Honoring Dr. King
As modern Democrats we proudly align ourselves and our actions with those championed by the Reverend Dr Martin Luther King. Although he is best known for his work on Civil Rights, King also fought to strengthen labor unions, protect public education, and ensure income equality and employment throughout America. It has been over a half century since his death on April 4, 1968, yet these issues remain key Democratic priorities which are still facing political resistance from conservatives.
No matter, we will continue the fight for social justice, knowing that achieving our goals is inevitable. As King said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”
Earlier this month Representative Hakeem Jeffries gave a riveting acceptance speech, saying: “Democrats will always do right by the American people.”
We can act on Dr. King’s aspirations and Hakeem Jeffries words, by letting our legislators know how we feel.
The 2023 Legislature is now in session. Tell them to stand against political violence, fund quality education, protect clean air and water, and expand affordable housing. And while you have them on the phone, tell them to step in to save North Idaho College from the crazies who are running it into the ground. Take Action
Stop the Madness
Speaking of political violence there was news out of New Mexico about a defeated GOP candidate and election denier, who organized a plot to shoot up the homes of four Democratic officials. Fortunately, his scheme did not hurt people, just property. And thankfully law enforcement arrested this malcontent and his collaborators.
This is just another example of political rightwing extremists using violence to interfere with or threaten Democratic Officials. Other high-profile examples are the attempted kidnapping and assault of Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and the assault in San Francisco on former Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s husband Paul.
These acts of domestic terrorism are not happening in a vacuum. The right-wing echo chamber of media pundits and politicians overtly encourage this behavior with their incendiary rhetoric. For example, consider Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene. She made the following remarks last December at the New York Young Republican Club. While referring to the January 6th insurrection, she said “If Steve Bannon and I had organized that, we would have won”. She ended by saying “Not to mention, it would’ve been armed.” Although, this was an attempt at a joke, the meaning is clear, she endorses and supports the motives behind the attack.
I mention this because, Representative Taylor-Greene received an invite from the Kootenai Republicans to give a keynote address at their Lincoln Day fundraiser in February. Given her history, it is likely she will continue her pattern of inflammatory statements. Knowing her audience and given our town’s legacy of racism and violence this could be like touching a flame to a powder keg. In other words, it is obvious that the conservatives planning this event are not concerned about discouraging political violence and are unlikely to call on their followers to cease and desist.
You can let them know what you think of her planned visit by writing letters to the Coeur d’Alene Press. Tell them that speakers like Marjorie Taylor-Greene bring nothing of value to our community. Also ask them why this is their focus rather than using this address to examine public priorities like quality education, clean air and water, and affordable housing.
Stand Against Political Violence
And finally, don’t forget to attend the Hijacking Democracy Symposium at the Red Lion Hotel Templin’s on the River in Post Falls on Saturday, February 25, 2023, from 11 AM-3 PM.
Thanks for being a Democrat and have a wonderful week everyone.
