Posts tagged with "congress"

January 6th & Venezuela: The Global Threat to the Rule of Law

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On the anniversary of the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol, the nation once again confronts the fragility of its democratic institutions and the importance of the rule of law—both at home and abroad. This solemn day compels us to look beyond our borders and examine how the principles we fight to preserve domestically are reflected in our nation’s elected leaders’ conduct on the global stage. It is a moment to recognize that the health of our republic is intrinsically linked to the ethical consistency of their actions.

An Unsettling Report: The Rule of Law and American Power

A recent special report, headlined “Special Report on Venezuela: U.S. Kidnaps Maduro, Trump Says ‘We Are Going to Run’ Oil-Rich Nation,” presents a stark challenge to the American ideals of sovereignty, democracy, and international cooperation. While the domestic threat of January 6th revealed the dangers of political extremism undermining constitutional order, this report highlights the potential for unilateral executive action to subvert international law and the right of nations to self-determination. With a focus on the fabric of American culture, this is not merely a foreign policy story; it is a critical reflection of our values. What does it signal about our national character when we resort to illegal measures by kidnapping a sitting president and his wife, and openly declare intent to seize control of a sovereign, oil-rich nation?

Need to Knows

  • Extralegal Action: The U.S. government orchestrated the kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Such an action constitutes a profound breach of international law and the sovereignty of another nation, fundamentally disregarding the international system the U.S. helped build.
  • The Motive of Control: The reported statement, “We Are Going to Run” the oil-rich nation, frames the action not as a humanitarian or democratic intervention, but as a resource-driven act of regime change and control. This interpretation undermines claims of promoting democracy and reinforces long-standing global critiques of American interventionism.
  • A Precedent for Power: Actions that bypass established legal and diplomatic channels set a dangerous precedent. When the U.S. acts outside the rule of law internationally, it weakens its moral authority and empowers other nations to similarly disregard legal norms, ultimately leading to a more volatile and less secure global environment.
  • The Erosion of Principle: The decision to utilize such aggressive tactics suggests a breakdown in the deliberative and legal checks on executive power. Just as January 6th was a failure of domestic political process, this type of foreign policy action represents a failure of international diplomacy and legal adherence.

Take-Aways for American Culture

  1. Vigilance is Global and Domestic: The cautionary tale of January 6th teaches us to be perpetually vigilant against threats to democracy at home. The Venezuela incident serves as a reminder that this vigilance must extend to holding our government accountable for its actions abroad. A nation that respects the rule of law internationally is better equipped to demand adherence to it domestically.
  2. Reclaiming American Values: The core of e pluribus unum is a shared commitment to principles. An American culture that truly values democracy must reject the notion that its economic or strategic goals justify violating the sovereignty and self-determination of others. The implications of the Trump administration’s actions in Venezuela, including its hostile foreign policy agenda and posturing call for a public discourse that centers integrity and legality in all foreign engagements.
  3. The Danger of Ends Justifying the Means: When a government adopts a mindset that any means are acceptable to achieve a desired end—be it political power at home or economic control abroad—the moral foundation of the republic is compromised. For American culture to heal and thrive, it must actively and unequivocally demand adherence to the Constitution and international law, rejecting the logic of expediency.

The anniversary of January 6th is more than a day of remembrance; it is an annual audit of the American soul. The recent actions in Venezuela—the kidnapping of a sitting president and first lady and an open desire to seize national resources—are not isolated foreign policy blunders, but corrosive forces that undermine our domestic integrity and our global standing. When the Executive branch operates without regard for domestic and international law, it sends a dangerous signal that power, not principle, is the ultimate authority. That signal, in turn, weakens our ability to enforce the rule of law within our own borders.

We must recognize that the two threats are one: a disregard for established legal and constitutional order.

Congress, the time for passive observation is over. The American people and the global community demand a government that is ethically consistent. We, the People implore you to rise to the occasion and assert your constitutional authority as a vital check and balance.

  • Demand Transparency and Accountability: Immediately launch a full and public investigation into the reported extralegal actions concerning Venezuela to establish the facts and hold any and all officials accountable for violations of international and domestic law.
  • Reassert Legislative Oversight: Pass and enforce legislation that clearly limits the Executive’s ability to engage in acts of war, regime change, or major foreign operations without explicit congressional approval, thereby guaranteeing that actions taken in the name of the American people are consistent with American values.
  • Protect the Rule of Law: Affirm and codify the nation’s commitment to international law and the sovereignty of nations, sending an unequivocal message to the world that the United States rejects the doctrine of “might makes right.”

A stable and prosperous America requires a predictable and lawful world. By acting decisively now, Congress can ensure that the lessons of January 6th are truly learned, proving that our commitment to the rule of law is not merely a domestic convenience, but a universal principle. The integrity of our Republic depends on it.

The Hidden Hand: Democratic “Dark Money” and Its Cultural Ripples

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In the intricate tapestry of American politics, transparency is often touted as a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. Yet, recent revelations concerning a “dark money” group secretly funding high-profile Democratic influencers are pulling back the curtain on practices that challenge this ideal, raising crucial questions about influence, information, and the very fabric of our cultural discourse.

What is “Dark Money,” and Why Does It Matter?

“Dark money” refers to political spending by nonprofit organizations that are not required to disclose their donors. While these groups can advocate for issues, their lack of transparency means the public doesn’t know who is truly funding the messages that shape political narratives.

In this instance, the spotlight is on The Sixteen Thirty Fund, a powerful liberal “dark money” group, and its “Chorus Creator Incubator Program.” This initiative offered prominent online influencers up to $8,000 a month to disseminate Democratic messaging. The catch? Strict secrecy clauses prohibited them from disclosing their involvement or payments.

The Playbook: New Tactics in a Shifting Media Landscape

For years, Democrats have struggled to effectively engage in the digital media landscape, often relying on traditional media outlets. Republicans, in contrast, have cultivated a robust independent media infrastructure, leveraging influencers and controversy to their advantage. This “dark money” initiative appears to be the Democratic Party’s attempt to mimicking strategies long employed by the right.

However, the approach raises ethical flags:

  • Secrecy Mandates: Influencers were reportedly bound by contracts preventing disclosure of their relationship with Chorus or The Sixteen Thirty Fund. This directly contradicts the ethical principle of transparency in paid endorsements.
  • Content Control: Some contracts also mandated that influencers funnel all bookings with lawmakers through Chorus and required approval for content supporting or opposing political candidates. This raises concerns about editorial independence and genuine grassroots engagement.
  • Avoiding Disclosure: A lawyer for Chorus explicitly stated that the nonprofit structure allows them to avoid the public disclosure requirements seen in traditional political ads, meaning names wouldn’t appear on FEC reports.

Cultural Implications: Eroding Trust and Shifting Narratives

The implications of such programs extend far beyond political campaigns; they reach into the heart of American culture:

  • Erosion of Trust: When influential voices are secretly funded, it undermines public trust in the authenticity of online content and the impartiality of information. For a general audience, discerning genuine opinion from paid promotion becomes increasingly difficult.
  • Homogenization of Discourse: If a significant number of influential voices are receiving payment to push a party line, even with minor creative freedom, it risks creating a more uniform and less diverse online political discourse. This can stifle dissenting opinions and genuine debate, running counter to the “e pluribus unum” ideal.
  • The “Middleman” Problem: As some creators argued, these initiatives can create a “middleman” between independent media and political leaders, potentially centralizing control over political messaging and limiting direct access for truly independent voices.
  • Ethical Quandaries: Experts in media ethics have voiced strong concerns, noting that demanding secrecy about funding violates ethical norms. It compels influencers to choose between financial gain and journalistic integrity, highlighting a moral dilemma at the intersection of media and politics.

Moving Forward: A Call for Transparency

While the desire for political parties to effectively communicate their messages is understandable, the means by which they do so are critical. The use of “dark money” to fund online influence campaigns, shrouded in secrecy, presents a challenge to the foundational principles of transparency and informed public discourse.

This is a cautionary tale: in an increasingly digital world, understanding who is truly behind the messages, (democratic or republican) we consume is more vital than ever. The health of our diverse American culture, and indeed our democracy, depends on it. It is becoming increasingly clear that We, the People have no friends in Congress. We have elected parasites beholden to corporations and the executive class eroding the fabric of the nation and the working class. 

Sources

Lorenz, T. (2025, August 27). A Dark Money Group Is Secretly Funding High-Profile Democratic Influencers. WIRED. https://www.wired.com/story/dark-money-group-secret-funding-democrat-influencers/New York Post. (2025, August 28). ‘Dark money’ group paying pro-Democrat influencers up to $8K a month: report. https://nypost.com/2025/08/28/business/dark-money-group-paying-pro-democrat-influencers-up-to-8k-a-month-report/  

The Enduring Shadow: A History of Gerrymandering and Its Modern Threat to American Democracy

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In the vibrant tapestry of American culture, certain threads consistently challenge the ideals of fair representation and democratic principles. Among the most persistent and insidious of these is gerrymandering, a political tactic as old as the republic itself, yet one that has evolved into a sophisticated threat to the very notion of “government of the people, by the people, for the people.”

What You Need to Know About Gerrymandering

  • It’s an ancient practice: Though named in 1812, manipulating electoral boundaries predates its official term and has been a recurring issue throughout American history.
  • It’s evolving: From simple, hand-drawn distortions to advanced computer algorithms, gerrymandering has become increasingly precise and effective.
  • It’s undemocratic: Gerrymandering allows politicians to choose their voters, rather than voters choosing their politicians, undermining the principle of fair representation.
  • It disproportionately impacts communities of color: Partisan gerrymandering can be used to dilute the voting power of minority groups.
  • It’s getting worse: Recent Supreme Court rulings have limited federal judicial oversight, leading to more aggressive partisan map manipulation, as seen in the 2020 redistricting cycle.

From Salamander to Scourge: The Birth of a Term

The story of gerrymandering begins in the fledgling years of the United States, in Massachusetts, 1812. Governor Elbridge Gerry, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and later Vice President under James Madison, unwittingly lent his name to this practice. At the behest of his Democratic-Republican party, a state senate district was redrawn in Essex County, so grotesquely contorted that it was lampooned in the Boston Gazette as resembling a mythological salamander. The term “Gerry-mander” was coined, immortalizing a political maneuver designed to secure partisan advantage. Though Gerry himself found the proposal “highly disagreeable,” and even lost the next election, his party successfully retained control of the legislature thanks to this audacious redistricting.

While the “Gerry-mander” cartoon suggested the demise of the monstrous practice, the manipulation of electoral boundaries predates its naming and has persisted through American history. Early instances in 18th-century England with “rotten boroughs” and similar district drawing in early American states like Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina set the stage. However, the 1812 Massachusetts effort was undeniably “on steroids” compared to what came before, a brazen contortion that maximized partisan gain, allowing a party with less than half the vote to secure a significant majority of seats.

A Shifting Landscape: Gerrymandering Through the Centuries

The practice ebbed and flowed with political competition, intensifying when two-party systems solidified. A significant turning point came after the Civil War, when Black men won the right to vote. Southern states, aiming to consolidate white Democratic power, began drawing “long stringy districts” to concentrate Black voters into a few districts, effectively diluting their influence everywhere else. Examples like South Carolina’s 1882 “boa constrictor” district starkly illustrate this period of racial gerrymandering, designed to ensure white majorities.

The “Redistricting Revolution” of the 1960s, driven by Supreme Court rulings like Baker v. Carr that mandated roughly equal populations in districts and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, seemed to offer a promise of fairer representation. Yet, the advent of computer technology and advanced data analysis in subsequent decades ushered in a new, more precise era of gerrymandering. Map drawers, no longer limited to hand-drawn schemes, could now craft districts with “surgical precision,” utilizing techniques like “cracking” (splitting disfavored voters across multiple districts) and “packing” (cramming them into a few districts) to engineer guaranteed electoral outcomes. Districts that looked “normal” on a map could still be meticulously designed to skew heavily in favor of one party.

The Modern Threat: Texas and the Unprecedented Scale

Today, the problem of gerrymandering is not just persistent; it’s getting worse. The 2020 census redistricting cycle marked a critical juncture, particularly following the Supreme Court’s 2019 ruling in Rucho v. Common Cause, which declared partisan gerrymandering claims to be a “political question” beyond the reach of federal courts. This decision effectively opened the floodgates for unprecedented levels of partisan map manipulation. 

Recently, Texas Republicans passed new congressional maps favoring their party, creating five new Republican-leaning seats after Democrats fled the state to prevent a vote. The maps, expected to be approved, mirror redistricting battles nationwide. President Trump pushed the redrawing to safeguard a Republican House majority, while Democrats aim to win the lower chamber in 2026. The dramatic Texas vote saw Democrats return after a walkout, with the House Speaker even ordering doors locked to ensure their presence. Other states like Florida, New York, Ohio, and Missouri are considering similar changes. California is debating maps to benefit Democrats if Republican-favoring changes occur elsewhere. The new Texas maps sparked uproar over gerrymandering, legal unless racially motivated. Democrats claim the current redrawing, ahead of the 2030 census, is a racially motivated “pure power grab.” They, and civil rights groups, have threaten to sue, alleging the new maps dilute minority voting power and violates federal law. Previous 2021 maps are still being litigated over racial discrimination.

Texas stands as a potent and unprecedented example of the modern gerrymandering shift. After the 2020 census, with Republicans controlling the redistricting process, the maps drawn in Texas were among the most aggressively skewed in the nation. These maps were designed to amplify Republican power, creating districts that virtually guaranteed Republican victories, even in a state with a diverse and evolving electorate. This strategic redrawing of lines, often with a lack of transparency, prioritizes partisan gain over fair representation, leading to outcomes where politicians choose their voters, rather than voters choosing their politicians. The impact is clear: a significant tilt in the balance of power, contributing to national legislative dynamics that may not accurately reflect the overall preferences of the electorate.

A Cautionary Tale: The Future of Fair Representation

The consequences of modern gerrymandering extend beyond partisan advantage. It can suppress voter turnout, foster political polarization by creating safe, ideologically homogenous districts, and ultimately diminish public trust in democratic institutions. Moreover, the practice often disproportionately impacts communities of color, as partisan motives can be intertwined with racial considerations, leading to maps that dilute the voting power of minority groups.

While the Supreme Court has stepped back, the responsibility to safeguard fair representation now falls even more heavily on Congress and state-level reforms. Legislation like the Freedom to Vote Act aims to address these abuses, but progress remains a challenge. The history of gerrymandering is a cautionary tale, reminding us that the ideals of American democracy are not self-sustaining. They require vigilance, a commitment to equitable representation, and a continued effort to ensure that the voice of every citizen truly matters in the great American experiment.

Sara Fitzgerald (left) and Michael Martin, both with the group One Virginia, protest gerrymandering in front of the Supreme Court in March

Columbia’s Choice and the Unfinished Business of American Justice

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In the ongoing, complex tapestry of American culture, the concept of “reparations” has ignited fervent debate, revealing the deeply entrenched legacies of historical injustice. For generations, calls for reparations for the brutal institution of American slavery and its enduring aftermath – from Jim Crow to pervasive racial inequality – have been met with resistance, legal hurdles, and a prevailing national reticence. Yet, a recent development at one of America’s most prestigious academic institutions, Columbia University, has thrown the conversation back to center, offering a compelling, if unsettling, case study in selective justice. This isn’t merely an isolated incident; it’s a profound moment that compels us to examine who receives reparations and what these decisions truly signify for the pursuit of justice rooted in America’s foundational ideals.

Need to Know: Columbia’s Compromised Past and Present Priorities

Columbia University, an institution often lauded for its progressive academic environment, has a deeply troubling historical ledger that remains largely unaddressed. In its early years, known as King’s College, the university was profoundly intertwined with the slave trade. Research has revealed that at least half of its first ten presidents owned slaves. By the 1760s, slavery was so normalized that it had seeped into the curriculum, largely due to students hailing from wealthy merchant families whose fortunes were built on the backs of enslaved people. Even the operational funds for maintaining college buildings were predominantly donated by active participants in the slave trade, and historical records even show a stepson of George Washington bringing a slave with him to the university. Despite this documented history of direct and indirect benefit from slavery, Columbia has never paid reparations to Black Americans.

This stark historical reality contrasts sharply with the university’s recent actions. Bowing to pressure from the Trump Administration and facing a federal investigation, Columbia agreed to a $200 million settlement for alleged antisemitism and established a $21 million class claims fund to provide reparations to Jewish employees impacted by these claims. This decision followed a period of intense anti-war student protests on campus in April 2024, advocating for divestment from Israel, which were met with violent crackdowns by law enforcement. While anti-Zionist Jewish groups were prominent in these protests, and many anti-war advocates faced assault, the narrative quickly shifted to one of widespread antisemitism on college campuses, amplified by media outlets. The university’s response culminated in compensation for “hurting people’s feelings,” while the descendants of those upon whose forced labor the institution was built receive nothing.

Takeaways: The Selective Application of Justice

The decision by Columbia University to issue reparations for alleged antisemitism while sidestepping its profound historical ties to American slavery is not merely a financial transaction; it’s a profound statement on the selective application of justice in America. This case highlights a critical distinction: the willingness to compensate for perceived emotional or contemporary harms versus the enduring, generational, and systemic damage wrought by centuries of chattel slavery and subsequent discriminatory policies.

Reparations, as understood under international human rights law, are not ordinary public policy or a substitute for welfare programs. They are an act of justice, intended to acknowledge and repair the causes and consequences of human rights violations. The legacy of slavery in the United States extends far beyond historical texts; it actively shapes contemporary society, manifesting in staggering racial wealth gaps, land dispossession, unequal access to homeownership, healthcare disparities, educational inequities, and a disproportionately punitive criminal legal system. For instance, the median wealth for Black families remains a mere fraction of that for white families, a direct consequence of denied economic fruits of labor and systemic exclusion from market participation for centuries. Federal policies like redlining and urban renewal, implemented long after slavery’s formal end, actively cemented racial segregation and deprived Black communities of wealth-building opportunities.

Columbia’s choice to compensate for what it deems “antisemitism” – a term often weaponized to stifle dissent, as evidenced by the “Project Esther” strategy – while ignoring the foundational injustice of slavery underscores a profound moral and ethical inconsistency. It effectively prioritizes a narrow, politicized definition of harm over the deeply embedded, multigenerational trauma and economic disenfranchisement that continues to impact Black Americans.

The Cost of Inaction: The Economic Burden of Unaddressed Racism

Beyond the moral imperative, the failure to rectify the historical injustices of slavery and systemic racism carries a staggering economic price tag for the entire nation. Racism is not only morally wrong but also severely detrimental to the U.S. economy. A recent study by Citigroup, titled “Closing the Racial Inequality Gaps,” revealed that in the last 20 years, racism has cost the U.S. economy an astounding $16 trillion. This figure is not insignificant, especially when considering the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) is approximately $30.33 trillion. As Abibat Rahman-Davies, former Legislative Representative, Economic Justice, stated in her report, “It may seem that racism in our economy only affects people of color, but it costs all of us.” 

These detrimental effects are particularly stark across key sectors:

  • Housing: Housing is a primary source of intergenerational wealth, yet public, private, and federal discrimination, including policies like redlining, have historically prevented families of color from owning homes and devalued their properties. This has meant decades of missed opportunities for wealth accumulation as home values appreciated. For instance, in 2016, the Federal Reserve found the median housing wealth for Black families was $124,000, compared to $200,000 for white families. Economists estimate that $218 billion was lost in the last two decades due to discrimination in providing credit for home purchases to families of color. This economic racism isn’t just historical; it persists today, as evidenced by instances where homes owned by Black families are devalued. The Austin family’s experience, where their renovated home appraised significantly lower until staged to appear white-owned, highlights this ongoing issue.
  • Education: Due to housing discrimination and the reliance on property taxes for school funding, schools in predominantly Black communities are often under-resourced compared to those in wealthier, whiter areas. This disparity deeply affects the quality of education available to children of color, making the path toward higher education and increased income potential exceptionally difficult. The Citigroup study estimates that $90 billion to $113 billion in lifetime income is lost from discrimination in accessing higher education.
  • Tax System: The current tax system disproportionately benefits those with wealth, which is heavily concentrated in white families (the net worth of a median white household is ten times that of a median Black household). A lower tax rate on income from wealth versus wages perpetuates this racial wealth divide, and benefits like mortgage interest deductions further advantage homeowners over renters, disproportionately impacting low-income Black, Latino, and Native American households.

The adverse effects of racism are compounding, impacting not only people of color but hurting the nation’s overall economic potential. Economists at Citigroup project that by closing these racial inequality gaps, approximately $5 trillion could be added to the U.S. GDP through 2025. This makes a clear economic case for actively working to dismantle systemic racism and pursuing reparative justice.

Implications for American Culture and Society: An Unfinished Reckoning

Columbia University’s decision is a microcosm of a larger, unsettling trend in American culture: a reluctance to fully confront and repair the enduring harms of slavery and its aftermath. While Congress has passed resolutions apologizing for slavery, these have never been signed into law, leaving a federal void in acknowledgment and repair. This incident at Columbia illuminates the “fierce urgency of now” for reparative justice, not just as a historical formality, but as a crucial step towards dismantling present-day structural racism.

The broader conversation about reparations in America, as advocated by organizations like Human Rights Watch and the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ), emphasizes that effective remedies for human rights violations must include restitution, compensation, rehabilitation, satisfaction (truth-telling, apologies, memorials), and guarantees of non-repetition. These measures are not about “handouts” but about addressing specific, documented harms that continue to impact Black communities in every facet of life – from health outcomes to educational opportunities and interactions with the criminal justice system. 

Columbia’s choice, however, reveals a national discomfort with true accountability for historical wrongs. It suggests a preference for addressing issues that are more politically palatable or less financially demanding, rather than confronting the deep-seated systemic racism that continues to undermine the very ideals of justice and equality America purports to uphold. The ongoing struggle for S. 40, a bill that would establish a commission to study and develop reparation proposals for African Americans, highlights this national reluctance.

Ultimately, Columbia University’s decision serves as a powerful, if painful, reminder that the American reckoning with its past is far from complete. Until institutions and the nation as a whole are willing to acknowledge and meaningfully address the deepest wounds of history, the promise of justice for all Americans will remain tragically unfulfilled.

House Democrats Clash Over “Premature” Trump Impeachment Vote

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House Democrats are in a state of disarray after a contentious vote on impeaching President Trump for his recent strikes on Iran. The private fury among many Democrats highlights a deep divide within the party regarding the timing and necessity of impeachment proceedings.

Need to Know:

  • The Vote: 128 Democrats sided with House Republicans to block Rep. Al Green’s (D-Texas) attempt to force a vote on impeaching President Trump. Only 79 House Democrats, primarily progressives, supported Green’s motion.
  • The Cause: Rep. Green sought to impeach Trump for ordering strikes on nuclear facilities in Iran without congressional authorization, arguing it usurped Congress’s power to declare war.
  • Leadership’s Stance: House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) and House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) both voted against the resolution, indicating a broader reluctance among party leadership.
  • Internal Anger: Many House Democrats expressed significant anger and frustration, calling Green’s move “completely unserious and selfish” and “unhelpful.” They argue it forces them into a difficult position between grassroots activists and a more moderate electorate.
  • Merit Concerns: Several lawmakers also questioned the legal and constitutional merits of Green’s impeachment article, noting the “fiercely contested” debate over constitutional war powers.

Take-Aways:

  • Democratic Division: The vote underscores the ongoing internal struggle within the Democratic Party regarding impeachment, particularly when it comes to balancing progressive calls for action with broader political strategy.
  • Strategic vs. Conscience: The debate highlights the tension between those who prioritize political expediency and unity, and those who feel a moral imperative to act, regardless of the immediate political consequences.
  • Congressional War Powers: The incident brings renewed attention to the long-standing debate over the President’s authority to conduct military action without explicit congressional approval.
  • Looking Ahead: This vote is likely to intensify discussions within the Democratic party about how to best approach the Trump administration and its actions, especially in foreign policy.

Implication for American Culture:

This episode reflects a deepening polarization within American politics and culture. The stark division within the Democratic Party, mirroring the broader partisan divide, showcases a struggle over fundamental principles of governance and the role of checks and balances. The ease with which some representatives voted for impeachment, citing constituent calls, while others decried the move as premature and weak, points to a highly fragmented public discourse where immediate political gratification and deeply held convictions often clash. This ongoing tension surrounding presidential power, especially concerning military action, will likely continue to be a significant point of contention in American political and cultural life, shaping future elections and the very definition of governmental authority.

OTD: George Washington Carver’s Groundbreaking Testimony Before Congress

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History is filled with moments that shift the course of a nation, and on this day in 1921, one such moment occurred when George Washington Carver, a brilliant agricultural scientist and educator, testified before Congress. This event was not only a pivotal point in Carver’s life but also a significant stride in American culture and society.

Need to Know: The Facts

  • In 1921, George Washington Carver became one of the first Black experts to testify before Congress.
  • Born enslaved, Carver overcame immense adversity, becoming a distinguished scientist and educator.
  • He was invited to testify by white peanut farmers seeking support for a tariff on imported peanuts.
  • Carver’s testimony detailed the numerous uses of peanuts, captivating lawmakers.
  • His testimony played a role in the passage of the Fordney-McCumber Tariff of 1922.

Key Takeaways:

  • Overcoming Adversity: Carver’s journey from enslavement to a leading scientist is a testament to his resilience and intellect. His story is an inspiration to anyone facing hardship.
  • Breaking Barriers: Carver’s appearance before Congress shattered racial barriers and paved the way for greater representation of Black experts in government and other influential arenas.
  • The Power of Knowledge: His testimony highlighted the importance of scientific knowledge and its potential to influence policy and drive economic change.
  • Innovation and Creativity: Carver’s research on the diverse uses of peanuts (and other crops) showcased his innovative spirit and dedication to finding practical solutions for agricultural challenges.

Impact on American Culture and Society:

    • Challenging Racial Stereotypes: Carver’s accomplishments and public presence challenged prevalent racial stereotypes and contributed to a gradual shift in perceptions of Black individuals in America.
    • Promoting Racial Harmony: His work with the Commission on Interracial Cooperation showcased his commitment to bridging racial divides and fostering understanding.

 

  • Inspiring Future Generations: Carver’s story continues to inspire scientists, educators, and advocates for social justice.
  • Recognition and Remembrance: The establishment of the George Washington Carver Monument, the first national park honoring a Black American, signifies his lasting impact and contribution to American history.

George Washington Carver’s testimony before Congress was more than a policy discussion; it was a symbol of progress, a celebration of intellect, and a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for racial equality in America. It is a story that deserves to be remembered and shared for generations to come.

Celebrating Mom’s as a Call to Action

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This Mother’s Day CODEPINK is going to Congress to demand an end to the genocide in Gaza and a free Palestine.

“If you google the history of Mother’s Day, the internet will tell you that Mother’s Day began in 1908 when Anna Jarvis decided to honor her mother. But “Mothers’ Day”—with the apostrophe not in the singular spot, but in the plural—actually started in the 1870s, when the sheer enormity of the death caused by the Civil War and the Franco-Prussian War convinced writer and reformer Julia Ward Howe that women must take control of politics from the men who had permitted such carnage. Mothers’ Day was not designed to encourage people to be nice to their mothers. It was part of women’s effort to gain power to change society,” wrote Heather Cox Richardson in her piece titled, Letters from an American. 

The Conception of Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a holiday in the United States that celebrates mothers and motherhood. It is observed on the second Sunday of May each year.

The idea of a Mother’s Day originated in the United States in the early 20th century. In 1908, Anna Jarvis, a Philadelphia woman, began a campaign to establish a national Mother’s Day. She was inspired by her own mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis, who had been a peace activist during the Civil War.

Mother’s Day – Founded by Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia. First officially observed in 1908, it honored motherhood and family life at a time of rising feminist activism. An early supporter was John Wanamaker, whose store stood opposite. Mother’s Day was given federal recognition in 1914. (Historical marker located at S. Juniper and Market Sts. Philadelphia PA – Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission 1998)

Jarvis’s campaign gained support from a number of women’s groups and civic organizations. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a joint resolution of Congress designating the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day.

Mother’s Day quickly became a popular holiday in the United States. It is a time for families to honor their mothers and show their appreciation for all that they do. Traditional Mother’s Day activities include giving gifts, cards, and flowers, as well as spending time together as a family.

Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church, the International Mother’s Day Shrine. Grafton, West Virginia

Mother’s Day is also a time to reflect on the role of mothers in society. Mothers are the primary caregivers for children in most families, and they play a vital role in shaping their children’s lives. Mothers also often work outside the home, and they face many challenges in balancing their work and family responsibilities.

Mother’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of mothers and to recognize the importance of their role in society.

the con men games

Con Man Games: How Kevin McCarthy And George Santos Play In The Peoples House

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BY JEANETTE LENOIR

 

Today, Americans are being served a con man, #AsbestosSantos despite his blatant lies to steal an election in New York. Liar-elect George Santos, (If that’s truly his name) is slated to be seated as a bona-fide Member of Congress representing the 3rd Congressional District in New York, despite his blatant criminal acts and un-American behavior, including alleged money laundering and tampering with election spending and reporting. And anyone who thinks his half-assed apology during his Fox News interview where he claims his lies are “debatable” despite clear evidence of his incredible world-record lies, is remotely sincere… is more interested in stoking the fire that keep Americans divided on party lines.

And Kevin McCarthy, who only wants enough votes to secure power and the Speaker title in The Peoples House, has remained dead silent on the egregiousness of this dangerous scam and con man because he wants his ill-gotten vote for Speaker. Regardless of party affiliation, the American people should be outraged at this deliberate burning of our flag by Kevin McCarthy and the Republican Party. The old adage, united we stand, divided we fall, has never been clearer and more significant than what we are witnessing in our political arena today, and in the aftermath of Trumpism.

America is flaring up like a severe case of arthritis and some of our elected leaders only care about personal gains and power. We remain a country divided despite the manifestations of #45 that was the January 6th attack on the nation’s capital. A country divided on basic truths and principles rooted in a shared humanity is a country on the edge of a cliff. History is cyclical. And seating Liar-elect George Santos is no different than what the settlers did to the wild buffaloes to defeat Native Americans. The Republican Party is not working for We, The People. They’re working for themselves to construct an America that only serves the rich, corporations and special interest groups that only want to feed from the trough and the wealth generated by working class Americans and the immigrants they loath. Folks, we’re in big trouble. And seating George Santos despite the fact that he STOLE an election, amounts to awarding a con man for doing a fantastic job conning the people who elected him. And if that’s what Republicans call democracy, imagine what they consider humanity.

In the meantime, Kevin McCarthy is so egregious with his silence and complicity on George Santos, the man has already moved into the Speaker’s Chamber despite the challenge he’s facing within his own party, including not having the votes necessary to become the next Speaker of the House. Imagine that. One can’t be shameful if they’re shameless. And that’s a dangerous precedent that produced the scum con man, George Santos.

The cycle continues.

The 117th Congress Reflects Our Changing America

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BY JEANETTE LENOIR

“The 117th Congress will be the most diverse group of lawmakers ever to chart the nation’s course when it meets in January after women and nonwhite candidates made gains in the November elections,” states a recent report in The Hill.

This shift in our nation’s armor is a testament to the strong will and perseverance of a people that refuse to live on their knees so rich white men can continue to reap the lion share of our nation’s wealth and supremacy. Black folks, after building the most powerful nation in the world via brutal slave labor, fighting its wars without adequate thanks, inventing products that forever changed how people live, all while subjected to living on the dark side of the moon for what feels like eternity, are changing the face of Congress and other governing institutions across the country. And this fierce determination of grace is not only the pilot light of humanity, but the embodiment of E Pluribus Unum. We’re finally seeing the face of America and it’s a tapestry full of colors, cultures and religion.

Out of many, one nation of diverse people is finally emerging from behind the iron curtain staunchly guarded by a dying breed of shameless dividers and greedy power-hungry hoarders like Mitch McConnell. No doubt, history will reward him and his ilk accordingly, and rightfully so. Just like Confederate statues tumbling down, so will their legacy of white supremacy, greed and total disregard for the path of righteousness that stands right before them. McConnell represents the shame of American greed that refuses to budge, despite the harsh truth and evidence of his impact on his own state of Kentucky, and the entire nation struggling through a deadly pandemic. His impact on America, unique in its search for identity, will never be forgotten and should never be forgiven. As families lineup in food lines across the country, McConnell is fighting to maintain his grip on power rather than cooperate with fellow lawmakers to provide relief for desperate Americans. A crucial piece of legislation to provide Americans with much needed Covid-19 relief, as well as fund our military, H.R.6395 – National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (NDAA) is facing a veto threat from Trump and pushback from McConnell. Why, you ask? Because they object to the level of protection for taxpayers during a pandemic and renaming U.S. military bases honoring Confederate commanders. President Trump and Senate Majority Leader McConnell believe the nation is overreacting to a pandemic and want to protect traitors who killed their own countrymen to preserve slavery. They say the forces that surround power are the real power. And that power belongs to McConnell. Folks, evil has a face, and he’s the epitome of Sheev Palpatine seething with gritted teeth, “everything that has transpired has done so according to my design.”

Although the road to self-determination has been long and bloody, the struggle is finally bearing some edible fruit. And the makeup of the 117th Congress tells us we’re on the right path to creating the world Dr. King spoke of during his speech at the 1963 March on Washington. We’re rising up to live out the true meaning of America’s creed. The fight to break the chains that have bonded Black people since the dawn of European conquest for the riches of Africa are slowly coming off. One revolution after another, bit by bit, struggle by struggle, heartache upon heartache, injustice after injustice, our spirit, protected and guided by the dreams of our ancestors, refuses to buckle, bend or retreat. From the many battles to maintain Africa for African people, slavery and the African Diaspora, the Abolitionist movement, the Civil War, Women’s Suffrage, Industrialization, the Jim Crow era to the Civil Rights movement, Black people have led the way for mankind’s ultimate freedom, even from self. And Black people in pursuit of salvation have galvanized other ethnic groups to do the same by rising up to face a common enemy: greed and imperialism birthed by Europeans and their designated murderer of humanity, Christopher Columbus who paved the way that ushered in slavery.

The whistling winds of change blowing from plantation to freedom in America is slowly being reflected in the hub of our collective power: Congress. Even so, there is no moment for rest, as there is no rest for the weary. The work to deliberately right the wrongs is just beginning. And not just to clean up Trump’s 4-year destruction of political, societal and international norms, but to rebuild an unjust system that oppresses Black and brown people.

And what does that look like? It looks like flipping the Senate by way of voting Democrat in Georgia. Despite a historic win to seat Joe Biden as the 46th U.S. President, staunch efforts are being made to muzzle we, the people who spoke loud and clear with our votes. Bishop Talbert Swan said it perfectly on Twitter, “17 white, Republican, attorney generals are supporting the Texas attorney general’s attempt to reverse the results of the 2020 election by suing PA, MI, GA, and WI because Black people in Philly, Detroit, Milwaukee and Atlanta voted against Trump is white supremacy on steroids.” This is the movement Trump dragged in like the dead rodent brought in the house by the cat. Bob Marley once said, evil never takes a day off and neither should good, making the work ahead crucial as this country heads into an unknown future as leader of the free world in the midst of a deadly pandemic.

The justice being ushered in also looks like, Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris, General Lloyd Austin selected to head the Department of Defense, Congresswoman Martha L. Fudge as U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and Linda Thomas-Greenfield, nominee for U.S. Ambassador to the United Nation. And it looks like the feisty Congresswoman Katie Porter who isn’t afraid to fight her elders in Congress for the sake of her countrymen. There can be no peace without justice. And it’s not a personal pursuit of pillory against white people, rather war against a system structured to oppress Black people in every sector of our society. This unifying movement in America, is a demand to right blatant wrongs and finally end the brutality inflicted upon Black people and other POC by Europeans and their descendants. This isn’t new. Many wars have been fought, from Africa to the shores of America and everywhere in between, to push back their land and wealth grab, and inhumanity.

Our work also looks like honesty about the history of the world, curriculum change that teaches the truth about man’s history, cultural theft and genocide, discoveries and conquests from ancient to modern times, deliberate upward mobility initiatives to finally allow Black people to hold their rightful prosperous place in America, police reform and equality; socially and economically. Similar to whites receiving reparations following the end of slavery, so too must African Americans benefit from an eternity of brutality, lynching’s and injustice in a country of their making. Imagine 500 years of being forced to live on your knees for the benefit of one group that continues to profit from these unjust circumstances. We’re not there yet but I’m grateful we’re on our way to the mountain top Dr. King envisioned for all Americans. The changing face and make-up of Congress isn’t about one group of people losing, but rather all of us winning.