequate or bankrupt with respect to bringing out the Latino vote. Have you ever approached any organizations that have long track records in the community?
It seems that CND could just be another splinter group. How do you see the CND in relation the organizations that already exist locally, citywide, statewide and nationally.
RE: RE: RE: RE: Green Party, etc.
And once we are done with the reading, then what. When, if ever, does the doing begin? Or is this merely an intellectual exercise for you???
RE: RE: Latinos and the electoral process
CND is meant to be a non-partisan (.e., unaffiliated, non-aligned) organization which, while not ignoring the need to study and analyze in order to learn from the past, is geared toward action on a local level. Issues such as the creation of affordable housing, the improving the quality of public schools, insuring adequate healthcare, employment, job-training/retraining and other issues which have a day to day effect on people.
To say that the organization is a “splinter” is certtainly a misnomer since it has not broken off from any existing organization. It has grown out of the frustration of people, like myself, who have grown tired of bweing involved in orgnization where the primary (if not only) activity is for people to talk and intellectualize without a clear plan of ACTION. Don’t get me wrong, I am not an anti-intellectual. Quite the contrary. Study is indispensable and inseparable from action. But talk is cheap and, as cliche as it may sound, “action speaks louder than words”.
What part of the country are you in. CND is presently operating out of NYC but expects to expand nationally and to eventually have a presence in all 50 states and all U.S. territories/
colonies.
The bulk of its members and action oriented task forces will center around labor/community organizations and coalitions.
What if any organizations are you affiliated with?
RE: RE: RE: Latinos and the electoral process
I won’t say yet. How far have you gotten with the CND. Who are some of the other principals and what exactly is its agenda. Which are some of the organizations you’ve approached and which have joined you? What is CND’s position on the presidential candidates. What if any directive or message are you sending out to the people–as far as getting the vote out and supporting pro-community, pro-labor candidates? Would you please tell me more about CND?
[LaPaz] DNC2000 Pro-Vieques Coalition
The Puerto Rican Alliance of Los Angeles has formed the “DNC 2000 PRO-VIEQUES COALITION”, in order to have a strong presence at this year’s Democratic National Convention taking place in Los Angeles. We are endorsing the D2K NETWORK, which is composed of groups and individuals working to coordinate and support events and NON-VIOLENT protests during the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles, August 14-17.
We would like to invite individuals to participate and join the “DNC 2000
Pro-Vieques Coalition” in order to:
1) DEMAND the U.S. Navy out of Vieques, Puerto Rico NOW!
2) SUPPORT the people of Vieques’ struggle to call for an immediate end to
the U.S. Navy’s occupation of Vieques;
3) JOIN the many sectors in Puerto Rico who support the struggle for peace in Vieques and an end to the military occupation;
4) MAKE clear that the Vieques problem hasn’t ended or been resolved, which
is detrimental to all of Puerto Rico and the environment;
5) BRING international attention to the military violence against the people of Vieques, Puerto Rico.
Since there are many separate issues being addressed by an array of different groups, the D2KLA Network has developed specific themes for each of the 4 days of the Convention, so that working together, a more unified/amplified voice can be heard. From that perspective D2KLA offers this framework of broad themes for each of the days for protest at the DNC.
The goal is simply to help amplify in the strongest possible way major areas
of concern and to group activities with similar themes to magnify their impact. NO THEME IS SEEN AS MORE OR LESS IMPORTANT THAN ANY OTHER. By taking action in our own behalf and acting in solidarity with others we can insure that all of our issues are highlighted and given the optimum voice.
The D2KLA framework for activities at the DNC for the week of August 14 – 17
is as follows:
Monday, Aug. 14: UNITY-Human Need Not Corporate Greed! Labor, environment, welfare rights, criminal justice, wages for housework, abortion rights, truth in media, homelessness, pure food and water,
domestic violence, access for the disabled, peace for Iraq, the embargo on
Cuba-whatever your concerns, stand together and let your voice be heard.
Tuesday, Aug. 15: EQUALITY-An Injury to One is An Injury to All. Stop the hate and save the earth! Every being on earth has a right to live free of exploitation, oppression and extinction. We will stand together and not be divided by gender,
lifestyle, ability, ethnicity, nationality, religion, age-or even species!
Wednesday, Aug. 16: JUSTICE-Stop Police Brutality, Mass Incarceration, Racial Profiling, the Drug War, and the Death Penalty! 2 Million doing time-that’s the crime! Halt the criminalization of our
communities and free all political prisoners!
Thursday, Aug. 17: PEACE-Halt Militarism, Defend Indigenous people, Immigrant and Worker Rights, and Demand Economic Justice! We will no longer tolerate the killing of innocent people all over the
world in the interest of the rich, and demand a moratorium on biological,
chemical, nuclear weapons, and all overseas military exercises! From Native
American sovereignty to global poverty, we will build international solidarity and demand economic and environmental justice as one!
As of now, the “DNC 2000 PRO-VIEQUES COALITION” will be marching on the FINAL DAY, THURSDAY, AUGUST 17TH, THE DAY OF PEACE, TO CALL FOR AN END TO VIEQUES’ MILITARY OCCUPATION AND DEMAND ECONOMIC/ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE FOR THE PEOPLE OF VIEQUES. The peaceful march and demonstrations will begin at 9:00a.m. from the People’s Convergence Center to the Staples Convention Area. We will end with a a peaceful, legal rally and march from Pershing Square to the Staples Center, where we will join a vigil during Gore’s acceptance speech. WE WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL 4 DAYS, BUT NEED TO
COORDINATE WITH INDIVIDUALS INTERESTED (due to work and other obligations).
**So far, we are conducting workshops on the following:
1) GIANT PUPPET MAKING, (e.g. puppets of Clinton/Rosello dropping bombs on Vieques);
2) DRUMMERS, CONGEROS, BONGOCEROS;
3) BANNERS AND PICKET SIGNS;
We also plan to have an evening VIEQUES EVENT/Seminar during the 4 days. (to be scheduled)
The Puerto Rican Alliance of Los Angeles invites everyone who supports the struggle of the people of Vieques
the “DNC 2000 PRO-VIEQUES COALITION”. We are still meeting and strategizing and would like to see if there is enough support (interest) for the Coalition to participate on other days as well. We need everyone’s help and support in preparing for these very critical days. For those who are coming from out of town, the PRA is also organizing housing and has set-up a DNC 2000 headquarters just 15 minutes from the Convention.
Colombian Massacres–a foreign policy issue
I think new policies towards Latin America should be part of the candidates’ platforms. I really have a problem when Latinos forego thinking about what happening in their respective countries of origin–in connection to the United States policies of developing state terrorism within so many of the countries our families come from. We need to have a consciousness of ourselves here but I also think we need to develop simultaneously a consciousness towards the foreign policies that are either getting us to or preventing us from coming to the States. Latinos have some sense of this but it’s not at all sophisticated, let alone articulated as a political issue or policy issue weighing in during an election year. I condemn the massacres of my Colombian brothers and sisters and feel it is unconscionable that the government I pay taxes to is making it possible. Damn! I’m upset and I am not nearly Colombian just pura borinqueña.
Vieques, etc.
Vieques, Puerto Rico, and other foreign policy issues such as Colombia need to be taken up by the candidates.
Progressive Agenda
There are two sets of issues: what the media consider the issues, and what really should be the issues. I’ll focus on the second point and put forth this modest agenda:
(a) renegotiation/reexamination of so-called free trade agreements, such as NAFTA
(b) Universal healthcare
(c) A truly progressive tax system–the more you earn, the more is taken away
(d) Cutting of the military budget by 50%
(e) the elimination of the 20% child poverty rate in this country
(f) Better paid teachers who are qualified to teach
(g) Major investment in national wealth–ie, school buildings, mass transit, fixing of bridges, tunnels, etc.
I’ll be running for President in 2004. See you then! 🙂
The question of Puerto Rico
I think foreign policy issues should also include the direction the U.S. is taking in relation to Puerto Rico and other Caribbean nations, especially Cuba. The colonial issue with Puerto Rico must be resolved and should be taken up as an issue by the Presidential candidates. It is a hot non-issue, as reflected by the media and the presidential candidates’ reticence. I believe Puerto Ricans on the island must really take the issue up or have the course of their history decided for them. Time will erode the Puerto Rican culture which is daily bombarded by Americana rather than given space for its own further development. The material life of Puerto Ricans has already been transformed and the threat is really the overdevelopment of the island passed the point of no return. The naval presence on the island and moving within the next administration to completely shut it down. Ironically, our history is again intertwined with Cuba’s. In the fifties we became further absorbed by the Metropolis, while they embarked on a radically different course that made them a satellite of the Soviet Union. Now, again, Cuba is adrift trying to find her way without the protective shadow of the former Soviet Union. And Puerto Rico, too, is at a crossroads in her history with the United States figuring highly in the fate of both nations. I believe Puerto Ricans in the U.S. should really be setting the groundwork for policy changes in relation to both countries. I don’t know how this will play in Miami, but I believe that Puerto Rico’s future–at least from a U.S. position–involves developing a new foreign policy in relation to the Caribbean. And I believe it is important for the leadership of Puerto Rico to be setting a course of action based on what she can achieve in relation to the other Caribbean nations, including Cuba. The Puerto Rican leadership stateside should also be exploring this perspective and setting up a plan of action. Colonialism should end, but what will it look like? Statehood or independence? Congressman Serrano is taking steps in this direction and should be lauded for it. Also, what is the national agenda for Puerto Ricans on the island and how does this conform with an international perspective? In other words, how does Puerto Rico see herself in the community of nations? Where is her place?
What is the national agenda for Puerto Ricans in the U.S.? And does that agenda include a position on Puerto Rico? These are just some thoughts. I would like to hear from the Puerto Rican leadership either in Puerto Rico or stateside on some of what I have presented here.
I think it’s great
Hey, I think it’s great that you’re thinking of running for President. I would never vote for you but…. 😉
RE: I think it
Daqmn–and I was going to make you Secretary of State!! 🙂
RE: RE: I think it
Another missed opportunity! Be that as it may. I would place health and education high on the list of agenda items for the U.S.
A few more serious and pressing issues
Another unused board. Perhaps an indication of –well.
I want to add that the pollution of Puerto Rico’s environment should be part of the island political agenda and this, of course, would include Vieques where people have been exposed to ammunition pollutants, radiation and horrendous levels of noise. or sound pollution.
In adddition, I think the manmade drought problem of the island requires real longterm planning. Associated with this is the overbuilding of the island.
critical issues……
Let’s start with voting those politicians who sat around and said nothing about the US Naval presence in Vieques. Better yet, let’s rid Puerto Rico of those politicians whom sided with the Clinton administration in allowing the Navy to resume its torture of Vieques.
RE: critical issues……
How about all the stateside politicians, especially Latino/Puerto Rican political leaders, who watched our communities and schools go down the tubes without doing anything, or at the very least, speaking out? What’s going on in El Barrio and the whole Economic Empowerment Zone issue? Why haven’t projects been funded in El Barrio? I would like to see City leaders, especially Latinos, speak out about this and get the media attention it should!
Missing the boat–we need to vote!
You guys are missing the boat. Stateside Puerto Ricans just don’t vote. That’s why our communities are a wreck and our so-called leaders get away with murder. I say we need a really heavy voters registration drive.
National election…
Why shouldn’t the question of using Vieques as a bomb testing site for NATO not be the key question Puertorriquenos should ask before casting their ballots. This is the first time I can recall that we have come together, almost universally, on an Island related issue.
Single issue platforms have gotten people in and out of office in the past. Occasionally, an issue arises that over rides all other considerations; and with respect to Puerto Rico, this is certainly that issue.
RE: National election…
You took the words right out of my mouth! I agree with you completely. There will be fallout surrounding this action. Puerto Ricans and other Latinos will unite around this.
White Ribbons
In one of the pictures from Vieques I noticed an elderly woman standing next to a fence covered in white ribbons. In an
article elsewhere I read the ribbons stood for Peace.
In honor of this woman and Vieques, I have placed a white ribbon on the attenae of my car. In addition, I have copied
the Marina Fuera Sign and placed it in my car window.
I encourage all Vieques supporters to do the same.
Everyone, Place a White Ribbon on your car, trees, picket signs, etc to symbolize the fight for Naval freedom in
Vieques.
In the 90’s I was a yellow ribbon supporter of the Troops in Gulf War. I had many college friend and school teachers
called to the war.
While the ribbons themselves did not bring them home, The display of the yellow ribbons everywhere supported our
friends and loved ones as called by the military.
I knew people of all ages, all walks of life and all races supporting and knowing what these ribbons were for.
It is a similiar story with the pink ribbons for breast cancer awareness and other ribbons for causes.
When people do not know what the ribbons mean, they ask questions and we can share the information to spread
awareness of the plight of Vieques.
Please everyone, Find a White Ribbon somewhere and Show the fight for Vieques is not ending with a few
demonstrations here and there.
The large battle is at hand. We must spread the word of Vieques and get more people involved.
I am so happy to see that there are so many cities having demonstatrations, but there should be more.
We need to write letters, send emails, and encourage our representatives to have a bill passed to cease Naval activites
in Vieques.
The time is now. Voting seasons will be coming soon, and we need all the votes and supporters we can muster.
The pictures have helped, but Everyone needs to know.
GODPEACE
Vieques SI
Marina NO
PEACE TO VIEQUES No More BOMBS (concrete or Live!)
Fuera la marina, fuera Rosello
At the Times Square rally in New York this past Saturday, people called for the ousting of the Navy, the ousting of Rosello and the ousting of Romero Barcelo. The Puerto Rican electorate of the island should show its disapproval of this administration by voting them out. And those leaders in the U.S., whether Puerto Rican or not, who did not support Vieques, they too should feel the brunt of our disapproval.
RE: critical issues……
Great suggestion. Can you share your list?
Politicized environmental issues
I don’t understand why environmental issues on the island and in our communities aren’t more politicized and tied into our heatlth issues.
RE: Politicized environmental issues
Perhaps because we are not educated on the issues of science in general (I mean, we are the only industrialized country where people not only do not accept evolution as the best explanation for life’s development, they seek to remove it from school science courses). One cannot legitimately be politicized unless one knows how the world works in terms of ecosystems. If we as a community and as a country would rather spend our time on the trivial and meaningless, what exactly do we have to contribute to the conversation?
RE: Missing the boat–we need to vote!
I agree and would also add that after the election is over, the pressure continue to be put on politicians. Voting is not enough unless it’s followed by public pressure.
Latinos and the electoral process
Once again, on both the local and national levels, Latino communities are faced with the question of what, if any, influence we will have on the electoral process. On the local level (I will focus on New York City and State, but I’m sure that the issues are similar in other cities and states with significant Latino populations)Latinos are in the position of becoming the “swing vote” and having a significant impact on the electoral outcome. However, due to the usual internecine warfare we face the risk of division and political impotence. How many times do we need to watch the same movie/video in order to know the outcome. An added factor is that it seems the Democratic Party assumes that Latinos will automatically vote for the party candidate and that, therefore, the party’s resources are better spent attempting to attract votes from other blocs which are “undecided”. The Democratic Party seems to forget that a significant number of the Latino electorate voted for Guiliani in both of the last two mayoral elections. The apparent schism between the latino political “leaders”, who are overwhelmingly members of the Democratic Party and, for the most part, “machine” politicians, and the electorate, which is much more pragmatic and, oftentimes, more conservative, particularly on social issues and “law and order” issues, seems to get lost in the shuffle.
One of the results of the internal divisions within and between the various Latino communities in New York City, NYS and throughout the U.S., and of the lack of inclusion of Latinos in the process (except, of course, when they need your vote) and the continuing sense that our issues are not given their due importance and/or attention (again, except at election time) is that a signifcant number of eligible Latino voters do not vote. This is not due to laziness, or any of the other “blame the victim” type explanations one can hear bandied about, but is, instead, due to the sense that WE DO NOT MATTER to “mainstream” america, except, of course, when we are committing crimes, or otherwise threatening the status quo.
Folks, it is about time that we grab the reins and stop waiting for others to lead us. It’s called GRASS ROOTS POLITICS. Most important issues, i.e., those which affect OUR people on a day to day basis, (housing, education, jobs, etc.) get addressed and resolved (if at all) at the local level. While it is harder work and less glamorous (no plaques, trophies, invitations to the WHITE House), local, grass roots organizing and activism is where a real impact can be made.
This is not to say that national and state politics are unimportant, but that we need to re-orient our focus toward serving our communities ourselves and stop waiting for others to do it for us.
I’m ready if you are.
Rafael Ventura-Rosa
Attorney at Law
917.421.8695
ventura-rosa@mail.com
ventura-rosa@lawyers.com
RE: Missing the boat–we need to vote!
Where and when do you want to start. Criticism is easy, action takes a little more effort.
RE: RE: critical issues……
So, JoAnn. What do you suggest we do about this and what are YOU willing to commit yourself to doing in order to address the problem as YOU see it.
You know the old adage, “action speaks louder than words!”
RE: Progressive Agenda
In the meantime, Senor Presidente, what do YOU propose to do to help alleviate any one of the many deleterious conditions affecting our various communities.
As soon as you are reading to engage in some DOING, just let me know.
RE: RE: Progressive Agenda
Oooh, a potential major contributor! 🙂
First of all, I’d say a serious look at (for example) the Green Party–what is needed is a multicultural/gender based organization, where the people actually run the party; where there is a commitment to soicial change and improvement of the lives of people. Of course, the contradiction between capitalism and democracy should also be reexamined. NONE of this means didley, however, without education. How many Latinos are there who are knowledgable about a multitude of topics? Without education, how can you answer any objections? How can one intelligently discuss anything–such as environmental degradation, economic policy (why raising interest rates, for example, hurts the majority at the expense of the minority), etc.
People have to actually (when at all possible) face to face–enough with the vast wasteland, TV Those Latinos who have “made it” (a relative term) need to stay in our neighborhoods, not go away to suburbia, thus leaving behind those who would benefit the most. We also need to agitate for changes in our drug policies, so our poor communities do not pay the price (because, as we all know, white people do not do drugs!). There are many more topics, but I think this is a start. Maybe others can add to this list.
Will this be easy? Nope. However, why let that stop us?
Green Party, etc.
Hey Victor:
It was good to see that somewhat out there is actually following up on this Bulletin Board. It should serve for more than just a “gripe session” without any follow up.
I agree with just about everything you said, though I did sense a touch of arrogance my intellectually gifted brother. You folks in the vanguard have to be careful about assumptions re the “intelligence” of your average Juan/Juana. Book knowledge does not intelligence make.
Anyway, this isn’t meant to be a forum for personal attacks, just thought that needed to be said.
So what is the repsonsibility that those of us with a well developed “formal” education have to our communities? Whenever I hear one of my colleagues who has “made it”, I try to (gently) make it a point to remind them that if it hadn’t been for people laying down their lives back in the 60’s and before (and continually), the doors od opportunity would not have opened even to the slight extent that they did back then. As an Ivy-league law grad, I often encountered some of my “sisters and brothers” who are more interested in assimilation, moving to the suburbs and “passing” than in contributing to the betterment of the community. But that is a personal choice.
I noticed that you did not respond to my inquiry re what YOU are ready to do (other than post e-mails to Bulletin Boards like this one) to change the situation as you see it. While I definitely agree that we need at least a viable third, fourth fifth (or actually a second, after the “republocrats”) party, I think the real, concrete social changes take place at the local, grass roots level. The web can provide the means by which to enhance the effectiveness of such efforts, or at least gwetting the word out.
By the way, where are you located. I am in NYC and am involved in the creation of a grassroots political action organization, the Campaign for a New Democracy (CND) which will gear itself to precisely the type of grass roots activity I think is the key. Housing, education, emloyment, environmental racism, the list of potential issues goes on. Another big issue area is “direct democracy” (i.e., enhancing the opportunities for folks to become directly involved in the process) and the move to include referendum, initiative and recall and another “direct democracy” tools in local, state and national political processes.
Are you interested in becoming involved in something of the sort or will you be content to be our resident philosopher, Platon? Please advise: ventura-rosa@mail.com
RE: RE: RE: Progressive Agenda
See reply under my name “Rafael Ventura-Rosa” re: Green Party.
RE: Green Party, etc.
“Vanguard?” Moi? I think not. “Intellectually arrogant?” Hmm, where have I heard that before? Because I insist on “book knowledge?” It’s a shame that’s where our culture now stands, that only “Who wants to be a Millionaire” counts as intelligence on TV. No, book knowledge isn’t all, but it IS necessary–after all, how good a lawyer would you be without “book knowledge?” All I meant by my (constant) stress on education, is that without knowing HOW things got to the way they are (history, in other words, but also economics, political science, etc.) we engage in the sin of presentism–the view that all that matters or is important is the present.
It’s always been a great source of pain and embarassment to have to go over details which most should know. That’s another topic for another day, however. We could take a page from the African-American community–throughout it’s 400 plus years in this country, education (“book knowledge”) was very important to the community. They grasped the point, that unless one can analyze/understand the world, one cannot critique it.
I’m in Denver, and spent the weekend at the Green Party convention. I’m exhausted, and you raise some interesting points, which I’ll look at during the next day or two.
P.S.–I’m more Kantian that Platonist, but that’s neither here nor there. 🙂
The election in New York
I really believe it is time for the
Puertorican community of N.Y. to effect
the results of the next election by
voting against the democratic party
our traditional party but Mrs.Clinton
should be defeated since her husband
who has the power stop the bombing in
Vieques if he wanted to,but he refuses
second the dem.party takes our votes for granted,we can prove them that we
hold the power.
RE: RE: Green Party, etc.
If your responses do not smack of intellectual arrogance, I don’t know what does. You are obviously taken with your own “intellectual superiority”. But, lrt’s not personalize things. I would like to know if anything (other than talking) is ever going to be done by all of these “psuedo-alternative” parties. It should be an interesting political year.
RE: RE: RE: Green Party, etc.
So my answers smack of “intellectual arrogance,” yet “let’s not personalize things?” Unbelievable. Here’s an attorney, someone who obviously spent 7 years gaining “book knowledge” and uses it in daily practice, yet refuses to get the simple point. If you think things are the way they are because of a divine plan or coincidence, then yes, “book knowledge” is unimportant. If, on the other hand, one insists that though “book knowledge” is not the end of life (after all, I grew up in the 70s and 80s on the streets of Williamsburg–why would I fail to grasp that point? On the other hand, few “made it” out of the ‘hood into a decent life without SOME “book knowledge”)it is an anchor.
If my responses strike anyone as “intellectually arrogant” then I apologize. That was not my intent; however, I will NOT apologize for insisting that we need to collectively get our asses out of the couch and go do some reading!!!!
RE: Latinos and the electoral process
Grassroots organizing is the only type of organizing that will have a significant impact in our communities. Whether CND can provide leadership in this is another question/issue. Because you propose a new organization, I assume that you find the organizations that already exist inadequate or bankrupt with respect to bringing out the Latino vote. Have you ever approached any organizations that have long track records in the community?
It seems that CND could just be another splinter group. How do you see the CND in relation the organizations that already exist locally, citywide, statewide and nationally.
RE: RE: RE: RE: Green Party, etc.
And once we are done with the reading, then what. When, if ever, does the doing begin? Or is this merely an intellectual exercise for you???
RE: RE: Latinos and the electoral process
CND is meant to be a non-partisan (.e., unaffiliated, non-aligned) organization which, while not ignoring the need to study and analyze in order to learn from the past, is geared toward action on a local level. Issues such as the creation of affordable housing, the improving the quality of public schools, insuring adequate healthcare, employment, job-training/retraining and other issues which have a day to day effect on people.
To say that the organization is a “splinter” is certtainly a misnomer since it has not broken off from any existing organization. It has grown out of the frustration of people, like myself, who have grown tired of bweing involved in orgnization where the primary (if not only) activity is for people to talk and intellectualize without a clear plan of ACTION. Don’t get me wrong, I am not an anti-intellectual. Quite the contrary. Study is indispensable and inseparable from action. But talk is cheap and, as cliche as it may sound, “action speaks louder than words”.
What part of the country are you in. CND is presently operating out of NYC but expects to expand nationally and to eventually have a presence in all 50 states and all U.S. territories/
colonies.
The bulk of its members and action oriented task forces will center around labor/community organizations and coalitions.
What if any organizations are you affiliated with?
RE: RE: RE: Latinos and the electoral process
I won’t say yet. How far have you gotten with the CND. Who are some of the other principals and what exactly is its agenda. Which are some of the organizations you’ve approached and which have joined you? What is CND’s position on the presidential candidates. What if any directive or message are you sending out to the people–as far as getting the vote out and supporting pro-community, pro-labor candidates? Would you please tell me more about CND?
[LaPaz] DNC2000 Pro-Vieques Coalition
The Puerto Rican Alliance of Los Angeles has formed the “DNC 2000 PRO-VIEQUES COALITION”, in order to have a strong presence at this year’s Democratic National Convention taking place in Los Angeles. We are endorsing the D2K NETWORK, which is composed of groups and individuals working to coordinate and support events and NON-VIOLENT protests during the Democratic National Convention in Los Angeles, August 14-17.
We would like to invite individuals to participate and join the “DNC 2000
Pro-Vieques Coalition” in order to:
1) DEMAND the U.S. Navy out of Vieques, Puerto Rico NOW!
2) SUPPORT the people of Vieques’ struggle to call for an immediate end to
the U.S. Navy’s occupation of Vieques;
3) JOIN the many sectors in Puerto Rico who support the struggle for peace in Vieques and an end to the military occupation;
4) MAKE clear that the Vieques problem hasn’t ended or been resolved, which
is detrimental to all of Puerto Rico and the environment;
5) BRING international attention to the military violence against the people of Vieques, Puerto Rico.
Since there are many separate issues being addressed by an array of different groups, the D2KLA Network has developed specific themes for each of the 4 days of the Convention, so that working together, a more unified/amplified voice can be heard. From that perspective D2KLA offers this framework of broad themes for each of the days for protest at the DNC.
The goal is simply to help amplify in the strongest possible way major areas
of concern and to group activities with similar themes to magnify their impact. NO THEME IS SEEN AS MORE OR LESS IMPORTANT THAN ANY OTHER. By taking action in our own behalf and acting in solidarity with others we can insure that all of our issues are highlighted and given the optimum voice.
The D2KLA framework for activities at the DNC for the week of August 14 – 17
is as follows:
Monday, Aug. 14: UNITY-Human Need Not Corporate Greed! Labor, environment, welfare rights, criminal justice, wages for housework, abortion rights, truth in media, homelessness, pure food and water,
domestic violence, access for the disabled, peace for Iraq, the embargo on
Cuba-whatever your concerns, stand together and let your voice be heard.
Tuesday, Aug. 15: EQUALITY-An Injury to One is An Injury to All. Stop the hate and save the earth! Every being on earth has a right to live free of exploitation, oppression and extinction. We will stand together and not be divided by gender,
lifestyle, ability, ethnicity, nationality, religion, age-or even species!
Wednesday, Aug. 16: JUSTICE-Stop Police Brutality, Mass Incarceration, Racial Profiling, the Drug War, and the Death Penalty! 2 Million doing time-that’s the crime! Halt the criminalization of our
communities and free all political prisoners!
Thursday, Aug. 17: PEACE-Halt Militarism, Defend Indigenous people, Immigrant and Worker Rights, and Demand Economic Justice! We will no longer tolerate the killing of innocent people all over the
world in the interest of the rich, and demand a moratorium on biological,
chemical, nuclear weapons, and all overseas military exercises! From Native
American sovereignty to global poverty, we will build international solidarity and demand economic and environmental justice as one!
As of now, the “DNC 2000 PRO-VIEQUES COALITION” will be marching on the FINAL DAY, THURSDAY, AUGUST 17TH, THE DAY OF PEACE, TO CALL FOR AN END TO VIEQUES’ MILITARY OCCUPATION AND DEMAND ECONOMIC/ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE FOR THE PEOPLE OF VIEQUES. The peaceful march and demonstrations will begin at 9:00a.m. from the People’s Convergence Center to the Staples Convention Area. We will end with a a peaceful, legal rally and march from Pershing Square to the Staples Center, where we will join a vigil during Gore’s acceptance speech. WE WOULD LIKE TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL 4 DAYS, BUT NEED TO
COORDINATE WITH INDIVIDUALS INTERESTED (due to work and other obligations).
**So far, we are conducting workshops on the following:
1) GIANT PUPPET MAKING, (e.g. puppets of Clinton/Rosello dropping bombs on Vieques);
2) DRUMMERS, CONGEROS, BONGOCEROS;
3) BANNERS AND PICKET SIGNS;
We also plan to have an evening VIEQUES EVENT/Seminar during the 4 days. (to be scheduled)
The Puerto Rican Alliance of Los Angeles invites everyone who supports the struggle of the people of Vieques
(http://www.viequeslibre.org ) to join
the “DNC 2000 PRO-VIEQUES COALITION”. We are still meeting and strategizing and would like to see if there is enough support (interest) for the Coalition to participate on other days as well. We need everyone’s help and support in preparing for these very critical days. For those who are coming from out of town, the PRA is also organizing housing and has set-up a DNC 2000 headquarters just 15 minutes from the Convention.
For more information, please contact:
Ernesto J. Vigoreaux
Puerto Rican Alliance of Los Angeles
3465 W. 8th St., 2nd Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90005
(310) 289-0316 or evigoreaux@hotmail.com
Colombian Massacres–a foreign policy issue
I think new policies towards Latin America should be part of the candidates’ platforms. I really have a problem when Latinos forego thinking about what happening in their respective countries of origin–in connection to the United States policies of developing state terrorism within so many of the countries our families come from. We need to have a consciousness of ourselves here but I also think we need to develop simultaneously a consciousness towards the foreign policies that are either getting us to or preventing us from coming to the States. Latinos have some sense of this but it’s not at all sophisticated, let alone articulated as a political issue or policy issue weighing in during an election year. I condemn the massacres of my Colombian brothers and sisters and feel it is unconscionable that the government I pay taxes to is making it possible. Damn! I’m upset and I am not nearly Colombian just pura borinqueña.
Vieques, etc.
Vieques, Puerto Rico, and other foreign policy issues such as Colombia need to be taken up by the candidates.