By Frances Rice
“Why Is the Black Vote in the Democrats’ Pocket?” That is the title of an article by Juliette Ochieng which provides an analysis of why Republicans are having very little success attracting more blacks into the Republican Party. The article can be found on the Internet at: http://pajamasmedia.com/blog/why-is-the-black-vote-in-the-democratic-pocket/
Ochieng opines that blacks have been trained by Democrats to expect political parties to provide quid pro quo. In other words, while Republicans want to help blacks pursue happiness (teach blacks how to fish so they can feed themselves for a lifetime), Democrats want to provide happiness to blacks (give them a fish so they can eat for a day).
The Democratic Party’s strategy of using handouts to garner the black votes, while working to keep blacks mired in poverty, was described as “plantation politics” by President Barack Obama on page 147 of his book “Dreams From My Father”. As a result of the politics of poverty practiced by Democrats, including Obama, the firm belief is now deeply rooted in the black community that the government must "do something” for blacks. Democrats have been running black communities for the past 40+ years and turned those communities into economic and social wastelands with their failed socialist policies. Yet, Democrats have the gall to blame Republicans for the deplorable conditions caused by the Democrats. Democrats also accuse Republicans of doing nothing to help poor blacks – a charge that resonates with victim mongers.
However, since the beginning of the so-called War on Poverty, over $ 9 trillion has been spent on poverty programs. According to the Washington Post, in one year alone under President George W. Bush, over $500 billion was spent on over 80 poverty-related programs, with little movement in the poverty needle. The problem with black poverty is not money – and it is not the Republican Party.
Notably, only 25% of blacks are poor and living in those dilapidated neighborhoods run by Democrats. The remaining 75% of blacks are prosperous and living in the larger society.
Shamefully, Democrats consistently fight efforts of Republicans to help poor blacks living in Democrat-controlled neighborhoods get out of poverty. Most egregious is the fight by Democrats to keep Republicans from providing school choice opportunity scholarships so that black parents can get their children out of failing schools. The money belongs to the people, not the buildings controlled by the teachers’ unions that are supporters of the Democratic Party.
Further, Democrats, aided by liberal journalists and teachers, hide information about black poverty that is embarrassing to Democrats. For instance, after the Civil War, blacks left the plantations run by Democrats with little more than the ragged clothes on their backs. Today, the combined wealth of blacks is over $1.4 trillion – up from the $644 billion in 2005 – a staggering figure that is equivalent to the GNP of the world's 16th largest economy. This is an incredible, historic achievement.
Whenever Republicans attempt to point out that it is the Democrats who are keeping those inner-city blacks mired in poverty, Democrats resort to playing the race card, falsely accusing the Republican Party of being the party of the racists who denied blacks civil rights during and prior to the 1960’s .
The blatant use of race-baiting by Democrats to win the black vote is why any strategy to attract blacks back into the Republican Party must include not only a focus on economic and social issues, but also information about the true history of civil rights.
The NBRA Civil Rights Newsletter that is posted on the Internet at: www.NBRA.info provides information that helps set the civil rights record straight. Referenced in the newsletter is an article published by the Claremont Institute entitled "The Myth of the Racist Republicans" that can be found on the Internet at: http://www.claremont.org/publications/crb/id.928/article_detail.asp
Included in the newsletter are additional references such as "Unfounded Loyalty" by Rev. Wayne Perryman, "Wrong on Race" by Bruce Bartlett and "A Short History of Reconstruction" by Dr. Eric Foner, a renowned liberal historian whose biography can be found on the Internet at: http://www.ericfoner.com/
Perryman wrote his book after conducting years of research and then sued the Democratic Party, demanding an apology for that party’s 150-year history of racism based on the Democratic Party's “States Rights” claims. The Democrats admitted their racist past under oath in court, but refused to apologize because they know that they can take the black vote for granted.
It is frustrating to observe how most black Americans continue to support the Democratic Party, in spite of that party’s reprehensible history of racism and socialism that have caused so much harm to blacks. As author Michael Scheuer stated, the Democratic Party is the party of the four S's: slavery, secession, segregation and now socialism.
At one time in our history, almost all blacks were Republicans because, since its inception in 1854 as the anti-slavery party, the Republican Party has always been the party of freedom and equality for blacks. Studies show that today, still, most blacks share the values of the Republican Party. Those same studies demonstrate that most blacks are very conservative and do not share the values of the Democratic Party that supports same-sex marriage, partial-birth abortion and banning God from the public square.
In order to keep blacks from voting their values or for Republicans, every election cycle, Democrats preach hatred against the Republican Party and get blacks to cast a protest vote against Republicans, and not a vote for Democrats.
The message that Democrats gives to poor blacks is despicable. If you remain poor, uneducated and vote for Democrats, we will celebrate your victimhood. If you get a good education, get a good job and vote for Republicans, we will denigrate you as "acting white”, a "sellout”, an "Uncle Tom”, a "House Negro”, a "House N-word", a "Lawn Jockey”, and worse.
Democrats talk tolerance, but practice intolerance, castigating any black person as a “traitor” to his or her race who does not toe the liberal agenda line.
When black Democrat Juan Williams wrote his book entitled "Enough: The Phony Leaders, Dead-end Movements and Culture of Failure That Are Undermining Black America" that exposed the deplorable conditions in black communities, Williams was denounced on national TV by another black Democrat as a "Happy Negro".
Brazenly, on the left-wing Internet website called "The News Blog," Democrats posted a doctored photograph of then Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele (now chairman of the RNC) when he was running for a Senate seat, depicting Steele as a "Simple Sambo" with a blackened minstrel-style face, nappy hair and big, think red lips. The cartoon caption read: “Simple Sambo wants to move to the big house”. This contemptible racist stereotype is the same one Democrats used to demean black men during the era of slavery and segregation.
In addition to other outrageous racist images of Dr. Condoleezza Rice produced by several Democrats, cartoonist Jeff Danziger depicted Dr. Rice as an ignorant, barefoot "mammy", reminiscent of the stereotyped black woman in the movie “Gone with the Wind” about the slave era black woman who remarked: "I don't know nothin' 'bout birthin' no babies". This is the type of racist stereotype Democrats used to demean black women during the era of slavery and segregation.
Democrats now love Gen. Colin Powell, but spewed out racist attacks on Powell before he endorsed Obama and embraced the liberal agenda of higher taxes and a bigger government to provide poverty-producing handouts to blacks. A video was shot by WKRN Video Journalist Beau Fleenor at Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee that shows Al Sharpton demeaning Gen. Powell and Dr. Rice, when Sharpton was asked to give his opinions about whether Powell and Rice were “House Negroes". That video can be found on the Internet at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdVjrBY5-F0 An article that appeared in a Portland, Oregon paper was one of many exposing how hardly a ripple of protest was made by black Democrats when Harry Belafonte publicly denounced Gen. Powell as a "House Negro". It can be found on the Internet at: http://portland.indymedia.org/en/2002/10/27103.shtml
The denigration by Democrats of blacks who identify with the Republican Party makes it nearly impossible for the Republican Party to attract blacks into the party, and for black Republicans to get elected to office in black communities. Yet, Democrats have the temerity to point a finger of blame at the Republican Party for there being so few blacks in the Republican Party and for there being so few black Republican elected officials. Notably, the few black Republicans who get elected to public office do so in largely white Republican districts.
Those black Americans living in the Democrat-controlled neighborhoods who want to get out of poverty should seize control over their own destiny and stop voting monolithically for Democrats who use “plantation politics” to buy their votes while keeping blacks in poverty.
Democrats will forever maintain a ”lock” on the black vote, for as long as black Americans – including prosperous blacks who sympathize with poor blacks – continue believing the myth that the Republican Party is a racist party and clinging to the false notion that poor blacks are “victims” who need government handouts to survive.
Frances Rice is a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, a lawyer and chairman of the National Black Republican Association. She can be contacted at: www.NBRA.Info
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
This is Not a Conservative Movement
Posted on Governor Sarah Palin's Website July 14, 2009
http://www.palinforamerica.com/
During the 2008 election Republican candidates touted their conservative credentials. Often, it seemed that one only had to use the phrase “conservative” to pass muster for the base of the Republican Party. By its definition, conservatism is traditionalism, it is the status quo, it is the antithesis of change. The mistake that many Republicans make is that they have relegated themselves to being so-called Conservatives.
Is America’s political memory so short that Republican values would be considered “conservative?” Sarah Palin stands for energy independence, limited government, free enterprise, and individual liberty. Are these “conservative” values? Let us not forget that in their day and time our founding fathers were radicals fighting those who wanted to maintain the political status-quo; subjugation to the king. Their sense of individual rights and liberty is historically progressive when you compare alternative political systems, monarchies, empires, totalitarian states.
Republicans have forgotten their progressive roots and Democrats have cornered the market on their so-called progressive solutions for America. The Democratic Party now nearly completely in control of the Federal government, is in fact regressive, conservative, and pushing the nation back to its colonial roots; subjugation to the king, who now sits in Washington D.C. It is the Liberals who are out of the mainstream of America, it is they who want to turn over individual liberty to Federal overseers. What have we become as citizens when we allow a virtual monarch to sit in the city named after one of our great liberators?
Will we be free citizens or colonists toiling for tribute to send to Washington? It is not conservative to advocate for personal liberty or to empower the individual to achieve their own American dream. It is not conservative to advocate for strong national defense. It is not conservative to keep government limited in order to protect the rights and freedoms of the individual. It is not conservative to allow free enterprise, innovation, and creativity to drive the national economy.
These are not conservative principles, these are uniquely American principles. I urge Democrats, Republicans, and Independents who believe in these principles to stop calling themselves “conservatives” as if that label separates them from the mainstream of American society. If you agree with Sarah Palin, and advocate these principles then you’re not a conservative, you’re an American. This is not a conservative movement, this is an American movement, and one of the most progressive movements in human history. It is our duty as Americans to stand up to the disconnected political elite in Washington D.C., both Republicans and Democrats, and prevent the regression of our nation of free citizens to subjugated colonists.
I hope that Sarah Palin will be the voice of this movement. Not the conservative movement, but the American movement to restore our freedoms and liberties.
http://www.palinforamerica.com/
During the 2008 election Republican candidates touted their conservative credentials. Often, it seemed that one only had to use the phrase “conservative” to pass muster for the base of the Republican Party. By its definition, conservatism is traditionalism, it is the status quo, it is the antithesis of change. The mistake that many Republicans make is that they have relegated themselves to being so-called Conservatives.
Is America’s political memory so short that Republican values would be considered “conservative?” Sarah Palin stands for energy independence, limited government, free enterprise, and individual liberty. Are these “conservative” values? Let us not forget that in their day and time our founding fathers were radicals fighting those who wanted to maintain the political status-quo; subjugation to the king. Their sense of individual rights and liberty is historically progressive when you compare alternative political systems, monarchies, empires, totalitarian states.
Republicans have forgotten their progressive roots and Democrats have cornered the market on their so-called progressive solutions for America. The Democratic Party now nearly completely in control of the Federal government, is in fact regressive, conservative, and pushing the nation back to its colonial roots; subjugation to the king, who now sits in Washington D.C. It is the Liberals who are out of the mainstream of America, it is they who want to turn over individual liberty to Federal overseers. What have we become as citizens when we allow a virtual monarch to sit in the city named after one of our great liberators?
Will we be free citizens or colonists toiling for tribute to send to Washington? It is not conservative to advocate for personal liberty or to empower the individual to achieve their own American dream. It is not conservative to advocate for strong national defense. It is not conservative to keep government limited in order to protect the rights and freedoms of the individual. It is not conservative to allow free enterprise, innovation, and creativity to drive the national economy.
These are not conservative principles, these are uniquely American principles. I urge Democrats, Republicans, and Independents who believe in these principles to stop calling themselves “conservatives” as if that label separates them from the mainstream of American society. If you agree with Sarah Palin, and advocate these principles then you’re not a conservative, you’re an American. This is not a conservative movement, this is an American movement, and one of the most progressive movements in human history. It is our duty as Americans to stand up to the disconnected political elite in Washington D.C., both Republicans and Democrats, and prevent the regression of our nation of free citizens to subjugated colonists.
I hope that Sarah Palin will be the voice of this movement. Not the conservative movement, but the American movement to restore our freedoms and liberties.
RNC Chairman Michael Steele Delivers Speech at NAACP 100th Annual Convention
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 14, 2009
CONTACT: Press Office 202-863-8614
NEW YORK CITY, NY – Remarks of Chairman Michael Steele, NAACP 100th Annual Convention, July 14, 2009.
Thank you for that warm welcome. I would like to thank the NAACP board of directors and Chairman Julian Bond for having me here to speak with you today. Also, President Jealous, Vice Chairman Roslyn M. Brock, and Assistant Treasurer Jesse Turner. Jr.
President Jealous and Vice Chairman Brock, I thank you for your willingness to seek out advocates in all circles. We are all interested in the educational, economic, political and social wealth of our community. I thank the board for their passion and dedication to serving the disadvantaged among us, for breaking down barriers and standing as leaders.
As a proud member of the Prince George's county chapter of the NAACP, I am honored to be here to celebrate 100 years.
The NAACP was born to fight for freedom, liberty, opportunity and fairness. Its founders were a group of brave visionaries from varying backgrounds, including black and white Republican men and women. Perhaps the most prominent African-American Republican of the group was James Weldon Johnson, the co-author of “Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing.” Such a proud institution with an incredibly rich legacy.
I am proud to be here as the first African-American chairman of the Republican National Committee and on behalf of the RNC I bring you the warmest of greetings and congratulations!
I’ve been looking forward to this day for some time. It is for me, a particular honor to bring greetings in this 100th year. I spent some time looking at previous remarks by Republicans before this body and I was struck by the litany of phrases that republicans often cut and paste into a speech to this organization. “Party of Lincoln” four or five times ... Reminders that Teddy Roosevelt was a Republican, and he invited Booker T. Washington to the White House … and the civil rights act was passed by a Republican congress over democrat filibusters … oh, and one of my favorites, Bull Connor was a democrat.
I decided instead, that today I would depart from “the complete Republican’s guide to speaking to African-Americans.”
Let me begin with something I read the other day – a look at the statistical averages of black babies versus whites:“The black baby born in America today, regardless of the section of the nation in which he is born, has about one-half as much chance of completing high school as a white baby born in the same place on the same day . . . One-third as much chance of completing college, one-third as much chance of becoming a professional man . . . Twice as much chance of becoming unemployed, a life expectancy which is 7 years shorter, and the prospect of earning only half as much.”
That is not a pretty picture. But here’s the really heart wrenching point: those words were spoken by President John F. Kennedy in 1963.
Nearly all of what we think of as “the civil rights era” has taken place since JFK gave that speech. And in that time, a lot of progress has been made in both the political and the cultural arenas. Many of you in this room have been the authors of that progress and many others of you have witnessed it.
Indeed, not far from the steps on which I was inaugurated the first African-American Lt. Governor of Maryland in 2002, Kunta Kinte was sold into slavery over 150 years ago. Moreover, not far from the very steps on which Barack Obama was inaugurated the nation’s first African-American president, black men and women could not drink from the same water fountain as whites.
But our standing on those steps was not just a testament to progress, but also a challenge to the idea that we have completed the journey.
As far as we’ve come since 1963, the amount of progress that has been made, while impressive, leaves us empty in the face of incarceration rates, unemployment rates, drop-out rates, aids infection rates, and the general rate of poverty for African-Americans.
For 46 years of these 100 years, we have carried a lot of water for others. And yet, the long odds faced by our children have changed very little. So it is time we start to carry that water for ourselves; or we will continue to fail our community, our children, and our ability to build legacy.
At the dawning of this century, most of the problems facing black America are rooted in diminished access to quality education and fewer and fewer opportunities to either work a job or own a business. On these points, a one-party agenda often fails to get the job done.
My friends, educational and economic upward mobility are the root source of empowerment, ownership and opportunity. You undermine those and you guarantee preservation of the status quo. But you and I know our legacy has never been about status quo — remember Attucks, Tubman, Douglass, Booker t., Dubois, Malcolm, Parks, King and so many others including those who founded this venerable organization.
We are the post-civil rights generation of African-Americans and for us the battle for civil rights in the latter half of the twentieth century has become a struggle for economic and educational opportunity at the dawning of this century.
Thurgood Marshall once said, “None of us has gotten where we are solely by pulling ourselves up from our bootstraps. We got here because somebody bent down and helped us.”
My purpose for coming here today, is simply to tell you face to face, that you are not alone in that struggle. The Republican Party, which has shared an inextricable link to the African-American community, has a way forward.
The Republican Party is prepared to bend down every day to help; but, we will do so with a different perspective—a 21st century perspective that pursues policies and advances principles that turns the hope of economic liberty and empowerment into action. True freedom is ill-served by diminishing educational choices, choking off entrepreneurial spirit, and empowering government more than the people.
As Chairman of the Republican National Committee, I recognize the efforts it took to get a seat at the lunch counter, but I also know what it will take for this and future generations to own the diner. So, I have come here today not only to bring greetings, but also to renew our relationship with the NAACP and the African-American community.
And I do this with a sense of purpose and not cliché because the GOP and NAACP have very often missed real opportunities to communicate and engage each other. Indeed, for the GOP and the NAACP “outreach” should mean more than a speech here and a pat on the back there. Genuine outreach must establish a relationship on common ground and build a partnership that will benefit all concerned.
So to that end, I have already reoriented the RNC away from “doing outreach” and towards building coalitions instead — moving beyond its comfort zone to create a relationship with diverse communities and constituencies. My goal: to advance freedom in the African-American community.
As the African-American middle class emerges and grows, the Republican Party wants to be a partner who works with you to put in place the tools necessary to sustain that growth and to bring out of poverty those so often left behind. I thank you for the opportunity to explain how my party is committed to continuing in that cause. And I thank you for your kind attention here today.
Certainly my visit here today does not represent some miraculous breakthrough in GOP-NAACP relations. This is the first baby step in many more baby steps to come. After all, we all know that old loyalties and attitudes die hard. But the question is, if the GOP is willing to take those steps, will the NAACP be willing to do the same?
As you start your second century, now is an opportune time for both the NAACP and Republicans to take hold of their political destinies and step together into a new partnership.
Think about it this way: if a black man can become chairman of the Republican National Committee, then anything is possible.
Congratulations; and may God continue his blessings upon your work.
###
Republican National Committee 310 First Street, SE Washington, D.C. 20003p: 202.863.8500 f: 202.863.8820 e: info@gop.com
Paid for by the Republican National Committee.310 First Street, SE - Washington, D.C. 20003 - (202) 863-8500www.gop.comNot authorized by any candidate or candidate's committeeUnsubscribeCopyright 2009 Republican National Committee
CONTACT: Press Office 202-863-8614
NEW YORK CITY, NY – Remarks of Chairman Michael Steele, NAACP 100th Annual Convention, July 14, 2009.
Thank you for that warm welcome. I would like to thank the NAACP board of directors and Chairman Julian Bond for having me here to speak with you today. Also, President Jealous, Vice Chairman Roslyn M. Brock, and Assistant Treasurer Jesse Turner. Jr.
President Jealous and Vice Chairman Brock, I thank you for your willingness to seek out advocates in all circles. We are all interested in the educational, economic, political and social wealth of our community. I thank the board for their passion and dedication to serving the disadvantaged among us, for breaking down barriers and standing as leaders.
As a proud member of the Prince George's county chapter of the NAACP, I am honored to be here to celebrate 100 years.
The NAACP was born to fight for freedom, liberty, opportunity and fairness. Its founders were a group of brave visionaries from varying backgrounds, including black and white Republican men and women. Perhaps the most prominent African-American Republican of the group was James Weldon Johnson, the co-author of “Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing.” Such a proud institution with an incredibly rich legacy.
I am proud to be here as the first African-American chairman of the Republican National Committee and on behalf of the RNC I bring you the warmest of greetings and congratulations!
I’ve been looking forward to this day for some time. It is for me, a particular honor to bring greetings in this 100th year. I spent some time looking at previous remarks by Republicans before this body and I was struck by the litany of phrases that republicans often cut and paste into a speech to this organization. “Party of Lincoln” four or five times ... Reminders that Teddy Roosevelt was a Republican, and he invited Booker T. Washington to the White House … and the civil rights act was passed by a Republican congress over democrat filibusters … oh, and one of my favorites, Bull Connor was a democrat.
I decided instead, that today I would depart from “the complete Republican’s guide to speaking to African-Americans.”
Let me begin with something I read the other day – a look at the statistical averages of black babies versus whites:“The black baby born in America today, regardless of the section of the nation in which he is born, has about one-half as much chance of completing high school as a white baby born in the same place on the same day . . . One-third as much chance of completing college, one-third as much chance of becoming a professional man . . . Twice as much chance of becoming unemployed, a life expectancy which is 7 years shorter, and the prospect of earning only half as much.”
That is not a pretty picture. But here’s the really heart wrenching point: those words were spoken by President John F. Kennedy in 1963.
Nearly all of what we think of as “the civil rights era” has taken place since JFK gave that speech. And in that time, a lot of progress has been made in both the political and the cultural arenas. Many of you in this room have been the authors of that progress and many others of you have witnessed it.
Indeed, not far from the steps on which I was inaugurated the first African-American Lt. Governor of Maryland in 2002, Kunta Kinte was sold into slavery over 150 years ago. Moreover, not far from the very steps on which Barack Obama was inaugurated the nation’s first African-American president, black men and women could not drink from the same water fountain as whites.
But our standing on those steps was not just a testament to progress, but also a challenge to the idea that we have completed the journey.
As far as we’ve come since 1963, the amount of progress that has been made, while impressive, leaves us empty in the face of incarceration rates, unemployment rates, drop-out rates, aids infection rates, and the general rate of poverty for African-Americans.
For 46 years of these 100 years, we have carried a lot of water for others. And yet, the long odds faced by our children have changed very little. So it is time we start to carry that water for ourselves; or we will continue to fail our community, our children, and our ability to build legacy.
At the dawning of this century, most of the problems facing black America are rooted in diminished access to quality education and fewer and fewer opportunities to either work a job or own a business. On these points, a one-party agenda often fails to get the job done.
My friends, educational and economic upward mobility are the root source of empowerment, ownership and opportunity. You undermine those and you guarantee preservation of the status quo. But you and I know our legacy has never been about status quo — remember Attucks, Tubman, Douglass, Booker t., Dubois, Malcolm, Parks, King and so many others including those who founded this venerable organization.
We are the post-civil rights generation of African-Americans and for us the battle for civil rights in the latter half of the twentieth century has become a struggle for economic and educational opportunity at the dawning of this century.
Thurgood Marshall once said, “None of us has gotten where we are solely by pulling ourselves up from our bootstraps. We got here because somebody bent down and helped us.”
My purpose for coming here today, is simply to tell you face to face, that you are not alone in that struggle. The Republican Party, which has shared an inextricable link to the African-American community, has a way forward.
The Republican Party is prepared to bend down every day to help; but, we will do so with a different perspective—a 21st century perspective that pursues policies and advances principles that turns the hope of economic liberty and empowerment into action. True freedom is ill-served by diminishing educational choices, choking off entrepreneurial spirit, and empowering government more than the people.
As Chairman of the Republican National Committee, I recognize the efforts it took to get a seat at the lunch counter, but I also know what it will take for this and future generations to own the diner. So, I have come here today not only to bring greetings, but also to renew our relationship with the NAACP and the African-American community.
And I do this with a sense of purpose and not cliché because the GOP and NAACP have very often missed real opportunities to communicate and engage each other. Indeed, for the GOP and the NAACP “outreach” should mean more than a speech here and a pat on the back there. Genuine outreach must establish a relationship on common ground and build a partnership that will benefit all concerned.
So to that end, I have already reoriented the RNC away from “doing outreach” and towards building coalitions instead — moving beyond its comfort zone to create a relationship with diverse communities and constituencies. My goal: to advance freedom in the African-American community.
As the African-American middle class emerges and grows, the Republican Party wants to be a partner who works with you to put in place the tools necessary to sustain that growth and to bring out of poverty those so often left behind. I thank you for the opportunity to explain how my party is committed to continuing in that cause. And I thank you for your kind attention here today.
Certainly my visit here today does not represent some miraculous breakthrough in GOP-NAACP relations. This is the first baby step in many more baby steps to come. After all, we all know that old loyalties and attitudes die hard. But the question is, if the GOP is willing to take those steps, will the NAACP be willing to do the same?
As you start your second century, now is an opportune time for both the NAACP and Republicans to take hold of their political destinies and step together into a new partnership.
Think about it this way: if a black man can become chairman of the Republican National Committee, then anything is possible.
Congratulations; and may God continue his blessings upon your work.
###
Republican National Committee 310 First Street, SE Washington, D.C. 20003p: 202.863.8500 f: 202.863.8820 e: info@gop.com
Paid for by the Republican National Committee.310 First Street, SE - Washington, D.C. 20003 - (202) 863-8500www.gop.comNot authorized by any candidate or candidate's committeeUnsubscribeCopyright 2009 Republican National Committee
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Who Are The Real Benefactors?
- Detroit, MI (1st on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor since 1961
- Buffalo, NY (2nd on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor since 1954
- Cincinnati, OH (3rd on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor since 1984
- Cleveland, OH (4th on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor since 1989
- Miami, FL (5th on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor ever
- St. Louis, MO (6th on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor since 1949
- El Paso, TX (7th on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor ever
- Milwaukee, WI (8th on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor since 1908
- Philadelphia, PA (9th on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor since 1952
- Newark, NJ (10th on the poverty rate list); no Republican mayor since 1907
Monday, July 13, 2009
Appreciating Other Starts with Me
By Timothy F. Johnson
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend NCDPI Raising the Achievement and Closing the Gap Section- Promoting Cultural Responsiveness in Public Education follow-up meeting. Let me start off by saying I truly appreciate the willingness of the staff to discuss this issue in an environment which does not always appear to want to admit there are numerous challenges, like these, facing North Carolina public schools.
As a community leader, I believe the biggest challenge facing many of us is admitting we have a number of preconceived ideas based on race, ethnicity, gender, disabilities, religious affiliation and even sexual orientation. And while many would like to say they don’t see color for example, I don’t think those same individuals are as quick to say they don’t see gender.
As we move into the 21st century and have an increasing need to meet the needs of the “New Millennial Generation,” it is imperative that educators teach differently, think more globally and interactive with students and each other in more creative ways. Today, like never before, our children need educators who are open to new and innovative ideas which include what makes us different from one another. To this end, the conversation about race, ethnicity or one’s culturally different upbringing and background, for example, should be embraced and encouraged not avoided and discouraged.
I believe where we go wrong and how we start over begins with the individual. If we learn how to share ourselves with others, admit our insecurities and even identify our misunderstandings, we provide the opportunity for our children to engage one another, establish enriching relationships and have others celebrate our rich diversity.
What I thought was so beneficial at the training was the opportunity for participants to discuss their individual pressures felt day after day in their respective school systems. Be it either as a black man or Hispanic woman, their challenges and uniqueness must be appreciated by fellow educators and there must be every effort allow for children to see this acknowledgement and acceptance. If the courageous conversations are going to be effective, they must begin with the individual.
In this instance, our biggest obstacle to gain a better appreciation is looking back at you in the mirror. Now that you know where to start, what are you going to do about it?
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend NCDPI Raising the Achievement and Closing the Gap Section- Promoting Cultural Responsiveness in Public Education follow-up meeting. Let me start off by saying I truly appreciate the willingness of the staff to discuss this issue in an environment which does not always appear to want to admit there are numerous challenges, like these, facing North Carolina public schools.
As a community leader, I believe the biggest challenge facing many of us is admitting we have a number of preconceived ideas based on race, ethnicity, gender, disabilities, religious affiliation and even sexual orientation. And while many would like to say they don’t see color for example, I don’t think those same individuals are as quick to say they don’t see gender.
As we move into the 21st century and have an increasing need to meet the needs of the “New Millennial Generation,” it is imperative that educators teach differently, think more globally and interactive with students and each other in more creative ways. Today, like never before, our children need educators who are open to new and innovative ideas which include what makes us different from one another. To this end, the conversation about race, ethnicity or one’s culturally different upbringing and background, for example, should be embraced and encouraged not avoided and discouraged.
I believe where we go wrong and how we start over begins with the individual. If we learn how to share ourselves with others, admit our insecurities and even identify our misunderstandings, we provide the opportunity for our children to engage one another, establish enriching relationships and have others celebrate our rich diversity.
What I thought was so beneficial at the training was the opportunity for participants to discuss their individual pressures felt day after day in their respective school systems. Be it either as a black man or Hispanic woman, their challenges and uniqueness must be appreciated by fellow educators and there must be every effort allow for children to see this acknowledgement and acceptance. If the courageous conversations are going to be effective, they must begin with the individual.
In this instance, our biggest obstacle to gain a better appreciation is looking back at you in the mirror. Now that you know where to start, what are you going to do about it?
Did You Think They Would Give It Up Easily?
By Timothy F. Johnson
Over the past three months, I have seen the rapid growth of Republican social networks and a great deal of conversations taking place around the country. Young and old, new and seasoned Republicans have become engaged on sites such as Facebook, MySpace, Ning and a host of other social networks. Even more astonishing is the number of people who are writing about their individual challenges around the country. From my friend Akindele in Michigan, to Jamal and the Hip Hop Republicans in Washington DC, and even myself in North Carolina, it is apparent the “Old Guards” are seeing the writing on the wall.
For far too long they have held the party hostage through intimidation, limited access to party activities and a disregard for inclusion. The “Old Guards” have enjoyed the power, prestige and positions without being challenge. At the same time, they have publically said they want to bring more people into the party, increase youth involvement and create an atmosphere that uses “We” versus “Me.”
Immediately after last year’s election, the pundits and the rest of the “Old Guards” admitted we have to do something different. But what was different about last year from any other year? A person of color was elected to the presidency. Oh, that wasn’t supposed to happen was it? While there are many who say they rejoice in the election of the current president, you and I know that there are a number of other individuals who didn’t believe it was going to happen last year or anytime in their lifetime. As a matter of fact, they were more prepared for Hillary.
So, what does this have to do with the present “negative and resistant to change” environment many of us are dealing with today? The “Old Guards” are dealing with a backlash like never before.
Long-standing tactics that limit who gets to sit at the table and speak to the media are being dismantled. Young and old, new and seasoned (who get it) are redefining the Republican Party without waiting for Michael Steele, or state and local party officials to do it for them. Local citizens, trained and untrained, are taking the bull by the horns and saying enough is enough. No longer are we willing to wait for those in power to work out their deals with the other side and then tell us how we are supposed to act.
No longer are we willing to sit in our cubicles and let them manipulate us, to tell us how to think, when to speak and what to say. Today, like never before, the ground is swelling with enthusiastic people who are disgusted by what we are leaving behind for our children and grandchildren to deal with. And the old guards are finding themselves not only on the outside, but being blamed from within for the demise of the party, its shrinking base and the betrayal of our core principles.
It is not the lifelong politicians or party operatives that are calling them out, but new, aggressive, mad as hell “Joe the plumber” citizens. These are young professionals, stay at home parents, and urban conservatives to name a few. They are Black, White, Hispanic, Asian and a multitude of other groups who care deeply about this country and their communities.
You see, my friends, the grassroots efforts to rebuild our party, to reaffirm our beliefs and promote our core principles has begun to lift itself up on its own instead of waiting for a great messiah. After reviewing our core party principles this morning, listed below, I am more confident than ever that we are taking our party back, re-establishing who serves who, standing up and speaking out.
So, as you are going through your own challenges in your respective communities, know that you are not alone. There are many of us in the struggle with you. Know that you can always tap into the vast online social networks of concerned citizens who are experiencing what you are experiencing. Let’s learn from each other and strengthen our party from within. Know that you are child of God: strong, determined and destined for success. Don’t let the name callers, the self righteous, the self absorbed and especially the “Old Guards” deter you from your mission.
Republican Party Fundamental Principles:
· We believe that the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person’s dignity, freedom, ability and responsibility must be honored.
· We believe in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, sex, age or disability.
· We believe in free enterprise and that encouraging individual initiative will continue to bring this nation opportunity, economic growth and prosperity.
· We believe government must practice fiscal responsibility and allow individuals to keep more of the money they earn.
· We believe the proper role of government is to provide for the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations and that the best government is that which governs least.
· We believe the most effective, responsible and responsive government is government closest to the people.
· We believe America must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new and innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times.
· We believe in American values and that we should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom and human rights throughout the world.
· We believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.
Over the past three months, I have seen the rapid growth of Republican social networks and a great deal of conversations taking place around the country. Young and old, new and seasoned Republicans have become engaged on sites such as Facebook, MySpace, Ning and a host of other social networks. Even more astonishing is the number of people who are writing about their individual challenges around the country. From my friend Akindele in Michigan, to Jamal and the Hip Hop Republicans in Washington DC, and even myself in North Carolina, it is apparent the “Old Guards” are seeing the writing on the wall.
For far too long they have held the party hostage through intimidation, limited access to party activities and a disregard for inclusion. The “Old Guards” have enjoyed the power, prestige and positions without being challenge. At the same time, they have publically said they want to bring more people into the party, increase youth involvement and create an atmosphere that uses “We” versus “Me.”
Immediately after last year’s election, the pundits and the rest of the “Old Guards” admitted we have to do something different. But what was different about last year from any other year? A person of color was elected to the presidency. Oh, that wasn’t supposed to happen was it? While there are many who say they rejoice in the election of the current president, you and I know that there are a number of other individuals who didn’t believe it was going to happen last year or anytime in their lifetime. As a matter of fact, they were more prepared for Hillary.
So, what does this have to do with the present “negative and resistant to change” environment many of us are dealing with today? The “Old Guards” are dealing with a backlash like never before.
Long-standing tactics that limit who gets to sit at the table and speak to the media are being dismantled. Young and old, new and seasoned (who get it) are redefining the Republican Party without waiting for Michael Steele, or state and local party officials to do it for them. Local citizens, trained and untrained, are taking the bull by the horns and saying enough is enough. No longer are we willing to wait for those in power to work out their deals with the other side and then tell us how we are supposed to act.
No longer are we willing to sit in our cubicles and let them manipulate us, to tell us how to think, when to speak and what to say. Today, like never before, the ground is swelling with enthusiastic people who are disgusted by what we are leaving behind for our children and grandchildren to deal with. And the old guards are finding themselves not only on the outside, but being blamed from within for the demise of the party, its shrinking base and the betrayal of our core principles.
It is not the lifelong politicians or party operatives that are calling them out, but new, aggressive, mad as hell “Joe the plumber” citizens. These are young professionals, stay at home parents, and urban conservatives to name a few. They are Black, White, Hispanic, Asian and a multitude of other groups who care deeply about this country and their communities.
You see, my friends, the grassroots efforts to rebuild our party, to reaffirm our beliefs and promote our core principles has begun to lift itself up on its own instead of waiting for a great messiah. After reviewing our core party principles this morning, listed below, I am more confident than ever that we are taking our party back, re-establishing who serves who, standing up and speaking out.
So, as you are going through your own challenges in your respective communities, know that you are not alone. There are many of us in the struggle with you. Know that you can always tap into the vast online social networks of concerned citizens who are experiencing what you are experiencing. Let’s learn from each other and strengthen our party from within. Know that you are child of God: strong, determined and destined for success. Don’t let the name callers, the self righteous, the self absorbed and especially the “Old Guards” deter you from your mission.
Republican Party Fundamental Principles:
· We believe that the strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person’s dignity, freedom, ability and responsibility must be honored.
· We believe in equal rights, equal justice and equal opportunity for all, regardless of race, creed, sex, age or disability.
· We believe in free enterprise and that encouraging individual initiative will continue to bring this nation opportunity, economic growth and prosperity.
· We believe government must practice fiscal responsibility and allow individuals to keep more of the money they earn.
· We believe the proper role of government is to provide for the people only those critical functions that cannot be performed by individuals or private organizations and that the best government is that which governs least.
· We believe the most effective, responsible and responsive government is government closest to the people.
· We believe America must retain the principles that have made us strong while developing new and innovative ideas to meet the challenges of changing times.
· We believe in American values and that we should preserve our national strength and pride while working to extend peace, freedom and human rights throughout the world.
· We believe the Republican Party is the best vehicle for translating these ideals into positive and successful principles of government.
Becoming the Party of YES
Dear Friends:
What will it take to become the Party of Yes. Here are just a few of my suggestions:
1) The party elections are over. Now is the time to unify our efforts. We can and have to do this.
2) Remember to forgive others as you have been forgiven. We must do this for it is written.
3) Support each other in ways never done before. We will only be as strong as the weakest link.
4) Embrace each other's uniqueness. If there are two of the same in the room, one of us is not
needed.
5) Remember our children and grandchildren are watching us. Lead by Example
6) We become the transparent organization we demand of government. Our creditability is at stake
7) Identify, recruit and support those we ask to run for office. They are our present and future.
8) Don't limit your vision based on past experiences. The world is changing too fast for that.
9) Spend more time offering and working on the solutions. We already know the problems.
Becoming the Party of YES, requires the above and much more. Let us decide individually, we will commit to embracing, accepting and promoting this across the state.
YES, we are proud to call ourselves Republicans because we offer something better for all citizens not just a select few.
YES, we believe our country is better off when we embrace our American values fully and without an apology.
YES, we have a proud history built on principles that has withstood the test of time.
YES, we know there are brighter days ahead and want nothing less than the best.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I am asking you today to think about tomorrow instead of overly
romancing about yesterday. The past is gone and tomorrow is still unknown. Together, we can be successful for the foreseeable future. Let us not continue to spend precious time reminiscing about the past. Our future is too important! Transparency in government starts with us.
Becoming the party of YES starts with each one of us and from the inside out.
What will it take to become the Party of Yes. Here are just a few of my suggestions:
1) The party elections are over. Now is the time to unify our efforts. We can and have to do this.
2) Remember to forgive others as you have been forgiven. We must do this for it is written.
3) Support each other in ways never done before. We will only be as strong as the weakest link.
4) Embrace each other's uniqueness. If there are two of the same in the room, one of us is not
needed.
5) Remember our children and grandchildren are watching us. Lead by Example
6) We become the transparent organization we demand of government. Our creditability is at stake
7) Identify, recruit and support those we ask to run for office. They are our present and future.
8) Don't limit your vision based on past experiences. The world is changing too fast for that.
9) Spend more time offering and working on the solutions. We already know the problems.
Becoming the Party of YES, requires the above and much more. Let us decide individually, we will commit to embracing, accepting and promoting this across the state.
YES, we are proud to call ourselves Republicans because we offer something better for all citizens not just a select few.
YES, we believe our country is better off when we embrace our American values fully and without an apology.
YES, we have a proud history built on principles that has withstood the test of time.
YES, we know there are brighter days ahead and want nothing less than the best.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I am asking you today to think about tomorrow instead of overly
romancing about yesterday. The past is gone and tomorrow is still unknown. Together, we can be successful for the foreseeable future. Let us not continue to spend precious time reminiscing about the past. Our future is too important! Transparency in government starts with us.
Becoming the party of YES starts with each one of us and from the inside out.
Blacks Rethink Democratic Party
Dear Friends,
I don't know if you have noticed or even care, but during the past few months there has been an enormous amount of racist statements mentioned in the media directed at Black Americans. Some of them directed at Black Democrats and others at Black Republicans. None of these comments are acceptable nor will they be tolerated.
Perhaps this isn't important to some of you and others would like to just restrict these nasty and imappropriate comments and insensitive actions to a small group of individuals. However, I cannot in good conscious act as if I am immune to the comments or believe the individuals making these racially insensitive statements are going to change without anyone holding them accountable.
Therefore, I am choosing to re-publish an article written by Barbara Howard in May of this year. I would encourage all of my readers to read it and share this article and others you may research and find online with your friend.
I recently posted on Facebook " A Party divided against itself cannot win." I hope many of you will take this statement serious. The Republican Party is my party and I am not going any place. For those who believe the party began in 1964 or in 1980, you are saddenly mistaken. The party was founded in 1854 as an Anti-Slavery Party, period.
Those who seek to perpetual the negative and racist stereotypes of the party are no longer needed, wanted or have a place in this party. Either change your ways or find a new home to poison your so call America. The one you represent does not look like the one I was willing to die for. You are no longer welcome here and the Blacks are coming home to stay!
By Barbara Howard
Wednesday, May 27, 2009 8:16 AM
For over a decade now, many minds — both great and small — have pondered over what would make a reasonable black person join the Republican Party.
Especially since it is the Democratic Party that has spawned almost 9,600 black elected officials since 1970, according to a study published by David A. Bositis of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies.
The Democratic Party has revised history to show that Democrats, and not Republicans, have been in the forefront of civil rights for blacks over the years.
So who in their right mind would want to join a party with the reputation of being racist?
For years now, the racist label has been attached to white Republicans without any supporting evidence. Yet the charge has gone mostly unanswered. Few have publicly addressed the unearned condemnation, so generations of black folk live and die without ever knowing the truth.
There is an African proverb that says, “Until the lions have their historians, tales of the hunt will always glorify the hunter”.
I remember wondering why those brave men and women who were in the middle of the struggle with Dr. King, failed to disclose that it was the very party they now pay homage to that promoted slavery, lynching and killing hundreds of thousands of slaves.
It is the same party that created the segregationist Jim Crow Laws, beating and killing numerous civil rights workers who fought against those laws and for their dignity and freedom in a nonviolent revolution.
Why are they silent today when even the most astute black person thinks it was the FBI under a Republican administration instead of Democrat J. Edgar Hoover under Democratic Attorney General Robert Kennedy during the Democratic administration of John F. Kennedy that tapped Dr. King’s phones and had him (and them) under constant surveillance, defining them as communists?
A black minister once said to me that he hated the Republican Party because it had never done anything for black folk during his lifetime of over 50 years. Why would he think that?
Because the Democratic PR machine tells him so and because those civil rights heroes remain mute when blacks attribute such initiatives as affirmative action to Democrats instead of to Republicans.
They are not told that black Republican pioneer Dr. Arthur Fletcher is known as the father of affirmative action, serving as secretary of labor under President Richard Nixon and heading the U.S. Civil Rights Commission under President George H.W. Bush.
While 95 percent of blacks will vote for any Democratic candidate for president (or for any other office for that matter), they have no problem hurling demeaning insults at blacks who vote for Republicans, even when the Republican is black.
For over four decades, blacks have flocked to the Democratic Party while the Republican Party has seemingly been missing in action. So how does the party regain its rightful place as the champion of blacks' civil rights, particularly when civil rights leaders have failed to set the record straight?
Contrary to popular belief, the majority of black voters are primarily Christian and conservative, even though they vote for liberal candidates. Seventy percent of them voted against gay marriage in California during the 2008 presidential campaign.
Once they get past their emotional attachment to the Democratic Party, they usually admit that they are conservative in their views. Sometimes they even express feelings of betrayal when they discover the truth about which political party was really in the forefront of civil rights as opposed to the one which only claims to have been.
Even in the face of daily attacks on the Republican Party by Democrats, particularly during the Bush presidency, some blacks have quietly become Republicans in spite of an obvious lack of recruitment strategy by the Republican National Committee.
There are some of us who vote our conscience and values regardless of pressure from family and friends to vote on their emotions.
Being black and Republican can be a lonely road to travel. Hateful insults come from associates and friends alike — even from family. One stands to lose friends and sometimes prestige, reputation, and even economic opportunities.
The Republican Party should not only recruit more blacks to the party, it should protect those who find themselves on the front lines every day. The recruitment strategy must differ, however, from what has been used to date.
I’ve been a political consultant for over 20 years, half as a Democratic strategist, where I learned that “by any means necessary” sometimes meant just that.
The Republican Party must recognize black voters as the assets they are and invest party resources into retaining the loyalty of those of us who are still here, while employing those techniques that will prove to be as successful in increasing our numbers as when George Bush ran his second term.
But there are changes that have to be made to the play book.
Being black and Republican is no more an oxymoron than being black and a patriot. As we commemorate Memorial Day 2009, we know this to be true. We are proud to call America our home.
Our fathers and forefathers and mothers gave their lives for this country, not to mention our sons and daughters who are still protecting our flag.
We also know that as long as 95 percent of us are romantically involved with the same party responsible for the tragic deaths of thousands of men, women, and children and the emotional enslavement of their future generations, particularly in the age of our first black president, the village will continue to raise their progeny in poverty, ignorance, and crime.
We don’t have the luxury of allowing black Republicans to be a dying breed. The future of our community and our country depend on it.
The Ashanti believe that “one falsehood spoils a thousand truths.” We have lived the lie way too long. We must now have the courage to speak truth to power. Or the Democrats will be in control of our community for another 40 years.
Well, that is unless somebody is finally tired of the ghettos.
Barbara Howard is trade and travel goodwill ambassador to Kenya and president of Barbara Howard & Associates, Inc.
© 2009 Newsmax. All rights reserved.
I don't know if you have noticed or even care, but during the past few months there has been an enormous amount of racist statements mentioned in the media directed at Black Americans. Some of them directed at Black Democrats and others at Black Republicans. None of these comments are acceptable nor will they be tolerated.
Perhaps this isn't important to some of you and others would like to just restrict these nasty and imappropriate comments and insensitive actions to a small group of individuals. However, I cannot in good conscious act as if I am immune to the comments or believe the individuals making these racially insensitive statements are going to change without anyone holding them accountable.
Therefore, I am choosing to re-publish an article written by Barbara Howard in May of this year. I would encourage all of my readers to read it and share this article and others you may research and find online with your friend.
I recently posted on Facebook " A Party divided against itself cannot win." I hope many of you will take this statement serious. The Republican Party is my party and I am not going any place. For those who believe the party began in 1964 or in 1980, you are saddenly mistaken. The party was founded in 1854 as an Anti-Slavery Party, period.
Those who seek to perpetual the negative and racist stereotypes of the party are no longer needed, wanted or have a place in this party. Either change your ways or find a new home to poison your so call America. The one you represent does not look like the one I was willing to die for. You are no longer welcome here and the Blacks are coming home to stay!
By Barbara Howard
Wednesday, May 27, 2009 8:16 AM
For over a decade now, many minds — both great and small — have pondered over what would make a reasonable black person join the Republican Party.
Especially since it is the Democratic Party that has spawned almost 9,600 black elected officials since 1970, according to a study published by David A. Bositis of the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies.
The Democratic Party has revised history to show that Democrats, and not Republicans, have been in the forefront of civil rights for blacks over the years.
So who in their right mind would want to join a party with the reputation of being racist?
For years now, the racist label has been attached to white Republicans without any supporting evidence. Yet the charge has gone mostly unanswered. Few have publicly addressed the unearned condemnation, so generations of black folk live and die without ever knowing the truth.
There is an African proverb that says, “Until the lions have their historians, tales of the hunt will always glorify the hunter”.
I remember wondering why those brave men and women who were in the middle of the struggle with Dr. King, failed to disclose that it was the very party they now pay homage to that promoted slavery, lynching and killing hundreds of thousands of slaves.
It is the same party that created the segregationist Jim Crow Laws, beating and killing numerous civil rights workers who fought against those laws and for their dignity and freedom in a nonviolent revolution.
Why are they silent today when even the most astute black person thinks it was the FBI under a Republican administration instead of Democrat J. Edgar Hoover under Democratic Attorney General Robert Kennedy during the Democratic administration of John F. Kennedy that tapped Dr. King’s phones and had him (and them) under constant surveillance, defining them as communists?
A black minister once said to me that he hated the Republican Party because it had never done anything for black folk during his lifetime of over 50 years. Why would he think that?
Because the Democratic PR machine tells him so and because those civil rights heroes remain mute when blacks attribute such initiatives as affirmative action to Democrats instead of to Republicans.
They are not told that black Republican pioneer Dr. Arthur Fletcher is known as the father of affirmative action, serving as secretary of labor under President Richard Nixon and heading the U.S. Civil Rights Commission under President George H.W. Bush.
While 95 percent of blacks will vote for any Democratic candidate for president (or for any other office for that matter), they have no problem hurling demeaning insults at blacks who vote for Republicans, even when the Republican is black.
For over four decades, blacks have flocked to the Democratic Party while the Republican Party has seemingly been missing in action. So how does the party regain its rightful place as the champion of blacks' civil rights, particularly when civil rights leaders have failed to set the record straight?
Contrary to popular belief, the majority of black voters are primarily Christian and conservative, even though they vote for liberal candidates. Seventy percent of them voted against gay marriage in California during the 2008 presidential campaign.
Once they get past their emotional attachment to the Democratic Party, they usually admit that they are conservative in their views. Sometimes they even express feelings of betrayal when they discover the truth about which political party was really in the forefront of civil rights as opposed to the one which only claims to have been.
Even in the face of daily attacks on the Republican Party by Democrats, particularly during the Bush presidency, some blacks have quietly become Republicans in spite of an obvious lack of recruitment strategy by the Republican National Committee.
There are some of us who vote our conscience and values regardless of pressure from family and friends to vote on their emotions.
Being black and Republican can be a lonely road to travel. Hateful insults come from associates and friends alike — even from family. One stands to lose friends and sometimes prestige, reputation, and even economic opportunities.
The Republican Party should not only recruit more blacks to the party, it should protect those who find themselves on the front lines every day. The recruitment strategy must differ, however, from what has been used to date.
I’ve been a political consultant for over 20 years, half as a Democratic strategist, where I learned that “by any means necessary” sometimes meant just that.
The Republican Party must recognize black voters as the assets they are and invest party resources into retaining the loyalty of those of us who are still here, while employing those techniques that will prove to be as successful in increasing our numbers as when George Bush ran his second term.
But there are changes that have to be made to the play book.
Being black and Republican is no more an oxymoron than being black and a patriot. As we commemorate Memorial Day 2009, we know this to be true. We are proud to call America our home.
Our fathers and forefathers and mothers gave their lives for this country, not to mention our sons and daughters who are still protecting our flag.
We also know that as long as 95 percent of us are romantically involved with the same party responsible for the tragic deaths of thousands of men, women, and children and the emotional enslavement of their future generations, particularly in the age of our first black president, the village will continue to raise their progeny in poverty, ignorance, and crime.
We don’t have the luxury of allowing black Republicans to be a dying breed. The future of our community and our country depend on it.
The Ashanti believe that “one falsehood spoils a thousand truths.” We have lived the lie way too long. We must now have the courage to speak truth to power. Or the Democrats will be in control of our community for another 40 years.
Well, that is unless somebody is finally tired of the ghettos.
Barbara Howard is trade and travel goodwill ambassador to Kenya and president of Barbara Howard & Associates, Inc.
© 2009 Newsmax. All rights reserved.
Monday, July 6, 2009
July 4, 2009: The Revolution to Restore the Republic Commences
Dear North Carolinians,
This past Saturday, I had the opportunity to attend TEA Parties in Gaston and Mecklenburg counties. I want to thank all of those individuals who took the time to organize these events and the numerous other parties across the country.
If you didn't attend a TEA party, you miss a wonderful chance to meet with people who are passionate about saving America, ensuring the freedom of all and protecting the future for our youth. You also missed my announcing the Revolution to Restore the Republic begins today!
Ladies and gentleman, we don't have time to fight amoung ourselves when so much is happening to destroy our country, take away our individuals rights and freedon and lead our country down a path that will take generations to recover from. We don't have any more time to romanticize about this thing call Change or Hope.
In just over five months, we have send our national debt increase to well over $11.4 BILLION! That is debt our great-great children will be paying off. We have heard our President re-define what our national was founded on and dismiss the fundamental principles which have led to our success.
These points, among others, are the very reason I call all of you to become a part of teh Revolution to Restore the Republic.
Our nation is out of balance and headed inthe wrong direction. Each one of us has an inherit responsibility to speak up and speak out. We need everyone to be heard not just seen. We need you to be engaged not disengaged. Unlike the revolutions of the past, this time we will not require any guns and it will be televised.
So, you are asking what are the specific actions you can take now? Well, I have outline a few suggestions:
1) Register your family, friends, co-workers, neighbors and strangers to vote. We need to assist every eligible voter with this. We should assume nothing and ensure everything.
2) We need you to hold rallies, protest, write, e-mail, twitter, facebook, fax and voice your displeasure at the decisions many of our elected officials are making from the city and township to the national level. They were voted in to represent us. If they are not meeting your expectations, tell them. If they are meeting your expectactions, tell them. We, the People means We, the People.
3) I need you to reach out to those individuals you have traditionally assumed were not interested in hearing your political point of view. Take some time to talk with youth and others from different cultural and ethnic groups. Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. They deserve a chance to share their perspective in a safe and secure environment. This will be the only way "real change" will occur.
4) Most importantly, don't forget how you feel today. If you are like millions of Americans across this country, you are very upset at the way our government is running today. You don't have to wait until 2010 to let Governor Bev Perdue and the rest of the NC General Assembly know how you feel. This fall there will be elections across the state of North Carolina. When you go vote, remember who the individuals are that are voting against your freedom in support of this thing they keep call Change and Hope, Cap and Trade and National Health Care.
We need RESULTS! I don't know about you but they Capped Us. Now, it is time we Traded Them.
The Revolution to Restore the Republic has begun. We you be joining us?
Tim
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