Pushing Back

As a nation that is becoming more diverse each day, it is becoming apparent that some people are having a difficult time accepting the new reality.  The 2010 Census Report as well as the future growth and projections of the US population are revealing what others have known all along…change is here.  However, the greatest challenge for America in the 21^st Century is how to handle this major paradigm shift?          

Along with this change, there have been increases in the number of power moves or grabs within many local, state and national legislative bodies.  These activities include shifts in polices, modifying rules, redistricting, reviewing residency requirements, evaluating civic liberties, restricting voting opportunities, and using filibusters to block needed reform. One needs a score card, just to keep up.   

It is amazing how many critical decisions have been made with little to no input from affected communities and residents.  They just want residents to go along with a plan; decisions have been made; and you need to just get over it.  It will be “OK” in the end…you will see.   They do not like opposition or push back and try to avoid it at all cost.  In fact, a lot of people don’t take criticism of any kind too well, especially in open forums, town halls and special hearings. 

On the other hand, residents who do participate in the process and voice their support or concerns about an issue are inspiring.  Standing up for what is right is difficult for the average person and especially when the stakes are high.  However, in order for change to happen, someone must be willing to do the right thing and speak their conscience regardless of the unpleasant consequences that may sometimes follow.  The risk of going into the spot light; the chance to share one’s views is at times one of the missing components in our great democracy. 

President Abraham Lincoln once stated…“the probability that we may fail in the struggle ought not to deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just.”   My mother told me once that… “if you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.” And perhaps that is where we are today… too many people are in the kitchen… “Who don’t like who coming to dinner, the menu and… who can’t cook!”