Vanderbilt Professor Carol Swain's work is often ground-breaking on issues of race and politics and always provocative. But her thoughts on the uphill task Democrats may have in addressing "Bible-believing Christians" are off the mark:
Democrats must convince evangelical Christians that God is pro-choice on abortion and gay marriage. This will be a harder sell for Bible-believing Christians who have rejected the liberal theocratic [sic, perhaps she means theological] notion that God's word changes to meet the needs of a more enlightened society. The Republicans will portray Obama and the Democrats as lightweights on biblical knowledge and practice.
Saints preserve us! First of all, even if that were true from a descriptive or even strategic point of view, it is not commendable. Unless they happen to be someone like former Senator John Danforth, most politicians aren't experts in biblical interpretation. For a party or a presidential candidate to be channeling the voice of God is, from a certain religious point of view, presumptuous and probably idolatrous. In a softer sort of way, candidates shouldn't have any qualms about drawing on large biblical themes because they are part of the culture. But to assume the pulpit or the teaching office of the Church or another religious body is an improper encroachment upon the role of religious leaders. Faith may, indeed, inform the moral angle of policy on both sides of the aisle, but there must nevertheless be a public rationale based on a sense of the common good.
But I also think Swain is wrong from a descriptive and strategic point of view. She oversimplifies what is going on in Evangelicalism today. While it is true that John McCain is likely to get the majority of this voting bloc, Evangelicals are beginning to reexamine their engagement with politics with some moving away from being one or two-issue voters (if they ever were!). Furthermore, in the case of marriage, the differences between McCain and Obama are not so vast that they loom large in the average voter's mind. Both seem to believe marriage is between one man and one woman and that it's a question for the states.
The issue that Swain doesn't address strategically is what effect a more pronounced biblicism in the Obama campaign would have among Democratic voters. The more secular voters and those whose faith is not Christian may balk. I think the same may be true of Catholic voters whose faith is grounded in a more complex interplay between Bible and Sacred Tradition. At a time when the Obama campaign is being pressed for policy specifics, devoting more time to playing catch up on the Bible might send the message that he is out of touch and that he is pandering.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Visit Exotic East Nashville
The travel section of the Knoxville News Sentinel takes a look at East Nashville this weekend.
East Nashville's diversity is a big benefit. All manner of income levels, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientation and lifestyles can be found here. A lot of free thinkers are in East Nashville's cultural mix, says [Herb] Williams. He lives in the heart of East Nashville with his wife, Amy, and two young children. He contrasts their lifestyle to his childhood spent in a small community in South Alabama. Referring to some of the prejudices of past eras, he says his children won't "have to unlearn something that is backwards. Part of why we love East Nashville is that it is an open and accepting neighborhood," he says. He's proud that his 6-year-old son hasn't grown up with a bias. "He doesn't see any kind of division or class thing. When kids come to school with two mommies or two daddies, it's nothing unusual to him." The family recently attended a neighborhood street festival staged in front of The Lipstick Lounge and Mad Donna's, both lesbian- and gay-friendly establishments. "You are judged more by who you are and what you are doing, than what you look like or what you drive. We have been very happy with that. It's a good place to live."
East Nashville's diversity is a big benefit. All manner of income levels, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientation and lifestyles can be found here. A lot of free thinkers are in East Nashville's cultural mix, says [Herb] Williams. He lives in the heart of East Nashville with his wife, Amy, and two young children. He contrasts their lifestyle to his childhood spent in a small community in South Alabama. Referring to some of the prejudices of past eras, he says his children won't "have to unlearn something that is backwards. Part of why we love East Nashville is that it is an open and accepting neighborhood," he says. He's proud that his 6-year-old son hasn't grown up with a bias. "He doesn't see any kind of division or class thing. When kids come to school with two mommies or two daddies, it's nothing unusual to him." The family recently attended a neighborhood street festival staged in front of The Lipstick Lounge and Mad Donna's, both lesbian- and gay-friendly establishments. "You are judged more by who you are and what you are doing, than what you look like or what you drive. We have been very happy with that. It's a good place to live."
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Obama camp hits McCain on opposition to Shepard Act
The Washington Blade reports that the Obama campaign is challenging John McCain on his opposition to the Matthew Shepard Act, which would add sexual orientation and gender identity as federally protected categories:
In a conference call Monday, an official with the Obama campaign’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Steering Committee noted that Obama is a strong supporter of the Matthew Shepard National Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act while McCain opposes the legislation.
“We feel it’s important to point out the stark contrast between Sen. Obama and Sen. McCain on this issue,” said Matt Nosanchuk, an official with the Obama LGBT Steering and Policy Committee.
The challenge came as a result of the sharp increase in anti-GLBT hate violence this year:
[Sharon] Stapel [of the New York City Anti-Violence Project] and Avy Skolnik, who heads the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, which is affiliated with the New York group, said recent incidents of anti-gay and anti-trans violence have occurred in at least seven states, including New York, Colorado, Texas, Tennessee and Ohio.
The piece is a welcome effort at showcasing the issue of hate crimes in the campaign. Unfortunately, while the reporter sought comment from the McCain campaign, the story went to press before there was a response. I think a piece like this could have waited a couple of days to provide opportunity for McCain to weigh in.
In a conference call Monday, an official with the Obama campaign’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Steering Committee noted that Obama is a strong supporter of the Matthew Shepard National Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act while McCain opposes the legislation.
“We feel it’s important to point out the stark contrast between Sen. Obama and Sen. McCain on this issue,” said Matt Nosanchuk, an official with the Obama LGBT Steering and Policy Committee.
The challenge came as a result of the sharp increase in anti-GLBT hate violence this year:
[Sharon] Stapel [of the New York City Anti-Violence Project] and Avy Skolnik, who heads the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, which is affiliated with the New York group, said recent incidents of anti-gay and anti-trans violence have occurred in at least seven states, including New York, Colorado, Texas, Tennessee and Ohio.
The piece is a welcome effort at showcasing the issue of hate crimes in the campaign. Unfortunately, while the reporter sought comment from the McCain campaign, the story went to press before there was a response. I think a piece like this could have waited a couple of days to provide opportunity for McCain to weigh in.
Ohio woman tells Bredesen she supports Biden
An Ohio paper catches up with Governor Phil Bredesen while he's stumping and stomping around the Buckeye state for Barack Obama. Prior to being publicly named as Obama's vice presidential pick, Biden received the strong endorsement of one voter Bredesen came across:
Linda Love, a retired Chillicothe Telephone employee, spoke with Bredesen Friday about her strong feelings Obama should choose Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware, chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee.
Biden is one of three presumptive vice-presidential front-runners - Sen. Evan Bayh of Indiana and Virginia Gov. Tom Kaine also are on that short list.
"I told him if Obama picks Biden, I'll vote for him," Love said. "Otherwise, I'll not vote. I'm not stupid enough to vote for a Republican. Most of us were for (Hillary) Clinton, but when Obama got it, we had to switch gears."
Love feels 65-year-old Biden has the experience Obama lacks and Bayh, 52, and Kaine, 50, are too young.
"We need someone now who can do something. Our country is such a mess," Love said.
Biden messaging already in place
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has already updated its fundraising script. I got a call this afternoon touting Obama's choice of Senator Joe Biden as his running mate.
Knoxville busybody taking the "her" away from Ina Fried
A Wikipedia user in Knoxville hiding under the cloak of anonymity is editing the entries of Transgender technology guru Ina Fried. Supposedly, this anonymous editor is a medical student with an emphasis in clinical psychology. I hope there are some good meds for people with control issues. Physician, heal thyself!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Johnson City hate crime update
Tennessean Layoffs
The Tennessean made a layoff announcement on Wednesday, leaving 40 open positions unfilled. One of those is the arts writer (Jonathan Marx’s old position) and Leon Alligood’s position.
They also cut 10 more spots by laying off a copy editor, a librarian, a graphics guy, a marketing/editing person, and a sports copy editor, as well as a couple of folks in other departments. Two positions were moved from the Entertainment team to the Online content team.
This leaves their Features department with just three writers. And there’s more reorganization to come, we hear. Some of that may include a retooling of the weekly RAGE and renaming it to work with their online "MetroMix". It's clear the MetroMix is in competition with the entertainment calendar that's done by the Community Foundation, which has partnered with the Nashville City Paper to promote and have people use. Frankly I don't like any of the Tennessean's Web sites. They are dificult to navigate, and have way too much crap on them. But I guess the more info they can load up on them, the more "hits" they can claim and generate more ad revenue from them.
With Matt Pulle leaving the Nashville Scene, what's in store for that publication? A softer and more entertainment approach to compete with the Rage? Perhaps more stories about downtown living (how many times can That topic be reported on?). Will the Nashville City Paper step up to become the weekly news source that the Scene once was?
They also cut 10 more spots by laying off a copy editor, a librarian, a graphics guy, a marketing/editing person, and a sports copy editor, as well as a couple of folks in other departments. Two positions were moved from the Entertainment team to the Online content team.
This leaves their Features department with just three writers. And there’s more reorganization to come, we hear. Some of that may include a retooling of the weekly RAGE and renaming it to work with their online "MetroMix". It's clear the MetroMix is in competition with the entertainment calendar that's done by the Community Foundation, which has partnered with the Nashville City Paper to promote and have people use. Frankly I don't like any of the Tennessean's Web sites. They are dificult to navigate, and have way too much crap on them. But I guess the more info they can load up on them, the more "hits" they can claim and generate more ad revenue from them.
With Matt Pulle leaving the Nashville Scene, what's in store for that publication? A softer and more entertainment approach to compete with the Rage? Perhaps more stories about downtown living (how many times can That topic be reported on?). Will the Nashville City Paper step up to become the weekly news source that the Scene once was?
Thursday, August 21, 2008
HRC says the GOP wants to hear from you
From today's Human Rights Campaign update:
| ACT | |
| The Republican Platform Committee is requesting public input for their 2008 platform. Now's your chance to tell them to support hate crimes legislation, protect GLBT people from workplace discrimination or just stop supporting the discriminatory Federal Marriage Amendment! Sign-up on their site to submit your written or video entry. | |
|
Join TEP's AIDS Walk team
Dear Friend,
The annual Nashville CARES AIDS Walk is Saturday, October 4 at Bicentennial State Park in Nashville. We would love to have you as part of TEP’s walk team.
To sign up:
- Click here to go to www.nashvilleaidswalk.com.
- Click on Register Here (at the top of the page).
- Read the Waiver/Agreement, then click on I agree.
- Select Join a Team. When the dropdown list of teams is displayed underneath "Join an Existing Team," select "TEP".
After you register, begin asking your friends and family members to sponsor you. 100 percent of the money you raise will go to Nashville CARES.
The day of the event, meet at TEP's table just before the walk. More details will follow.
If you have questions, please, contact me at lisa@tnequalityproject.com. I hope you can join us for a day of fun that provides critical resources to a great cause.
Yours,
TEP Secretary and AIDS Walk Coordinator
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Quotation of the week
"When one of them is governor, they're welcome to make the determination about how you handle this..." --Governor Phil Bredesen referring to House Majority Leader Gary Odom and Minority Leader Jason Mumpower's calls for an independent investigation and the release of names in the THP background check scandal.
Disperse, there's nothing to see here.
Disperse, there's nothing to see here.
Party purge avoided
No, this news is not out of China; we're talking about Knoxville. A 19 year-old district delegate of the Democratic Party is going to be allowed to keep her position after she faced expulsion for appearing at a Republican event.
In an e-mail to the News Sentinel, [Chairwoman Sylvia] Woods wrote that she and 8th District delegate Caroline Hindman have discussed the matter and that Hindman now understands her responsibilities.
That's the way to lock up the youth vote!
In an e-mail to the News Sentinel, [Chairwoman Sylvia] Woods wrote that she and 8th District delegate Caroline Hindman have discussed the matter and that Hindman now understands her responsibilities.
Woods added that the people within the party who originally filed the complaint have withdrawn it and also want Hindman to stay and participate. Hindman has faced a possible impeachment, the local Democrats said.
Previously, Woods had criticized Hindman for what Woods saw as a failure to fulfill the duties of the office, compounded by her appearance at the Republican victory party earlier this month.
Even though some of the issue centers around Hindman missing meetings, what propelled the story was the fact that she was being attacked for her appearance at a family friend's victory party. Apparently it caused a lot of shouting at a Knox County Democratic convention on Tuesday.That's the way to lock up the youth vote!
Tennessee Valley UU Church shooter indicted
Jim David Atkisson, the man accused of opening fire in the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church, has been indicted on two charges of first-degree murder, according to the Knoxville News Sentinel. The Grand Jury also indicted him on two counts of felony murder and six counts of attempted first-degree murder.
Adkisson may be facing federal charges as well. U.S. Attorney Russ Dedrick is keeping mum, but the FBI is conducting a civil-rights probe, and Dedrick's office has an extensive history of prosecuting civil-rights cases.
Adkisson may be facing federal charges as well. U.S. Attorney Russ Dedrick is keeping mum, but the FBI is conducting a civil-rights probe, and Dedrick's office has an extensive history of prosecuting civil-rights cases.
Nikki Tinker attempts to salvage what's left of her reputation
The Commercial Appeal printed a guest column by the former Democratic primary candidate for the 9th Congressional District. Tinker tries to defend herself against the national criticism she received for the attack ads on Steve Cohen she released in the last days of her campaign:
Tinker goes to claim:
I can't blame Tinker for wanting make amends for the offensive ad campaign she ran, but her complaint about not being heard on the issues seems insincere to me.
During her one debate with opponents and in my own personal interview with her in the spring, she offered few details about her legislative agenda and objectives. This told me that she was either a policy lightweight who had no business running for Congress or she was being backed by supporters who could easily manipulate her into voting for the more privileged classes in our society, i.e., Big Business.
Try as we might to have honest discussions on such important issues as education, health care, the economy and more, too often these conversations do not happen. Sometimes other issues -- race and religion, for example -- take precedence.
I believe that was the case in my recent campaign for the Democratic nomination for Congress from Tennessee's 9th District, which ended with my television ads at the center of the debate. I wanted these ads to focus on issues, but instead the ads themselves became an issue.
Through the ads, I wanted to respond to Congressman Steve Cohen's challenge to us to examine his voting record. The ads were never intended as an attack on race or religion, or as an attempt to divide our community. But, if they did, I want to take responsibility and sincerely apologize for any pain they may have caused.
Tinker goes to claim:
I wanted to be heard on the substantive issues of the campaign -- health care, Iraq, immigration and education, and I wanted to take the challenge offered by Cohen, to look closely at his voting record. Yet reporting on the congressional race came down to race and religion.
I can't blame Tinker for wanting make amends for the offensive ad campaign she ran, but her complaint about not being heard on the issues seems insincere to me.
During her one debate with opponents and in my own personal interview with her in the spring, she offered few details about her legislative agenda and objectives. This told me that she was either a policy lightweight who had no business running for Congress or she was being backed by supporters who could easily manipulate her into voting for the more privileged classes in our society, i.e., Big Business.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
More details, questions on the THP scandal
Early this morning, Mr. Kleinheider displayed his prophetic gifts in quipping that "This is Gonna Get Exciting If There Are Journalists On The List." It turns out he is right.
According to WSMV, "The department won't release the names of those individuals on the list, but[Patrol Colonel Mike] Walker said it included two journalists and one country music personality." The list doesn't include elected officials, though. [Update: I originally said it doesn't include candidates. Actually, that possibility hasn't been ruled out.]
Meanwhile, Republican House candidate A.J. McCall, who is running against Democrat Stratton Bone, came forward and told Clint Brewer that his records from the early 90s were provided to House Minority Leader Jason Mumpower and Rep. Clen Casada.
Other than timing, the incidents may not be related since McCall notes that "the records of his arrests, though expunged, have been used against him repeatedly in the last year in political activity. McCall said numerous automated 'robo' calls and at least one negative 'push' poll conducted in the 46th District have brought up the two DUI charges to voters." McCall admits that he doesn't know who conducted the robo calls or the push poll. And Mumpower has also said that a direct link between the incidents has not been established.
But given the timing, Mumpower's hunch is justified until it is established who is pushing the information about McCall. So far, there is no indication that the public will soon know who is on the list. That means that questions will linger and flare up through November. In themselves, these invasive background checks are scandalous. But they are detrimental in their effects as well. With so little coverage of legislative races, this may be the only issue that stands out. And that will have the unfortunate effect of drowning out the policy differences among candidates.
There is no word yet on whether we will see independent investigations of these events.
According to WSMV, "The department won't release the names of those individuals on the list, but[Patrol Colonel Mike] Walker said it included two journalists and one country music personality." The list doesn't include elected officials, though. [Update: I originally said it doesn't include candidates. Actually, that possibility hasn't been ruled out.]
Meanwhile, Republican House candidate A.J. McCall, who is running against Democrat Stratton Bone, came forward and told Clint Brewer that his records from the early 90s were provided to House Minority Leader Jason Mumpower and Rep. Clen Casada.
Other than timing, the incidents may not be related since McCall notes that "the records of his arrests, though expunged, have been used against him repeatedly in the last year in political activity. McCall said numerous automated 'robo' calls and at least one negative 'push' poll conducted in the 46th District have brought up the two DUI charges to voters." McCall admits that he doesn't know who conducted the robo calls or the push poll. And Mumpower has also said that a direct link between the incidents has not been established.
But given the timing, Mumpower's hunch is justified until it is established who is pushing the information about McCall. So far, there is no indication that the public will soon know who is on the list. That means that questions will linger and flare up through November. In themselves, these invasive background checks are scandalous. But they are detrimental in their effects as well. With so little coverage of legislative races, this may be the only issue that stands out. And that will have the unfortunate effect of drowning out the policy differences among candidates.
There is no word yet on whether we will see independent investigations of these events.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Mumpower joins Odom in call for investigation, reveals mysterious incident
House Minority Leader Jason Mumpower has joined Majority Leader Gary Odom in calling for an "outside investigation" into the background checks conducted by a member of the Tennessee Highway Patrol.
In the piece written by the Tennessean's Brad Schrade, Mumpower also reveals a chilling incident that happened a few weeks ago:
Mumpower said his concerns are compounded by a mysterious incident a month and a half ago at his legislative office at the Capitol complex.
The Bristol Republican said an envelope appeared overnight in his locked office containing photocopies of THP arrest records involving a Republican candidate for state House. The arrest had happened years ago, and did not result in a conviction.
Mumpower would not identify the candidate, but said the episode smelled of political dirty tricks.
“Intimidation is the only thing I can think of,” Mumpower said, who said THP officers who work at the Capitol have keys to the legislative offices, as do cleaning personnel and some staff members.
Toward the end of the piece, the word "fake" shows up again in reference to the disciplinary action against the trooper in question, along with a reminder that the administration still hasn't answered some of the lingering questions around the ticket fixing incident from a few years ago:
When the ticket-fixing became public, the patrol leadership at the time concocted a fake punishment for Shirley, The Tennessean later reported. Why Shirley was given a break has never fully been answered by the Bredesen administration.
This scandal is extremely discouraging. Coming on the heels of one of the more partisan legislative sessions, it will no doubt fan the flames. Leaders of both parties know what is at stake and are to be commended for calling for a thorough, independent, and public investigation. The other bright spot is some tenacious reporting by the Tennessean. Their staff cuts and other issues are bound to be a distraction these days, but don't count them out yet.
In the piece written by the Tennessean's Brad Schrade, Mumpower also reveals a chilling incident that happened a few weeks ago:
Mumpower said his concerns are compounded by a mysterious incident a month and a half ago at his legislative office at the Capitol complex.
The Bristol Republican said an envelope appeared overnight in his locked office containing photocopies of THP arrest records involving a Republican candidate for state House. The arrest had happened years ago, and did not result in a conviction.
Mumpower would not identify the candidate, but said the episode smelled of political dirty tricks.
“Intimidation is the only thing I can think of,” Mumpower said, who said THP officers who work at the Capitol have keys to the legislative offices, as do cleaning personnel and some staff members.
Toward the end of the piece, the word "fake" shows up again in reference to the disciplinary action against the trooper in question, along with a reminder that the administration still hasn't answered some of the lingering questions around the ticket fixing incident from a few years ago:
When the ticket-fixing became public, the patrol leadership at the time concocted a fake punishment for Shirley, The Tennessean later reported. Why Shirley was given a break has never fully been answered by the Bredesen administration.
This scandal is extremely discouraging. Coming on the heels of one of the more partisan legislative sessions, it will no doubt fan the flames. Leaders of both parties know what is at stake and are to be commended for calling for a thorough, independent, and public investigation. The other bright spot is some tenacious reporting by the Tennessean. Their staff cuts and other issues are bound to be a distraction these days, but don't count them out yet.
So who's running for Memphis City Council?
Only four people have picked up petitions for this special election on November 4:
- Brian Stephens, who made it to a runoff with Bill Boyd for the East Memphis-Cordova District 2 council seat before losing to Boyd in a runoff.
- Kemp Conrad, who finished second in a hard-fought campaign for the Position 2 seat in the Super District claimed by Shea Flinn.
- Lester Lit, who finished fourth in the Position 3 race in the Super District claimed by Reid Hedgepeth.
- Regina Newman, an attorney who finished second in a nine-candidate field for General Sessions Judge Division 4 in 2006, also picked up a council petition.
The filing deadline is 12 Noon on Thurday, August 21.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Green Party's McKinney in Tennessee this week
A press release from Chris Lugo says that Green Party presidential candidate Cynthia McKinney will be in Tennessee this week with stops in Memphis, Jackson, Dickson, and Nashville on Wednesday and Thursday. Stops in Nashville include Tennessee State University, Fisk University, and Carver Food Park.
As the Green Party candidate, issues of environmental and racial justice will
highlight her Tennessee visit. “Cynthia has chosen to visit people and places
highlight her Tennessee visit. “Cynthia has chosen to visit people and places
that the Democrats and Republicans would would rather forget, such as
the victims of environmental racism in Dickson, Tennessee. I think this is why
Cynthia is the best choice this election season, because it is clear that she is
the people's candidate," said Chris Lugo Green candidate for the US Senate.
Make it public, says Odom
House Majority Leader Gary Odom (D-Nashville) is calling for the names of those who were the subject of background checks said to be run by Lt. Ronnie Shirley of the Tennessee Highway Patrol to be released.
In unusually informal, frank, and editorializing language, the Tennessean describes the THP's past "disciplining" of Lt. Shirley when he assisted then Deputy Governor Dave Cooley with a ticket:
And given the issues and the perception of issues in the department's past, a little sunlight on the background checks in question is justified. As Rep. Odom points out, "I sincerely hope these checks haven't been used for political or personal vendettas. If they were, we could be talking about official misconduct here."
Odom said the list could contain "as many as 300 names," according to multiple sources he has spoken with. He would not disclose the sources. "I think once we know the names, then we will have a better understanding of the motives for these activities, and then we will know what needs to take place next," said Odom, D-Nashville. "We need to know if these were private citizens, politically active individuals or just acquaintances of the officer."
The THP is conducting an investigation and says that the results will be handed over to the District Attorney when completed.In unusually informal, frank, and editorializing language, the Tennessean describes the THP's past "disciplining" of Lt. Shirley when he assisted then Deputy Governor Dave Cooley with a ticket:
A resulting investigation ended in reprimands for Cooley and Shirley. Shirley was then transferred to an assignment closer to his home in Wilson County. The transfer was part of a ruse by the THP's top brass at the time, as it tried to fake a punishment for Shirley to throw off the press and the public, The Tennessean later reported.
Internal notes obtained by the newspaper said the idea was to reassign Shirley from Rutherford County to Wilson County so that, according to the notes, "the media will be satisfied thinking we did something to him." The reassignment would actually only be "on paper."
It is seldom that one sees "fake" as a verb, "ruse," and "top brass" used in the body of a story. Still, given the clear contempt for the media, the public, and the discipline process referenced in the memo, perhaps the shift in language is justified. It just might have worked better in the "Voices and Views" segment than in the text of the story.And given the issues and the perception of issues in the department's past, a little sunlight on the background checks in question is justified. As Rep. Odom points out, "I sincerely hope these checks haven't been used for political or personal vendettas. If they were, we could be talking about official misconduct here."
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Reactions to the Noose
Yolanda Putnam gives us a sample of some of the community reactions to the second noose found a Blue Cross Blue Shield building site in Chattanooga.
...the city’s Office of Multicultural Affairs is launching a marketing campaign to advertise its discrimination hot line. “This type of demonstration will not be tolerated,” said Multicultural Affairs board member Norma Hansen at the group’s monthly meeting Wednesday.
But the office is doing even more:
The group also is establishing a citywide policy for responding to hate crimes, and it has been conducting events such as the Sweet Diversity neighborhood meetings that celebrate ethnic differences. “If you plant hatred, those weeds will attempt to drown out the good seeds,” Ms. Hansen said. “We want to plant seeds of harmony and respect throughout the community.”
Blue Cross Blue Shield has also spoken out in a memo to employees:
“Blue Cross BlueShield of Tennessee will not stand for this behavior,” wrote President and CEO Vicky Gregg in an e-mail to employees this week. “BCBST has a proud history of diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age or faith.”
These responses are extremely positive. They indicate that hate crimes must be taken seriously by the entire community. It is also encouraging that government and a major corporation are taking the lead. Some might consider a couple of nooses a joke, but they should be construed as a threat of violence based on bias.
...the city’s Office of Multicultural Affairs is launching a marketing campaign to advertise its discrimination hot line. “This type of demonstration will not be tolerated,” said Multicultural Affairs board member Norma Hansen at the group’s monthly meeting Wednesday.
But the office is doing even more:
The group also is establishing a citywide policy for responding to hate crimes, and it has been conducting events such as the Sweet Diversity neighborhood meetings that celebrate ethnic differences. “If you plant hatred, those weeds will attempt to drown out the good seeds,” Ms. Hansen said. “We want to plant seeds of harmony and respect throughout the community.”
Blue Cross Blue Shield has also spoken out in a memo to employees:
“Blue Cross BlueShield of Tennessee will not stand for this behavior,” wrote President and CEO Vicky Gregg in an e-mail to employees this week. “BCBST has a proud history of diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age or faith.”
These responses are extremely positive. They indicate that hate crimes must be taken seriously by the entire community. It is also encouraging that government and a major corporation are taking the lead. Some might consider a couple of nooses a joke, but they should be construed as a threat of violence based on bias.
TN group said to have opposed Oregon partnership law
A group allegedly based in Tennessee, Restore America, helped with an unsuccessful challenge to Oregon's domestic partnership law. Opponents of the law passed by the Legislature attempted to get enough signatures to bring the issue to the ballot. The Oregon Secretary of State ruled that they failed in their effort, a decision upheld by a federal appeals court.
"This was a backdoor attempt by out-of-state interests to overturn a law passed fair and square," said state Rep. Tina Kotek, D-Portland, who supported the domestic-partnership law.
Restore America's website shows an Oregon address as does their 2006 990.
Update: Apparently the executive director lives in Tennessee.
"This was a backdoor attempt by out-of-state interests to overturn a law passed fair and square," said state Rep. Tina Kotek, D-Portland, who supported the domestic-partnership law.
Restore America's website shows an Oregon address as does their 2006 990.
Update: Apparently the executive director lives in Tennessee.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Gratuitous jab at marriage equality of the week: Becky Ruppe
Earlier in the week, Sean Braisted blogged about Democratic Senate candidate Becky Ruppe's radio spot. Thanks to Sean, you can find the audio of the spot here. The ad tells the struggles of her life and then ends with a list of conservative stances including her opposition to "gay marriage."
Thanks for sharing, Ms. Ruppe. Is your district a hotbed of GLBT activism? What exactly prompted you to include that item in your ad? You have heard, I hope, that the Legislature and the voters have already decided this matter in Tennessee.
The ad is also posted here at the Tennessee Democratic Party's blog. Interestingly, it is posted without comment and no one has complained in the comment section.
On her website, she says, "Marriage, as so defined, is a union between one man and one woman: I will make all my decisions regarding this issue based on Christian values." What would she say if she were to learn that some of us who want marriage equality were pursuing it because of Christian values?
Ruppe's ad is pernicious for at least one of two reasons. Either she is misleading the voters into thinking that marriage is an issue in Tennessee or she is whipping up prejudice against GLBT people to bolster her conservative credentials.
If you'd like to share some of your own gratuitous opinions with Ms. Ruppe, you can do so in a variety of ways here.
Thanks for sharing, Ms. Ruppe. Is your district a hotbed of GLBT activism? What exactly prompted you to include that item in your ad? You have heard, I hope, that the Legislature and the voters have already decided this matter in Tennessee.
The ad is also posted here at the Tennessee Democratic Party's blog. Interestingly, it is posted without comment and no one has complained in the comment section.
On her website, she says, "Marriage, as so defined, is a union between one man and one woman: I will make all my decisions regarding this issue based on Christian values." What would she say if she were to learn that some of us who want marriage equality were pursuing it because of Christian values?
Ruppe's ad is pernicious for at least one of two reasons. Either she is misleading the voters into thinking that marriage is an issue in Tennessee or she is whipping up prejudice against GLBT people to bolster her conservative credentials.
If you'd like to share some of your own gratuitous opinions with Ms. Ruppe, you can do so in a variety of ways here.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Dormition
Tonight is the eve of the Feast of the Dormition. Related to the Feast of the Assumption in the Western Church, the Dormition marks the passing of the Theotokos, the Virgin Mary, from death to everlasting life. One of the twelve great feasts of the Eastern Church, the Dormition includes the beautiful story that as the Virgin was dying, the Apostles were gathered by the clouds from the ends of the earth and brought to Mary's deathbed.
The end of one of the prayers from the morning service is said in St. Peter's voice as he looks with fear and cries to Mary: "Pray, then, fervently to thy Son and God to save thy flock from harm." (Festal Menaion)
People gathering for the feast in Orthodox Churches in Eastern Europe and the Trans-Caucasus will find new depths in the service as they mourn their loved ones and struggle to come to terms with the fratricide of inter-Orthodox conflict. In the midst of debating issues of territory, who was the aggressor first, and natural resources, this profoundly tragic aspect is often lost.
To his credit, Russian Orthodox Patriarch Alexy II called for a cease fire early in the conflict:
"Today blood is shed and people are killed in South Ossetia and my heart deeply laments over it. Orthodox Christians are among those who have raised their hands against each other. Orthodox peoples called by the Lord to live in fraternity and love confront each other," the Church primate stresses.
Referring to the appeal of Catholicos-Patriarch Ilia II of Georgia who urged to peace, Patriarch Alexy also turned his "ardent call" to those "who are blind with enmity": "Stop! Don't let more blood shed! Don't let today's conflict boil over! Show wisdom and courage: come to negotiating table to respect traditions, outlook and hopes of Georgian and Ossetian people."
The Patriarch has stated the Russian Orthodox Church is ready to unite its efforts with the Georgian Church to help peace come. "May Our God, Who is "not a God of disorder but of peace," be our Assistant in it," Alexy II statement says.
See also this statement from Metropolitan Herman of the Orthodox Church in America.
Another noose found at Blue Cross Blue Shield building site
Noose number 2 has been found by construction workers at a Blue Cross Blue Shield in Chattanooga. The FBI continues to investigate. The construction company is attempting to deal with the situation.
Skanska, the company in charge of the construction project, is offering diversity and sensitivity training. So far, said John Reyhan, general manager for the project, morale has not been affected.
“We’ve added a tremendous amount of security at the site,” Mr. Reyhan said. “And at our jobwide meeting every morning we are encouraging anyone to come forward with any reports of intimidation.”
No one is speculating about the motive. I wondered in my last post about the subject whether the crew were being targeted. We don't have any information about the racial and ethnic makeup of the workers. It's interesting that the construction company is offering sensitivity training. Does that mean that they're not ruling out the possibility that someone on the crew is involved?Nonprofit civic engagement up despite few resources
A recent Johns Hopkins University Center for Civil Society Studies-Institute for Policy Studies survey indicates that nonprofits are becoming increasingly active in policy advocacy, particularly at the State and local level. But sustainability of their efforts is a living question since resources for policy advocacy and lobbying in this sector are few.
872 nonprofits were surveyed. Almost 75 percent of the respondents were involved in policy advocacy or lobbying. Of those, about 60% did so once a month or more. 85% of responding organizations said they devoted less than 2 percent of their resources to policy work. Typically, the executive director of the organization was the key policy representative. The vast majority of the work was done in the State and local arenas.
The piece sees the growing policy work as a positive trend and suggests ways to support advocacy:
• Strengthen the policy advocacy and lobbying capacity of field-specific nonprofit intermediary organizations. These organizations have assumed a crucial role in backstopping
the policy involvement of local service organizations but often lack the resources to support this functionas effectively as is needed.
• Expand foundation support for nonprofit involvement in policy advocacy and civic engagement. Many foundations take at best a “hands-off” posture, and at times an actively negative one, toward nonprofit policy involvement and civic engagement. This puts an unnecessary damper on what should be a major function of the nation’s nonprofit institutions—giving voice to the voiceless and raising unaddressed issues to national policy attention. More than that, since the major impediment to more thoroughgoing nonprofit engagement in the policy process is the lack of resources, and therefore the lack oftime, that even the large organizations have available for this function, foundations need to re-think their hands-off
position toward nonprofit advocacy and increase their financial support for this important function. To be sure, the constraints under which foundations operate put limits
on such support, but those limits are often far less severe than many overly cautious foundations may assume. As government policy has become increasingly central to the
fiscal health of the sector and to the well-being of the people the sector is serving, foundations need to recognize the important role they must play in helping organizations participate in the shaping of this policy.
• Encourage and equip nonprofi t organizations to engage their boards and the publics they serve in their advocacy and lobbying activities. Nonprofit executives need help in performing the advocacy and lobbying responsibilities of their organizations. These responsibilities therefore need to become a bigger part of the responsibilities of nonprofit
boards, integrated into board mission statements and board training. In addition, organizations need to be encouraged, and trained, to engage the citizen base of their operations in their advocacy activities. This will require training and support for staff to perform this function.
• Strengthen the sector’s capacity to equip small and mid-sized organizations to operate in the policy arena. Smaller organizations clearly have special challenges in
operating in the policy arena. From the data presented here, these organizations tend to be less well-informed about the existing laws and regulations in this field. What is more, they are less likely to be members of advocacy coalitions and have fewer staff resources to devote to this function. Since these organizations are far more numerous than the large organizations, ensuring a voice for them in the advocacy arena is thus especially important. Expanded programs specially targeted at this segment of the sector thus seem needed.
872 nonprofits were surveyed. Almost 75 percent of the respondents were involved in policy advocacy or lobbying. Of those, about 60% did so once a month or more. 85% of responding organizations said they devoted less than 2 percent of their resources to policy work. Typically, the executive director of the organization was the key policy representative. The vast majority of the work was done in the State and local arenas.
The piece sees the growing policy work as a positive trend and suggests ways to support advocacy:
• Strengthen the policy advocacy and lobbying capacity of field-specific nonprofit intermediary organizations. These organizations have assumed a crucial role in backstopping
the policy involvement of local service organizations but often lack the resources to support this functionas effectively as is needed.
• Expand foundation support for nonprofit involvement in policy advocacy and civic engagement. Many foundations take at best a “hands-off” posture, and at times an actively negative one, toward nonprofit policy involvement and civic engagement. This puts an unnecessary damper on what should be a major function of the nation’s nonprofit institutions—giving voice to the voiceless and raising unaddressed issues to national policy attention. More than that, since the major impediment to more thoroughgoing nonprofit engagement in the policy process is the lack of resources, and therefore the lack oftime, that even the large organizations have available for this function, foundations need to re-think their hands-off
position toward nonprofit advocacy and increase their financial support for this important function. To be sure, the constraints under which foundations operate put limits
on such support, but those limits are often far less severe than many overly cautious foundations may assume. As government policy has become increasingly central to the
fiscal health of the sector and to the well-being of the people the sector is serving, foundations need to recognize the important role they must play in helping organizations participate in the shaping of this policy.
• Encourage and equip nonprofi t organizations to engage their boards and the publics they serve in their advocacy and lobbying activities. Nonprofit executives need help in performing the advocacy and lobbying responsibilities of their organizations. These responsibilities therefore need to become a bigger part of the responsibilities of nonprofit
boards, integrated into board mission statements and board training. In addition, organizations need to be encouraged, and trained, to engage the citizen base of their operations in their advocacy activities. This will require training and support for staff to perform this function.
• Strengthen the sector’s capacity to equip small and mid-sized organizations to operate in the policy arena. Smaller organizations clearly have special challenges in
operating in the policy arena. From the data presented here, these organizations tend to be less well-informed about the existing laws and regulations in this field. What is more, they are less likely to be members of advocacy coalitions and have fewer staff resources to devote to this function. Since these organizations are far more numerous than the large organizations, ensuring a voice for them in the advocacy arena is thus especially important. Expanded programs specially targeted at this segment of the sector thus seem needed.
12,500 jump to the defense of English
Tomorrow Councilman Eric Crafton will turn in his petition with about 12,500 signatures from Davidson County voters, according to the Tennessean.
It's another story of the success of his campaign. Apart from discussing the Council resolution, the piece doesn't really reveal anything about the opposition.
The lawsuit question was raised in the article, but it was presented inconclusively:
It's another story of the success of his campaign. Apart from discussing the Council resolution, the piece doesn't really reveal anything about the opposition.
The lawsuit question was raised in the article, but it was presented inconclusively:
Crafton and other supporters of the English-only measure have said that it would encourage those who do not speak English to learn the language and would protect Metro from potential litigation brought by individuals who believe they can demand translation services.
Jim Boulet Jr., executive director of the Springfield-Va.-based English First said he is not aware of any such lawsuits. A Kansas Catholic school has been sued because it banned, in most instances, the use of foreign languages at the school.
Perhaps a lawsuit will prevail after this is all over. But those opposing the measure should become visible immediately after it qualifies for the ballot and start spoiling all the "earned media" Crafton has received.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Victory Fund to hold fundraising event in Nashville
Out & About Newspaper reports that the Victory Fund, a national organization that supports openly gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender candidates for local, state, and federal office, is holding a fundraiser in Nashville on September 12.
All money raised during the event will directly aid the following "out" candidates: Jim Roth, who is running for corporate commissioner in Oklahoma; Mark LaFontaine, who is running for state representative, District 92, in Florida; and Lupe Valdez, who is running for sheriff of Dallas County, Texas. "We would love to raise money for a candidate from Tennessee but there isn't one running during this cycle," Taylor said. "Until we can support candidates from Tennessee, we're going to support other southern, national candidates." Kathy Webb, the first openly gay official elected to Arkansas state legislature, and Keith Durbin, Tennessee's first openly gay official elected to state [sic] office, will be at the event.
*Note: Durbin's office is actually local.
Hopefully this event will inspire other members of the GLBT community to explore running for office.
All money raised during the event will directly aid the following "out" candidates: Jim Roth, who is running for corporate commissioner in Oklahoma; Mark LaFontaine, who is running for state representative, District 92, in Florida; and Lupe Valdez, who is running for sheriff of Dallas County, Texas. "We would love to raise money for a candidate from Tennessee but there isn't one running during this cycle," Taylor said. "Until we can support candidates from Tennessee, we're going to support other southern, national candidates." Kathy Webb, the first openly gay official elected to Arkansas state legislature, and Keith Durbin, Tennessee's first openly gay official elected to state [sic] office, will be at the event.
*Note: Durbin's office is actually local.
Hopefully this event will inspire other members of the GLBT community to explore running for office.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
That's so 36 years ago
In another press release, the GLBT Libertarian group, Outright Libertarians Nashville-Middle Tennessee, responds to the news of the most inclusive Democratic Party platform ever.
The Democratic Party Platform , which is to be presented to the Democratic National Convention in Denver later this month for approval, finally adds what party officials described as language opposing the Defense of Marriage Act and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,”
The final draft of the Democratic platform has not been released yet. Although it does not include the words "gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender," it addresses specific policy issues of concern to the GLBT community and does use the terms that are increasingly appearing in legislation such as sexual orientation and gender identity, according to those who helped draft the document and those who participated in a conference call explaining its details.
The Democratic Party Platform , which is to be presented to the Democratic National Convention in Denver later this month for approval, finally adds what party officials described as language opposing the Defense of Marriage Act and “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,”
Outright Libertarians Nashville would like to extend a warm welcome to the Democratic Party to 1972. For the last thirty-five years the Libertarian Party Platform has included equality in marriage, adoption, military service, and immigration for all regardless of their sexual orientation.
If either the Democrat or Republican Parties are looking for more great ideas to include in their party platform, they are more then [sic] welcome to check out the Libertarian Party Platform and take ideas on individual liberties and personal responsibilities.The final draft of the Democratic platform has not been released yet. Although it does not include the words "gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender," it addresses specific policy issues of concern to the GLBT community and does use the terms that are increasingly appearing in legislation such as sexual orientation and gender identity, according to those who helped draft the document and those who participated in a conference call explaining its details.
Council will appoint new public defender
With the tragic death of Metro Public Defender Ross Alderman, the Metro Council will appoint his replacement. Chris Echegary explains the process (fact-checking myself since I had originally attributed the piece to Michael Cass):
Under council rules, Vice Mayor Diane Neighbors will announce the vacancy at the council's next meeting, a week from today.
Council members and the public then will have one week to submit nominations.
The council's appointment must be held at least four weeks after the announcement of the vacancy, meaning it won't happen before Sept. 16.
One fact check on the piece, though. Echegary says that Alderman had faced no opposition in 2002 and 2006. Alderman beat Kelvin Jones in the May 6, 2006 vote.
| PUBLIC DEFENDER |
| Candidate | ABS | EV | FSV | ED | TOT |
| R ALDERMAN | 250 | 2037 | 0 | 15450 | 17737 |
| K JONES | 196 | 1355 | 0 | 10464 | 12015 |
| TOTALS | 446 | 3392 | 0 | 25914 | 29752 |
Monday, August 11, 2008
Hickory Hollow Mall gets new tenant
It's hard to know whether to call this announcement a ray of hope or another indication of the downward slide of Hickory Hollow Mall. The Metro Police Department is setting up an office and a recruiting kiosk in a shopping venue that has seen its share of trouble over the years.
As well as security issues and store closings, Hickory Hollow Mall has been in the news because Metro Council members representing Antioch have called for tax increment financing in response to the deal that was finally cut for the Bellevue Mall.
There's no doubt that shoppers and employees at Hickory Hollow need added security. 37013, the Zip Code for the mall, has one of the highest crime rates in the city and it increased from 2006 to 2007. Hickory Hollow Mall was also the site of Antioch's Night Out Against Crime rally.
But how will a police presence play with prospective retail clients? Will it give them confidence or confirm that they ought to look elsewhere? Regardless, safety comes first. I hope it's one of many steps to improve the quality of life for the residents of Southeast Davidson County.
As well as security issues and store closings, Hickory Hollow Mall has been in the news because Metro Council members representing Antioch have called for tax increment financing in response to the deal that was finally cut for the Bellevue Mall.
There's no doubt that shoppers and employees at Hickory Hollow need added security. 37013, the Zip Code for the mall, has one of the highest crime rates in the city and it increased from 2006 to 2007. Hickory Hollow Mall was also the site of Antioch's Night Out Against Crime rally.
But how will a police presence play with prospective retail clients? Will it give them confidence or confirm that they ought to look elsewhere? Regardless, safety comes first. I hope it's one of many steps to improve the quality of life for the residents of Southeast Davidson County.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
What to do with your war chest when the battle's over
Matt Wilson looks into what former State Sen. Ward Crutchfield (D-Chattanooga) is doing with his campaign fund.
Rep. Joanne Favors stands by the former senator, who was brought down in the Tennessee Waltz sting, in her comments.
I think that response is pretty bad. Granted, it's an awkward thing to have to explain. But what message does it send to donors when you say, "Gee, I don't know. Lots of people give"? If someone with a nonprofit is asked and decides to comment, it might be best to check the database or send the reporter a copy of your donor report for the year in question. Or maybe it might be best not to discuss donors at all. But to take the money and comment that there are just so many supporters says individual contributions don't matter. I guess her organization won't be seeing much more of the $166,000 that remains in Sen. Crutchfield's account. It's a shame, too, because that would be a great use for the money. Kicking a man when he is trying to redeem himself is a lost opportunity.
No money other than about $2,000 in interest has been added to his campaign funds in the year since he pleaded guilty, records show.
Over that time, Mr. Crutchfield has used some of the funds for campaign contributions to Hamilton County Board of Education members Debra Matthews and Janice Boydston, as well as state Reps. Joanne Favors and Tommie Brown, both D-Chattanooga. His campaign contributions totaled $1,000, according to records.
The piece retains a neutral tone, carefully noting what kinds of contributions from political committees are permitted and which are not.Rep. Joanne Favors stands by the former senator, who was brought down in the Tennessee Waltz sting, in her comments.
Rep. Favors said she saw no problem with accepting the $250 contribution, though she did not ask for the money. “It was done openly,” she said. “I still consider Sen. Crutchfield a friend of mine.”
Other recipients are less flattering: Marilyn Harrison, vice president of Allied Arts, said she was not familiar with the contribution. She said many donors support Allied Arts.I think that response is pretty bad. Granted, it's an awkward thing to have to explain. But what message does it send to donors when you say, "Gee, I don't know. Lots of people give"? If someone with a nonprofit is asked and decides to comment, it might be best to check the database or send the reporter a copy of your donor report for the year in question. Or maybe it might be best not to discuss donors at all. But to take the money and comment that there are just so many supporters says individual contributions don't matter. I guess her organization won't be seeing much more of the $166,000 that remains in Sen. Crutchfield's account. It's a shame, too, because that would be a great use for the money. Kicking a man when he is trying to redeem himself is a lost opportunity.
Coriolanus: Relevant but nonpartisan
Bill Friskics-Warren previews the Nashville Shakespeare Festival's Coriolanus in today's Tennessean.
As celebrity and war hero, Coriolanus hits images in the current presidential campaign. According to artistic director Denice Hicks, "The contemporary relevance of the play is undeniable," said Hicks. "Coriolanus is a celebrity who the people insist on becoming a role model/politician." She goes on to say:
"We haven't taken this play and said, 'Look how great our Republicans are' or 'Look how great our Democrats are,' " she said. "Between McCain and Obama, we have a war hero and an outsider/newcomer. You see those qualities in Coriolanus, as well. He has to show his 27 war wounds to the people before they'll elect him."
As celebrity and war hero, Coriolanus hits images in the current presidential campaign. According to artistic director Denice Hicks, "The contemporary relevance of the play is undeniable," said Hicks. "Coriolanus is a celebrity who the people insist on becoming a role model/politician." She goes on to say:
"We haven't taken this play and said, 'Look how great our Republicans are' or 'Look how great our Democrats are,' " she said. "Between McCain and Obama, we have a war hero and an outsider/newcomer. You see those qualities in Coriolanus, as well. He has to show his 27 war wounds to the people before they'll elect him."
The Nashville Shakespeare Festival
in collaboration with Naked Stages
presents
August 14 - September 7, 2008
FREE & Open to the Public
Suggested Donation: $5
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Hating the Speaker doesn't get you very far
Tom Humphrey has an interesting piece today that is a mixture of post primary analysis and projections about the general election in November. One of the conclusions is that Republicans who campaigned as if they were running against House Speaker Jimmy Naifeh didn't get very far.
Rep. Doug Overby beat Sen. Ray Finney for Finney's Senate seat. He had voted for Naifeh for Speaker. Rep. Kent Williams won an easy reelection victory against Jerome Cochran, who explicitly used Naifeh as an issue. Williams states the lesson clearly:
And why doesn't it work? I guess the better question is, "Why would it?" In an election that drew very little media attention, an election in which few people voted, it's a stretch to expect most voters throughout the State to be fired up about the Speaker of the House when they may not even know who is running in their own district.
Rep. Doug Overby beat Sen. Ray Finney for Finney's Senate seat. He had voted for Naifeh for Speaker. Rep. Kent Williams won an easy reelection victory against Jerome Cochran, who explicitly used Naifeh as an issue. Williams states the lesson clearly:
"I think that should be a wakeup call for our Republican party," said Williams. "We don't need to be running campaigns based on cartoon characterizations and get back to the days of Ronald Reagan, when we were treated with respect.
"People could care less who I voted for, for speaker. People are tired of partisan politics and want candidates who stick with their values and watch out for their interests."
Speaker Naifeh himself brushed off the tactic: "I think maybe that has run its course and they won't be using that anymore," he said.And why doesn't it work? I guess the better question is, "Why would it?" In an election that drew very little media attention, an election in which few people voted, it's a stretch to expect most voters throughout the State to be fired up about the Speaker of the House when they may not even know who is running in their own district.
Public defender dies in motorcycle accident
Metro Public Defender Ross Alderman has died in a motorcycle accident, according to the Tennessean.
He last won election to the post in 2006. The office's website includes biographical information about him and the office's accomplishments.
Please, keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.
He last won election to the post in 2006. The office's website includes biographical information about him and the office's accomplishments.
Please, keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.
Bridging the liberal-orthodox divide
The Rev. Gail Seavey, minister of First Unitarian Universalist in Nashville, discusses the tragic shooting at Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church in Knoxville. She mentions the 2006 marriage summit at First UU, which equipped Unitarians across the state to get involved in the Tennessee Equality Project's Vote No on 1 campaign.
She also mentions some of the bridge building that occurred across the liberal-orthodox divide:
We were grateful, but not surprised by the respectful support the Knoxville police and about 40 mental health institutions have given. But I confess, I was surprised by the outpouring of food, sanctuary, love and public support from the Knoxville religious community, liberal and orthodox.
She also mentions some of the bridge building that occurred across the liberal-orthodox divide:
We were grateful, but not surprised by the respectful support the Knoxville police and about 40 mental health institutions have given. But I confess, I was surprised by the outpouring of food, sanctuary, love and public support from the Knoxville religious community, liberal and orthodox.
Noose found at Chattanooga Blue Cross Blue Shield site
A noose has been discovered at a Chattanooga Blue Cross Blue Shield workplace in Chattanooga. The FBI is investigating the incident and trying to determine whether it constitutes a hate crime. It occurred the same day four workers became ill, but so far the noose and the illnesses don't appear related.
The story mentions that it is a building site and that employees of Skanska, a construction firm with a presence in Nashville, had been there and were to report back for work on Monday. Even though the illnesses don't seem to be related to the noose, I wonder whether the crew was targeted.
It has been a tough summer for hate issues in Tennessee. In June, there was a cross burning in Scott County. Revelations of a February police beating of a transgender woman in Memphis came to light in June, closely followed by the murder of a transgender woman in July in the same city. And just two weeks ago what should have been a peaceful Sunday was ruptured by the attack at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church.
The story mentions that it is a building site and that employees of Skanska, a construction firm with a presence in Nashville, had been there and were to report back for work on Monday. Even though the illnesses don't seem to be related to the noose, I wonder whether the crew was targeted.
It has been a tough summer for hate issues in Tennessee. In June, there was a cross burning in Scott County. Revelations of a February police beating of a transgender woman in Memphis came to light in June, closely followed by the murder of a transgender woman in July in the same city. And just two weeks ago what should have been a peaceful Sunday was ruptured by the attack at the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church.
Friday, August 8, 2008
When is a sex scandal a political story?
I don't feel the need to mention the names of any of the characters in these dramas because they are being portrayed as just that--characters. And apart from endorsing Coriolanus for Consul, TEP doesn't find theatre criticism to be our forte.
Generally, these sex scandals are political stories accidentally and not essentially. You Thomists and Aristotelians out there will get the distinction. But our media culture isn't very interested in questions of being, only questions of what a story can become. As a result, sex scandals involving politicians always become political. The story breaks and we wait for the political fallout. By God, if it's not a political question to begin with, we know how to make it one. We ask the following questions: Can the accused be a viable candidate again? Can she speak at a political event? Do other politicians have to distance themselves from him?
Here's when it is a political story--if the politician broke the law (prostitution) or used public funds or position to advance a love interest. Also, if the politician caught with his or her pants down has droned on and on about the sanctity of marriage and advances policy that restricts the definition of marriage and family, then that's probably a story. But even then, not in every case. Questions about hypocrisy as they relate to policy can be instructive, but they are not final. At some level, policy has to be advanced on its merits. Hypocritical personal rhetoric is only enough to throw the policy into question, not enough to stop the debate.
More than a few preachers and politicians fighting marriage equality have played around outside marriage. But exposing them all is never going to be enough to get legislatures around the country to adopt same-sex marriage. Lawmakers and the public are going to have to get comfortable with the idea and be convinced that it's the right thing to do. Putting your opponents in the penalty box gets you a few points and buys you time, but it doesn't win the game. Both sides in our public debates ought to consider well before they crow too loudly about these family matters.
I remember vividly when one former lawmaker in Tennessee who worked for the marriage amendment in the Legislature was having a marital crisis. Reporters wanted us to take his guts out. It wouldn't have gotten us anywhere with the amendment. We would have looked vengeful and become just another group of characters in a drama of destruction.
Generally, these sex scandals are political stories accidentally and not essentially. You Thomists and Aristotelians out there will get the distinction. But our media culture isn't very interested in questions of being, only questions of what a story can become. As a result, sex scandals involving politicians always become political. The story breaks and we wait for the political fallout. By God, if it's not a political question to begin with, we know how to make it one. We ask the following questions: Can the accused be a viable candidate again? Can she speak at a political event? Do other politicians have to distance themselves from him?
Here's when it is a political story--if the politician broke the law (prostitution) or used public funds or position to advance a love interest. Also, if the politician caught with his or her pants down has droned on and on about the sanctity of marriage and advances policy that restricts the definition of marriage and family, then that's probably a story. But even then, not in every case. Questions about hypocrisy as they relate to policy can be instructive, but they are not final. At some level, policy has to be advanced on its merits. Hypocritical personal rhetoric is only enough to throw the policy into question, not enough to stop the debate.
More than a few preachers and politicians fighting marriage equality have played around outside marriage. But exposing them all is never going to be enough to get legislatures around the country to adopt same-sex marriage. Lawmakers and the public are going to have to get comfortable with the idea and be convinced that it's the right thing to do. Putting your opponents in the penalty box gets you a few points and buys you time, but it doesn't win the game. Both sides in our public debates ought to consider well before they crow too loudly about these family matters.
I remember vividly when one former lawmaker in Tennessee who worked for the marriage amendment in the Legislature was having a marital crisis. Reporters wanted us to take his guts out. It wouldn't have gotten us anywhere with the amendment. We would have looked vengeful and become just another group of characters in a drama of destruction.
Steve Cohen triumphs, but Memphis is the real winner
While TEP focuses mainly on local and state politics, I can't help but take a moment to recognize the significance of Congressman Steve Cohen's win in the 9th District Democratic Primary race. As many already know, the campaign got really ugly in the last week with race-baiting and anti-Semitic television ads from the Tinker campaign. So ugly that Tinker supporters like Emily's List and Harold Ford, Jr. publicly repudiated Tinker's tactics in the campaign's last hours.
Cohen offered these words of reflection at his victory party last night:
It says Memphis has come a long, long way and that people who were counting on racial voting to prevail are thinking of a Memphis that doesn't exist anymore. . . . The people of Memphis are more sophisticated voters that deal with issues and someone's record and not simply race.
Memphis, Tennessee has shown CNN and The New York Times and MSNBC and everyone else that we are united, we are moving forward and we are a bellwether for what is going to happen in America when Barack Obama is elected president.
As racially divided as Memphis can be, we can all take pride in the wisdom of Memphis voters. This election outcome may herald a new day in government and politics.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Gresham wins close victory, will face Camp in November
From the Commercial Appeal:
In a local state Senate primary, Rep. Dolores Gresham, 66, of Somerville won a tough challenge against two Republican opponents for the District 26 senate seat vacated by former Senate Speaker John Wilder.
With all precincts reporting, Gresham collected 4,899 votes, or 38 percent just ahead of Bob Shutt's 4,797 votes, or 37 percent. Tim Linder had 2,949 votes, or 23 percent.
Steine Resolution passes 25 to 8
Councilman Ronnie Steine's resolution requesting voters not sign the English-only petition and not vote for the ballot measure passed 25 to 8, but not before a little procedural drama. Councilman Foster, while disliking the language of Councilman Crafton's ballot measure, dislikes even more telling voters how to vote. So he not only spoke against the Steine resolution, but he moved to defer it. Steine countered with a tabling motion, which handily disposed of the resolution to defer. It passed 23 to 11.
More later.
10:24 p.m. And we're back. What surprised me was how small the crowd was. Three of us from TEP were there observing. Leaders of the Hispanic community were in attendance, but not in large numbers. The citizens on both sides must be saving their powder for the ballot measure. Council members Steine, Holleman, Barry, and Maynard spoke in favor of the resolution. Steine's first speech got quite a bit of applause, a reaction that also greeted passage of the resolution.
Voting in favor were Garrett, Barry, Tygard, Steine, Maynard, Matthews, Hunt, Murray, Jameson, Coke, Forkum, Ryman, Burch, Page, Moore, Durbin, Gilmore, Langster, Evans, Holleman, McGuire, Toler, Coleman, Todd, and Mitchell.
Voting against were Craddock, Bennett, Gotto, Claiborne, Baker, Crafton, Dominy, and Duvall.
Abstaining were Foster and Wilhoite.
Absent members were Harrison, Jernigan, Stanley, Adkins, and Hodge.
More later.
10:24 p.m. And we're back. What surprised me was how small the crowd was. Three of us from TEP were there observing. Leaders of the Hispanic community were in attendance, but not in large numbers. The citizens on both sides must be saving their powder for the ballot measure. Council members Steine, Holleman, Barry, and Maynard spoke in favor of the resolution. Steine's first speech got quite a bit of applause, a reaction that also greeted passage of the resolution.
Voting in favor were Garrett, Barry, Tygard, Steine, Maynard, Matthews, Hunt, Murray, Jameson, Coke, Forkum, Ryman, Burch, Page, Moore, Durbin, Gilmore, Langster, Evans, Holleman, McGuire, Toler, Coleman, Todd, and Mitchell.
Voting against were Craddock, Bennett, Gotto, Claiborne, Baker, Crafton, Dominy, and Duvall.
Abstaining were Foster and Wilhoite.
Absent members were Harrison, Jernigan, Stanley, Adkins, and Hodge.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Shock and Naw
The folks at Emily's List are shocked by Nikki Tinker's campaign ads in the 9th District congressional race. You never know what your money's going to do when you turn it loose.
But at least they are distancing themselves from the ads. According to Mr. Kleinheider, not everyone has spoken up yet.
But at least they are distancing themselves from the ads. According to Mr. Kleinheider, not everyone has spoken up yet.
The Germans aren't the only ones coming to Chattanooga
The Latino population is growing quickly in the Chattanooga area:
According to 2007 population estimates released this morning, the Hispanic population of Hamilton County and the surrounding 20 counties has grown almost 60 percent since 2000, compared to 5 percent growth in non-Hispanic groups.
Here's how the region is adapting:
According to 2007 population estimates released this morning, the Hispanic population of Hamilton County and the surrounding 20 counties has grown almost 60 percent since 2000, compared to 5 percent growth in non-Hispanic groups.
Here's how the region is adapting:
Responding to that trend, Erlanger [Health System] has introduced bilingual patient guides, patient’s rights forms and elevator signs, as well as adding interpreters to the staff, she said.
Other organizations and institutions are addressing the Hispanic growth as well, according to Ms. [Mirtha] Jones [director of Plaza Comunitaria].
“Nearly everywhere you go the signs are bilingual,” she said. “It’s more visible than it was five years ago.”
Dr. [Douglas] Bachtel [a demographer at the University of Georgia] said churches, public safety departments and businesses eventually must take notice of growing Hispanic populations. Law enforcement agencies across the South are recruiting Spanish-speaking officers, and many churches offer Spanish services or ministries, he said.
No mention of English-only ballot measures.City Council resolution calls for audit of Memphis Police Department
In response to the police beating of transgender detainee Duanna Johnson, the Public Safety & Homeland Security Committee of the Memphis City Council approved a resolution calling for an investigation by the Internal Audit Department. The audit will review Memphis Police Department policies, procedures and the citizen complaint process.
The full council will likely vote on the resolution at its August 19 meeting. See WMCTV5 for more details.
The full council will likely vote on the resolution at its August 19 meeting. See WMCTV5 for more details.
Chair of Memphis City Council Resigns
City Council Chairman Scott McCormick announced that he will resign his position to become executive director of the Plough Foundation. McCormick was one of the few returning members of the previous City Council term that included two resignations from ethics scandals and criminal prosections. McCormick sought censure of then council members Rickey Peete and Edmund Ford, Senior after the two were charged in Operation Main Street Sweeper.The City Council will appoint an interim replacement that will hold the seat until Memphians in Superdistrict 9 elect a new council member for Position 1 on November 4th. More on the story here and here.
Many of the following candidates who live in Superdistrict 9 and placed well in last year's council elections may decide to run for the open seat:
- Desi Franklin and Mary Wilder who placed second and third, respectively, to Reid Hedgpeth in Superdistrict 9, Pos. 3.
- Brian Stephens who placed a close second to Bill Boyd in District 2 (inside Superdistrict 9).
- Kemp Conrad and Joe Saino who placed second and third, respectively, in the Superdistrict 9, Pos. 2 race to Shea Flinn.
Carol Chumney who ran for City Mayor and formerly represented City Council District 5 and State House District 89 may also decide to run for re-election to the council.
Conservative is the word in Rutherford County
Just about everyone running for Legislature in Rutherford County is trying to claim the conservative mantle. That's what the quotations from the Daily News Journal would indicate. The paper talked to several of them at a candidate forum at the Rockvale Community Center on Monday.
Joe Carr, a Republican running for House District 48, is fiscally conservative and the same goes on moral issues. But he also wants term limits. "We need term limits in the Legislature," he said. "Almost 90 percent of incumbents out there keep getting re-elected because they use their money and power at the Legislature to help with their campaigns." Never mind that the voters picked them.
Jon Jaques, one of his primary opponents, thinks there's something to the fact that the "budget has grown four times faster than personal income." Even if that's true, I'm not sure what the connection is. In terms of immigration, "The problem is that we don't know who the people in our county are," he pointed out. I'd never thought of it that way...just like the budget analogy.
If Democrat Rick Parks is a conservative, the paper didn't note it. His wife, Lisa, was at the event, since Mr. Parks was working at the Fire Department at the time. She said her husband understands the needs of working families and knows what it is like to live paycheck to paycheck. Moreover, she said Rutherford County is a place Rick Parks is "proud to call home." Not much to argue with there.
Democrat Tim Tipps believes a power higher than the Speaker will be of help if he gets elected: his faith in God will help guide him to the House. But he also talked about the budget that was on everyone's mind, "We've got to deal with the economy and be fiscally conservative," Tipps said.
Republican Lou Ann Zelenik is running against the Governor. She criticized money being spent on the governor's mansion, "including an underground party room which is not a necessity," while "MTSU needs a new science building." No one asked whether she'd support a science wing of the Governor's mansion and an underground party room at MTSU. Someone ought to poll the students on that. I'll give her credit, though. Of all the Republicans running against the Governor from whom I've seen comment, she actually picks a vulnerable point of attack.
Joe Carr, a Republican running for House District 48, is fiscally conservative and the same goes on moral issues. But he also wants term limits. "We need term limits in the Legislature," he said. "Almost 90 percent of incumbents out there keep getting re-elected because they use their money and power at the Legislature to help with their campaigns." Never mind that the voters picked them.
Jon Jaques, one of his primary opponents, thinks there's something to the fact that the "budget has grown four times faster than personal income." Even if that's true, I'm not sure what the connection is. In terms of immigration, "The problem is that we don't know who the people in our county are," he pointed out. I'd never thought of it that way...just like the budget analogy.
If Democrat Rick Parks is a conservative, the paper didn't note it. His wife, Lisa, was at the event, since Mr. Parks was working at the Fire Department at the time. She said her husband understands the needs of working families and knows what it is like to live paycheck to paycheck. Moreover, she said Rutherford County is a place Rick Parks is "proud to call home." Not much to argue with there.
Democrat Tim Tipps believes a power higher than the Speaker will be of help if he gets elected: his faith in God will help guide him to the House. But he also talked about the budget that was on everyone's mind, "We've got to deal with the economy and be fiscally conservative," Tipps said.
Republican Lou Ann Zelenik is running against the Governor. She criticized money being spent on the governor's mansion, "including an underground party room which is not a necessity," while "MTSU needs a new science building." No one asked whether she'd support a science wing of the Governor's mansion and an underground party room at MTSU. Someone ought to poll the students on that. I'll give her credit, though. Of all the Republicans running against the Governor from whom I've seen comment, she actually picks a vulnerable point of attack.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Down right Outright Libertarians!
Outright Libertarians, the GLBT division of the Libertarian party, has started a Nashville area provisional chapter. From their press release:
Unlike our friends in the Stonewall Democrats and Log Cabin Republicans, Outright Libertarians have broad based support in the our party and need not fight for basic recognition of our equal status in society. In the Libertarian Party, GLBTQ individuals start with the assumption of equal status and equality under the law.
In contrast to other parties, the Libertarian Party has included sexual rights, including equal marriage and adoption, equal military service, and the end of sodomy laws, ever since its first national platform in 1972. We're very happy with our party and its platform, our main job is to reach out to the LGBT community to explain why Libertarians offer better solutions to our community than any of the other political parties.
Alternative Energy Suggestions from Democratic Candidates in Senate race
There are three major Democratic candidates hoping to unseat incumbent Senator Lamar Alexander in November. Aside from the positions they might hold on LGBT issues, I am always interested hearing candidates' ideas for alternative energy resources. Before I entered social work and mental heath as a profession, I worked for the oil and gas industry in Texas and New Mexico for a year with degrees in geology. One of the reasons I left the industry is that I really did not want to be part of a corporation that wasn't addressing our nation's need to convert to greener energy resources.
In today's Commercial Appeal, at least two the Democratic candidates for Senate have some interesting ideas for alternative energies in West Tennessee:
I really think that growing high-yield energy producing crops like corn and switchgrass on agricultural land that could be used to grow food is short-sighted. Ultimately we use more energy just to harvest and produce such crops. I do like the idea of embracing more solar and wind power. Democrats and Republicans also need to get on board with building more nuclear power plants in our country. Nuclear power is not renewable, but it certainly leaves the air a lot cleaner than fossil fuels. Nuclear technology is safer than it used to be. We just need to convince Nevadans that they will just have to bite the bullet and store the nuclear waste that results from power production at the long-studied Yucca Mountain facility.
In today's Commercial Appeal, at least two the Democratic candidates for Senate have some interesting ideas for alternative energies in West Tennessee:
[Mike] Padgett said Memphis "has a great workforce and the platform I stand on is bringing jobs there. We don't need to bring windmills to Memphis but we need to bring windmill manufacturers -- and manufacturing jobs for solar power.
"I think this new biological strand of highly cellulosic sugar cane -- once that develops as a renewable source of energy -- I think that's going to be the next cotton crop for the region around Memphis."
[Bob] Tuke said the city can build itself as alternative energy manufacturing center, using Sharp's Memphis plant and its production of photovoltaic cells for the solar power industry as a model. "One thing we're going to do for sure is focus attention and tax credits on solar and wind energy. With Sharp already having a major role in solar energy, that can be a big focus for Memphis."The other thing I think we need to focus on for Memphis is the now-commercialized cellulosic ethanol production." He said land in West Tennessee that is marginal for other farming is ideal for switchgrass and black cottonwood trees in ethanol production. "And a refinery can be built east of Memphis that will benefit from that and be a boon to the city, especially with the river and pipelines and the potential for shipping ethanol.
I really think that growing high-yield energy producing crops like corn and switchgrass on agricultural land that could be used to grow food is short-sighted. Ultimately we use more energy just to harvest and produce such crops. I do like the idea of embracing more solar and wind power. Democrats and Republicans also need to get on board with building more nuclear power plants in our country. Nuclear power is not renewable, but it certainly leaves the air a lot cleaner than fossil fuels. Nuclear technology is safer than it used to be. We just need to convince Nevadans that they will just have to bite the bullet and store the nuclear waste that results from power production at the long-studied Yucca Mountain facility.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Alexander Solzhenitsyn passes
Russian author, dissident, critic, and survivor Alexander Solzhenitsyn has died at 89. Most famous in the West for The Gulag Archipelago, which I read in amazement years ago, Solzhenitsyn's documentation of the evils of Soviet forced labor camps ultimately helped bring down the Communist regime.
A giant of human rights, he was paradoxically a critic of the West, too. And he saw it up close from his time in Switzerland and Vermont before he returned to Russia in 1994.
As a young man, he embraced Marxism, but the operationalization of its Soviet version was more than enough to provoke a lifelong repentance and embrace of Orthodox Christianity. In old age, he looked like a Russian holy man and was something of a staretz with few disciples in the 1990s. The Telegraph explains:
In 1990 he published a 16,000-word manifesto, entitled Rebuilding Russia, in which he advocated a return to a monarchic nation, "one and indivisible", with the emphasis on stern local government, by pre-Revolutionary-style zemstvos. With the "alien" Central Asian Muslim states cast off, there was to be a central role for the Orthodox Church. A democratically elected leadership, maintained the dissident, was not really desirable.
Solzhenitsyn will long be a hero to the West for showing the power of words and ideas to undo tyranny. His use of the same tools to build up authority will continue to confound and perplex us. But he reminds us of the mystery of Russian particularity, and that's a good lesson as Russia regains its footing in the world.
Memory Eternal, Alexander!
A giant of human rights, he was paradoxically a critic of the West, too. And he saw it up close from his time in Switzerland and Vermont before he returned to Russia in 1994.
As a young man, he embraced Marxism, but the operationalization of its Soviet version was more than enough to provoke a lifelong repentance and embrace of Orthodox Christianity. In old age, he looked like a Russian holy man and was something of a staretz with few disciples in the 1990s. The Telegraph explains:
In 1990 he published a 16,000-word manifesto, entitled Rebuilding Russia, in which he advocated a return to a monarchic nation, "one and indivisible", with the emphasis on stern local government, by pre-Revolutionary-style zemstvos. With the "alien" Central Asian Muslim states cast off, there was to be a central role for the Orthodox Church. A democratically elected leadership, maintained the dissident, was not really desirable.
Solzhenitsyn will long be a hero to the West for showing the power of words and ideas to undo tyranny. His use of the same tools to build up authority will continue to confound and perplex us. But he reminds us of the mystery of Russian particularity, and that's a good lesson as Russia regains its footing in the world.
Memory Eternal, Alexander!
Campfield vs. Williams
Rep. Kent Williams (R-Elizabethton) is supporting Ron Leadbetter in the Republican primary against Rep. Stacey Campfield (R-Knoxville) with a check and quotation that appeared in a Leadbetter mailer, according to Tom Humphrey. There's been plenty of name-calling back and forth (in print and online, at least) between Williams and Campfield. Campfield attacks the conservative credentials of Williams, while Williams considers Campfield's legislative moves juvenile.
Rep. Campfield believes that the support of Williams for Leadbetter will actually help him:
"It just shows you who the conservative is in this race and who is going to support conservative ideals," said Campfield in an interview.
Ron Leadbetter isn't having any of that, though:
"Stacey and I don't have any major differences on big issues," Leadbetter said, but "the way we deal with people is dramatically different."
Leadbetter's website, which is basically a resume and a donation portal, doesn't mention his opponents in the race. Rep. Campfield's blog discusses the article and the controversy.
Rep. Campfield believes that the support of Williams for Leadbetter will actually help him:
"It just shows you who the conservative is in this race and who is going to support conservative ideals," said Campfield in an interview.
Ron Leadbetter isn't having any of that, though:
"Stacey and I don't have any major differences on big issues," Leadbetter said, but "the way we deal with people is dramatically different."
Leadbetter's website, which is basically a resume and a donation portal, doesn't mention his opponents in the race. Rep. Campfield's blog discusses the article and the controversy.
Pelosi wants Edwards for VP (no, not that Edwards)
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi gushes about Texas Congressman Chet Edwards on ABC's This Week:
Pelosi told ABC’s "This Week" that “for years, our colleagues have said to him, why don't you run for president? He is an extraordinarily talented person. He is a champion for veterans in the Congress. Under his leadership, we have passed, including just on Friday, the biggest increase in funding for veterans' health benefits and other benefits in the history of our country."
Edwards doesn't appear to be well known in Tennessee. I only found one contribution of $500 or above in the last few election cycles. While Tennesseans may not know him, Wal-Mart does. Despite the recent controversy about how their leaders may or may not be telling employees how to vote, Wal-Mart has given him $10,000.
Pelosi told ABC’s "This Week" that “for years, our colleagues have said to him, why don't you run for president? He is an extraordinarily talented person. He is a champion for veterans in the Congress. Under his leadership, we have passed, including just on Friday, the biggest increase in funding for veterans' health benefits and other benefits in the history of our country."
Edwards doesn't appear to be well known in Tennessee. I only found one contribution of $500 or above in the last few election cycles. While Tennesseans may not know him, Wal-Mart does. Despite the recent controversy about how their leaders may or may not be telling employees how to vote, Wal-Mart has given him $10,000.
Early voting turnout low around the state
That's what they're saying in Hamilton County. Just over 8000 took advantage of the opportunity. Low turnout in Knox County also seemed to be on the minds of the editors of the Knoxville News Sentinel as they wrote in yesterday's editorial about the last chance to vote early. In Madison County (Jackson), just under 3000 people had voted early. As of Wednesday, fewer than 1500 had voted in Putnam County (Cookeville). Fewer than 2700 had voted in Rutherford County by the same date. There was a "spike" in early voting in Shelby County on Wednesday, but only 3.5 percent of the county's voters had turned out by the end of the day Wednesday.
When I voted in Davidson County on Thursday, there were more people holding signs for candidates than there were voters.
The reason typically cited is the lack of hotly contested county-wide races around the state. One certainly cannot blame the candidates. In Davidson County, the school board candidates have worked hard at getting their message out. And I think the same is true in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. With many incumbents not seeking reelection in the Legislature, there were more than the usual number of competitive Republican and Democratic primaries--Rutherford County being a prime example. The Democratic primary in the 9th congressional district has also been lively.
But I think the media is ignoring its own lack of coverage of the election as part of the problem. Part of citizenship is finding out for yourself what is at stake in an election. But that's also the responsibility of the media, particularly the leading the newspapers in the state.
When I voted in Davidson County on Thursday, there were more people holding signs for candidates than there were voters.
The reason typically cited is the lack of hotly contested county-wide races around the state. One certainly cannot blame the candidates. In Davidson County, the school board candidates have worked hard at getting their message out. And I think the same is true in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. With many incumbents not seeking reelection in the Legislature, there were more than the usual number of competitive Republican and Democratic primaries--Rutherford County being a prime example. The Democratic primary in the 9th congressional district has also been lively.
But I think the media is ignoring its own lack of coverage of the election as part of the problem. Part of citizenship is finding out for yourself what is at stake in an election. But that's also the responsibility of the media, particularly the leading the newspapers in the state.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Messages matter
Wayne Besen has an interesting column on the subject of hate speech. He compares the desires of social conservatives to shut out speech about GLBT people and the harsh rhetoric leveled at liberals on cable and talk radio as a way of tracking the power of media messages. Can social conservatives have it both ways? In other words, how can they say discussion about GLBT issues in the media "promotes" homosexuality (which means the media have power) while simultaneously denying that their own hateful rhetoric influences tragedies like the one at Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church?
What I find hypocritical is that the Religious Right will take any image it deems gay and claim it “promotes homosexuality.” This even extends to fictional characters such as Tinky Winky and Sponge Bob Square Pants. Yet, these same oversensitive preachers refuse to acknowledge that their mean-spirited sermons might lead to violence.
What I find hypocritical is that the Religious Right will take any image it deems gay and claim it “promotes homosexuality.” This even extends to fictional characters such as Tinky Winky and Sponge Bob Square Pants. Yet, these same oversensitive preachers refuse to acknowledge that their mean-spirited sermons might lead to violence.
Safe to be a liberal? Knoxville News Sentinel looks at the discussion
A good set of questions are raised at the Knoxville News Sentinel's site about the connection between the coarsening of public rhetoric and the tragic shooting at Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church. There is also a good set of links to editorials, videos, and blogs about the subject.
See also David Waters' blog at Washington Post.
See also David Waters' blog at Washington Post.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Eaton and Alexander respond to Knoxville Church shooting (updated)
Since the original post, Senator Alexander has responded via Lee Pitts, his press secretary. This statement is to be attributed to Mr. Pitts:
Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate Kenneth Eaton has responded to my questions about the attack on the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church and the Matthew Shepard Act. The last part of his answer may be similar to the feelings of Bob Tuke, whose campaign has not returned my email asking him if he has a statement. But, like I said, the campaign hasn't returned my email, so it's impossible to know. Here is Mr. Eaton's email response in full, which he gave permission to be posted:
“Senator Alexander was deeply saddened by last Sunday’s events. His thoughts and prayers are with the families, children and community affected by this tragedy."
Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate Kenneth Eaton has responded to my questions about the attack on the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church and the Matthew Shepard Act. The last part of his answer may be similar to the feelings of Bob Tuke, whose campaign has not returned my email asking him if he has a statement. But, like I said, the campaign hasn't returned my email, so it's impossible to know. Here is Mr. Eaton's email response in full, which he gave permission to be posted:
I do support the Matthew Shepard Act.
No matter your ideology, what happened in Knoxville is disheartening, and inexplicable. This is such a tragedy, our hearts and prayers go out to everyone involved, but my campaign is not going to use it for political gain.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Eaton
Conservatives draw on core values in response to Knoxville Church shooting
Greg Johnson has a thoughtful piece in today's Knoxville News Sentinel that discusses conservative responses to the tragic shooting at Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church. He notes that many conservatives in East Tennessee have been "jarred" by the apparent anti-liberal motives of the shooter as well as the debate over the influence of prominent conservative authors. Johnson's column is part of the healing process, just as First Baptist Church's decision to host a prayer service for the Knoxville community. Regardless of whether there is agreement about the policy implications of this tragic event, it is helpful to have an honest dialogue that squarely confronts the questions. Johnson does so poignantly. In his own words:
Some prominent East Tennessee conservatives were wrestling with the question when I spoke to them earlier this week. One noted that a core conservative value is the sanctity of human life. Another spoke of the worth of the individual being a fundamental conservative concept. Both spoke of the need for vigorous yet civil and peaceful debate of important issues.
But some conservative commentators, especially those selling books or ad slots on television or radio, go too far to shock and awe. Our culture - from Hollywood to online communities to cable television to talk radio - has coarsened. Too many on both sides of the political aisle have forsaken dialogue and debate for diatribes.
By some accounts, the suspect despised those different from him, be they liberals, blacks or gays. Though the community has started down the road of healing, our differences will remain. Debate will - and should - continue. Regardless of ideology, though, one timeless truth will still apply: "In the essentials, unity. In the nonessentials, liberty. In all things, charity."
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