(embedding for this video no longer available. Click here to view it)
I went asleep last night, tired from the fight. I've been fightin for tomorrow, all my life. Ya, I woke up this mornin, feelin brand new, cuz the dreams that I've been dreamin have finally came true. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day.
It's been a long time comin. Up the mountain kept runnin. Songs of freedom kept hummin. Channeling Harriet Tubman. Kennedy, Lincoln, and King, we gotta manifest that dream. It feels like we're swimmin up stream. It feels like I'm stuck in between a rock and a hard place. We've been through the heart aches and looked through the darkest days. You and I made it this far, well hey hey, we can make it all the way. And they said no we can't and we said yes we can.
Remember it's you and me together.
I woke up this mornin feelin alright. I've been fightin for tommorow all my life. Ya I woke up this mornin feelin brand new cuz the dreams that I've been dreamin has finally came true. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day.
It's been a long time waitin. Waitin for this moment. It's been a long time prayin. Prayin for this moment. We hope for this moment and now that we own it, for my life I'm a hold it and I won't let it go.
This is for our fathers, our brothers, our friends who fought for freedom. Our sisters, our mothers who died for us to be in this moment. Stop and cherish this moment. Stop and cherish this time.
It's time for unity for and us and we. That's you and me together.
I woke up this mornin feelin brand new cuz dreams that I've been dreamin finally came true. Ya, I woke up this mornin feelin alright cuz we weren't fightin for nothin. And the soilders weren't fightin for nothin. No Martin wasn't dreamin for nothin. And Lincoln didn't change for nothin. And children weren't cryin for nothin.
It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day. It's a new day.
by will.i.iam from the Black Eyed Peas
Showing posts with label indecision 2008. Show all posts
Showing posts with label indecision 2008. Show all posts
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Forty Four
"If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer."
Elation. Pride. Hope. Jubilation.
Last night we watched history being made. We kept Alexander up through President Elect Obama's speech and although he was a crank pot this morning, I do not regret it.
I am saddened when I read my McCain supporter friend's posts about their sorrow and fear and I understand it. I understand it as I felt the exact same way 8, but most intensely 4 years ago on election night. I couldn't understand then, when I could so clearly see the writing on the wall, why so many of my fellow Americans voted for our current administration. When I read reactions from friends who warn that we'll get what we've asked for and God help us, I understand. I know how that feels because I could have written similar things in 2004. So I do feel for those who are unhappy today.
This blog is very much an electronic family album and record of our lives. After thinking about it for a long time, I've decided that I would write about last night, despite the reaction of some of my friends and family who voted differently than I did and I trust they will understand.
So, I unapologetically, unabashedly, with great joy and laughter through tears, celebrate this day. I celebrate the great hope and inspiration that this brings to our country. This is nothing short of the restoration of the American Dream. I cannot even begin to imagine the pride that must belong to African Americans this day. I join with those in London, France, South Africa and other places around the world who, regardless of the fact that it was in the middle of the night or very early morning, screamed and smiled and cheered the result of this exercise in American democracy.
The world reacts to Obama’s win
I was very impressed with John McCain last night. His speech was so gracious and it reminded me of the politician I remember before the election process. He did a wonderful job and I was proud of him.
When President Elect Barack Obama spoke, I was moved to tears. Now, I do not agree with 100% of his positions and plan to hold his feet to the fire as much as any Momologist can. I will join others' voices who demand that he do better for our country than the state of IL has done for our loved ones with special needs. Certainly, there will be issues that we will differ on, but for now I am sold, hook, line, and sinker. I wish so badly that I could have been in Grant Park last night.
Johannesburg - Anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela congratulated US president elect Barack Obama on his victory on Wednesday, saying he was an inspiration to people all over the world.
"Your victory has demonstrated that no person anywhere in the world should not dare to dream of wanting to change the world for a better place," Mandela said in a letter to Obama. "We note and applaud your commitment to supporting the cause of peace and security around the world. We trust that you will also make it the mission of your presidency to combat the scourge of poverty and disease everywhere. "We wish you strength and fortitude in the challenging days and years that lie ahead. We are sure you will ultimately achieve your dream making the United States of America a full partner in a community of nations committed to peace and prosperity for all," said Mandela.
As much for my own record as anything else, here are a few video clips that I've greatly enjoyed.
The Daily Show
Oprah
Elation. Pride. Hope. Jubilation.
Last night we watched history being made. We kept Alexander up through President Elect Obama's speech and although he was a crank pot this morning, I do not regret it.
I am saddened when I read my McCain supporter friend's posts about their sorrow and fear and I understand it. I understand it as I felt the exact same way 8, but most intensely 4 years ago on election night. I couldn't understand then, when I could so clearly see the writing on the wall, why so many of my fellow Americans voted for our current administration. When I read reactions from friends who warn that we'll get what we've asked for and God help us, I understand. I know how that feels because I could have written similar things in 2004. So I do feel for those who are unhappy today.
This blog is very much an electronic family album and record of our lives. After thinking about it for a long time, I've decided that I would write about last night, despite the reaction of some of my friends and family who voted differently than I did and I trust they will understand.
So, I unapologetically, unabashedly, with great joy and laughter through tears, celebrate this day. I celebrate the great hope and inspiration that this brings to our country. This is nothing short of the restoration of the American Dream. I cannot even begin to imagine the pride that must belong to African Americans this day. I join with those in London, France, South Africa and other places around the world who, regardless of the fact that it was in the middle of the night or very early morning, screamed and smiled and cheered the result of this exercise in American democracy.
The world reacts to Obama’s win
I was very impressed with John McCain last night. His speech was so gracious and it reminded me of the politician I remember before the election process. He did a wonderful job and I was proud of him.
When President Elect Barack Obama spoke, I was moved to tears. Now, I do not agree with 100% of his positions and plan to hold his feet to the fire as much as any Momologist can. I will join others' voices who demand that he do better for our country than the state of IL has done for our loved ones with special needs. Certainly, there will be issues that we will differ on, but for now I am sold, hook, line, and sinker. I wish so badly that I could have been in Grant Park last night.
Johannesburg - Anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela congratulated US president elect Barack Obama on his victory on Wednesday, saying he was an inspiration to people all over the world.
"Your victory has demonstrated that no person anywhere in the world should not dare to dream of wanting to change the world for a better place," Mandela said in a letter to Obama. "We note and applaud your commitment to supporting the cause of peace and security around the world. We trust that you will also make it the mission of your presidency to combat the scourge of poverty and disease everywhere. "We wish you strength and fortitude in the challenging days and years that lie ahead. We are sure you will ultimately achieve your dream making the United States of America a full partner in a community of nations committed to peace and prosperity for all," said Mandela.
As much for my own record as anything else, here are a few video clips that I've greatly enjoyed.
The Daily Show
Oprah
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The Family Vote
I expected long lines, especially as we were voting at noon. We had lunch and lots of toys packed. When we arrived at our poling place, just 2 people were leaving, 1 person was voting ahead of us, and 4 more came while we were there. The staff were really sweet and said they already had 50% turn out for the location. They allowed us to show Alexander the voting booth and let him help us feed our ballots into the machine. He even got an I Voted sticker, though they wouldn't give him his own ballot.
Since we had lunch and the time, plus it was 74 degrees and gorgeous, we went to a park for a picnic. Mark and I both agreed that we were in the partying mood so we decided to make a really good meal for dinner. I cannot partake in his Sam Adams, but I am making twice baked potatoes and we're grilling steak and bison burgers tonight. I also picked up a yummy harvest (mixed berry) pie. mmmm
I've been particularly weepy lately and I think only some of it is due to pregnancy hormones. Today is a holiday in my house. Both kids are doing great. Sophie even has the tiniest and cutest pig tails in today. I hope Alexander can remember this day and if not, I've got pictures that they can both see when they get older. It's gorgeous out and the huge numbers that are flocking to the polls today and who voted early to participate in this democracy make me so proud of this country.
Since we had lunch and the time, plus it was 74 degrees and gorgeous, we went to a park for a picnic. Mark and I both agreed that we were in the partying mood so we decided to make a really good meal for dinner. I cannot partake in his Sam Adams, but I am making twice baked potatoes and we're grilling steak and bison burgers tonight. I also picked up a yummy harvest (mixed berry) pie. mmmm
I've been particularly weepy lately and I think only some of it is due to pregnancy hormones. Today is a holiday in my house. Both kids are doing great. Sophie even has the tiniest and cutest pig tails in today. I hope Alexander can remember this day and if not, I've got pictures that they can both see when they get older. It's gorgeous out and the huge numbers that are flocking to the polls today and who voted early to participate in this democracy make me so proud of this country.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Brokaw, McCain in My Hometown
Just a weird co-ink-e-dink. I turned on the tv a few minutes ago. We are staying at my sister's place in Waterloo, IA for a few days. Meet the Press came on and they announced that they were live from Waterloo, IA. I thought I was hearing things. Nope, there they are. Tom Brokaw and John McCain discussing poll numbers and election issues somewhere in the same little city I'm in. I wonder what studio exactly they are broadcasting from. KWWL perhaps?
Friday, October 24, 2008
Palin Speaks About Special Needs
Today Gov. Sarah Palin spoke in Pittsburgh about children and adults with special needs. It's a subject way to close to home not to mention, despite my personal opinions. (Text of the speech here).
An Obama campaign spokesperson responded: "Senator Obama has consistently been clear that he would not increase taxes on families making less than $250,000 a year," spokesman Sean Smith said in a statement. "John McCain's own health care plan would actually cut $1.3 trillion from Medicare and Medicaid that children with disabilities truly depend on, which makes this attack especially hypocritical."
I am blessed with friends who are liberal, conservative, moderate, independent, republican, democrat, pro-choice, and pro-life. We manage to get along quite well, despite some pretty big differences in opinion and political affiliations. So, for the sake of being informed, feel free to read the speech and leave a comment if you wish. Just please be nice if you do.
An Obama campaign spokesperson responded: "Senator Obama has consistently been clear that he would not increase taxes on families making less than $250,000 a year," spokesman Sean Smith said in a statement. "John McCain's own health care plan would actually cut $1.3 trillion from Medicare and Medicaid that children with disabilities truly depend on, which makes this attack especially hypocritical."
I am blessed with friends who are liberal, conservative, moderate, independent, republican, democrat, pro-choice, and pro-life. We manage to get along quite well, despite some pretty big differences in opinion and political affiliations. So, for the sake of being informed, feel free to read the speech and leave a comment if you wish. Just please be nice if you do.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
The Violence Against Women Act
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). October is also Down syndrome Awareness Month. Providing Awareness of both DV and Ds is of great importance to me both personally and professionally. Over the next month you'll be reading about all kinds of things. Some will be happy expressions of joy. Others will not.
And now, more information to think about...
Approximately 1,400 women a year – four every day – die in the United States as a result of domestic violence. And 132,000 women report that they have been victims of a rape or attempted rape, and it is estimated that an even greater number have been raped, but do not report it.
Joe Biden wrote and passed the landmark Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) which is the strongest legislation to date that criminalizes domestic violence and other forms of violence against women, provides victims with the support they deserve, and holds batterers accountable. Signed into law in 1994, the bill funds and helps communities, nonprofit organizations, and police combat domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
VAWA establishes a sexual assault services program and provides education grants to prevent domestic violence. Since VAWA was enacted, over 2,500 separate shelters, centers, and outreach offices have been established and the National Domestic Violence Hotline has received over 2 million calls. Shining a spotlight on this violence has resulted both in better supports for victims, and lowering the incident rate of domestic violence by 60%.
What Joe Biden did in writing VAWA, among many things, was to provide funds and expertise for training officers, prosecutors and judges across the country to better work these cases, and provide real help for victims who so desperately need hope. Bravo.
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides support to victims with disabilities. Although the original version of VAWA did not provide funding for victims with disabilities, the 2000 reauthorization authorized a grant program to provide education and technical assistance to service providers to better meet the needs of disabled victims of violence.
The 2005 reauthorization of VAWA further expanded coverage for disabled victims. The 2005 reauthorization:
· Expanded education, training, and services grant programs.
· Included added construction and personnel costs for shelters that serve disabled victims of domestic violence to the purpose areas that can receive VAWA funding.
· Focused on the development of collaborative relationships between victim service organizations and organizations that serve individuals with disabilities.
· Provided funding for the development of model programs that implement advocacy and intervention services within organizations servicing disabled individuals.
Although the Department of Justice authorized $10 million per year for FY 2007 through FY 2011, only $7.1 million was allocated for protections and services for disabled victims in FY 2007. The Campaign for Funding to End Domestic and Sexual Violence requests $10 million for FY 2008 and subsequent years to be allocated to serve victims with disabilities.
And now, more information to think about...
Approximately 1,400 women a year – four every day – die in the United States as a result of domestic violence. And 132,000 women report that they have been victims of a rape or attempted rape, and it is estimated that an even greater number have been raped, but do not report it.
Joe Biden wrote and passed the landmark Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) which is the strongest legislation to date that criminalizes domestic violence and other forms of violence against women, provides victims with the support they deserve, and holds batterers accountable. Signed into law in 1994, the bill funds and helps communities, nonprofit organizations, and police combat domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
VAWA establishes a sexual assault services program and provides education grants to prevent domestic violence. Since VAWA was enacted, over 2,500 separate shelters, centers, and outreach offices have been established and the National Domestic Violence Hotline has received over 2 million calls. Shining a spotlight on this violence has resulted both in better supports for victims, and lowering the incident rate of domestic violence by 60%.
What Joe Biden did in writing VAWA, among many things, was to provide funds and expertise for training officers, prosecutors and judges across the country to better work these cases, and provide real help for victims who so desperately need hope. Bravo.
The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides support to victims with disabilities. Although the original version of VAWA did not provide funding for victims with disabilities, the 2000 reauthorization authorized a grant program to provide education and technical assistance to service providers to better meet the needs of disabled victims of violence.
The 2005 reauthorization of VAWA further expanded coverage for disabled victims. The 2005 reauthorization:
· Expanded education, training, and services grant programs.
· Included added construction and personnel costs for shelters that serve disabled victims of domestic violence to the purpose areas that can receive VAWA funding.
· Focused on the development of collaborative relationships between victim service organizations and organizations that serve individuals with disabilities.
· Provided funding for the development of model programs that implement advocacy and intervention services within organizations servicing disabled individuals.
Although the Department of Justice authorized $10 million per year for FY 2007 through FY 2011, only $7.1 million was allocated for protections and services for disabled victims in FY 2007. The Campaign for Funding to End Domestic and Sexual Violence requests $10 million for FY 2008 and subsequent years to be allocated to serve victims with disabilities.
For more information or to get help, please contact:
The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE
The National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Friday, October 17, 2008
Candidates Charity Roast
NEW YORK (AFP) — The pitched battle for the White House briefly made way for good humor and a good cause as Barack Obama and John McCain traded jibes at a black-tie charity roast in New York. For the full length version of McCain and Obama's speeches (and I do recommend watching both), go to YouTube. Here's a little bit of the hilarity to wet your appetite. Folks, we all needed this laugh. Happy Friday everyone.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Candidates' Positions on Disability Issues
The following made for an interesting read this morning. This side-by-side comparison of the candidates' positions on disability-related issues is based on information found on the candidates' Web sites, the candidates' Senatorial Web sites and supplemented by other sources. OLRS neither supports nor opposes any political party or candidate for office. Information provided on this page is strictly for educational purposes only. Click here for 2008 Presidential Candidate Positions on Disability-related Issues Prepared by the Ohio Legal Rights Service, September 2008.
Friday, September 19, 2008
51 & Failing
I made my morning calls to Governor Rod R. Blagojevich, IL Senate President Emil Jones (though voice mail was full so I had to write my message in an email), and IL Speaker of the House Michael J. Madigan. I am a mad momma.
The State of Illinois is ranked dead last at 51 out of 50 states and Washington D.C. for how much funding is spent on developmental disabilities. We are 51 and Failing according to NAMI AND unbelievably falling even further behind.
In all their wisdom, the powers that be have cut $60.9 MILLION statewide in developmental disabilities services. For our local Developmental Services Center, its a whopping $300,000 in cuts. My family as been on a waiting list for Respite Care since December 2007 and were told it was a year long wait. I don't see it happening at all now.
Additionally, substance abuse services have received $55,000,000 in cuts and mental health services $35,600,000 in cuts according to Champaign County Mental Health Board and the Champaign County Board for Care and Treatment of Persons with a Developmental Disability. TRANSLATION: The State of IL is cutting off the lifeline for its citizens who are the most vulnerable. They THINK they are cutting funding to those without the ability to stand up and fight. They forgot about mama and papa bears.
At the Public Forum 2 nights ago I heard consumers, staff, and parents get up and speak about how these cuts to an already despicable budget will affect them. I heard about how the local DV and Rape Crisis Center will be pushed back to funding levels of 6 years ago. A staff member asked which child victim of sexual assault they should turn away from their door, one who is raped today or one who took a few years to find the courage to come forward? Substance abuse programs are in danger of locking their doors. Detox services will be gone.
I was not prepared for how emotional this forum would be. As I heard a mother describe her fears of what will happen to her child who has developmental disabilities after she is gone from this earth, I cried. I don't normally let myself think those thoughts about Sophie's life after Mark and I are gone. She said, 'it's horrible for parents to pray that we live only 1 day longer than our children with a DD' and my stomach lurched, my heart pierced with pain. Services are already years long, especially for our kids who grow up and commit the "crime" of turning 21. Group homes, work programs all at risk.
Two recovering addicts spoke and their words really affected me. Detox saved 'him.' Take detox programs away and the state will pay for 'him' anyway when he ends up in prison and it will be much more expensive. It's true. Cuts to these services won't make the expense go away. It just transfers them to the ER, the prisons, and the morgue. The other speaker suggested that we relocate detox to the Governor's mansion. I'm all for that.
To pour salt on the wound, the state has admitted to intentional 'slow-pay' POLICY of it's current bills and contractual obligations. In her August 27, 2008 letter to providers, Ms. Lilia Teninty of DHS stated "the payment cycle is being lengthened as much as necessary to accommodate reductions," bureaucrat-speak for "we have decided not to pay our bills on time." The Boys and Girls Club never received the $100,000 that they were 'given,' last year. Can you imagine saying that to your electric company, or mortgage lender/landlord?
So what to do? The IL House of Representatives has already voted to reinstate the funding cuts. If the Senate waits to reconvene in November, too many programs and services will be gone. They need to come back into session NOW and DO THE RIGHT THING AND PUT PEOPLE FIRST by reinstating the cuts!
Don't live in IL? Don't have to. Call on behalf of Sophie and all of us. Call once everyday. It only takes a couple of minutes and its not scary or hard at all. Don't let it remain true that they have received more calls about State Parks being closed than about these cuts. As it was said at the forum, trees will continue to grow, but people will die because of these cuts. Call and say, "Your (niece/granddaughter/friend) has a developmental disability and lives in IL. You are outraged about the cuts to developmental disability services. You want the Senate back now to reinstate the cuts. Sophie deserves these services to live her life to her fullest."
Rod R. Blagojevich, Governor100 W. Randolph Street, Ste. 16-100Chicago, IL 60601 (312) 814-2121207 State House Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-6830 http://www.illinois.gov/ or http://www.illinois.gov/gov/contactthegovernor.cfm
Emil Jones, Senate President 507 W. 111th Street Chicago, Il 60628 (773) 995-7748, 327 Capitol Building Springfield, IL 62706, (217) 782-2728 jones@senatedem.ilga.gov
Michael J. Madigan, Speaker of the House6500 S. Pulaski Rd. Chicago, IL 60629 (773) 581-8000, 300 Capitol Building Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-5350 mmadigan@hds.ilga.gov
You may even direct these questions higher to United States Senator and Presidential Candidate Barak Obama. I know I am. Did you read this far? Congrats. Leave me a comment and I'll bake you a cookie.
The State of Illinois is ranked dead last at 51 out of 50 states and Washington D.C. for how much funding is spent on developmental disabilities. We are 51 and Failing according to NAMI AND unbelievably falling even further behind.
In all their wisdom, the powers that be have cut $60.9 MILLION statewide in developmental disabilities services. For our local Developmental Services Center, its a whopping $300,000 in cuts. My family as been on a waiting list for Respite Care since December 2007 and were told it was a year long wait. I don't see it happening at all now.
Additionally, substance abuse services have received $55,000,000 in cuts and mental health services $35,600,000 in cuts according to Champaign County Mental Health Board and the Champaign County Board for Care and Treatment of Persons with a Developmental Disability. TRANSLATION: The State of IL is cutting off the lifeline for its citizens who are the most vulnerable. They THINK they are cutting funding to those without the ability to stand up and fight. They forgot about mama and papa bears.
At the Public Forum 2 nights ago I heard consumers, staff, and parents get up and speak about how these cuts to an already despicable budget will affect them. I heard about how the local DV and Rape Crisis Center will be pushed back to funding levels of 6 years ago. A staff member asked which child victim of sexual assault they should turn away from their door, one who is raped today or one who took a few years to find the courage to come forward? Substance abuse programs are in danger of locking their doors. Detox services will be gone.
I was not prepared for how emotional this forum would be. As I heard a mother describe her fears of what will happen to her child who has developmental disabilities after she is gone from this earth, I cried. I don't normally let myself think those thoughts about Sophie's life after Mark and I are gone. She said, 'it's horrible for parents to pray that we live only 1 day longer than our children with a DD' and my stomach lurched, my heart pierced with pain. Services are already years long, especially for our kids who grow up and commit the "crime" of turning 21. Group homes, work programs all at risk.
Two recovering addicts spoke and their words really affected me. Detox saved 'him.' Take detox programs away and the state will pay for 'him' anyway when he ends up in prison and it will be much more expensive. It's true. Cuts to these services won't make the expense go away. It just transfers them to the ER, the prisons, and the morgue. The other speaker suggested that we relocate detox to the Governor's mansion. I'm all for that.
To pour salt on the wound, the state has admitted to intentional 'slow-pay' POLICY of it's current bills and contractual obligations. In her August 27, 2008 letter to providers, Ms. Lilia Teninty of DHS stated "the payment cycle is being lengthened as much as necessary to accommodate reductions," bureaucrat-speak for "we have decided not to pay our bills on time." The Boys and Girls Club never received the $100,000 that they were 'given,' last year. Can you imagine saying that to your electric company, or mortgage lender/landlord?
So what to do? The IL House of Representatives has already voted to reinstate the funding cuts. If the Senate waits to reconvene in November, too many programs and services will be gone. They need to come back into session NOW and DO THE RIGHT THING AND PUT PEOPLE FIRST by reinstating the cuts!
Don't live in IL? Don't have to. Call on behalf of Sophie and all of us. Call once everyday. It only takes a couple of minutes and its not scary or hard at all. Don't let it remain true that they have received more calls about State Parks being closed than about these cuts. As it was said at the forum, trees will continue to grow, but people will die because of these cuts. Call and say, "Your (niece/granddaughter/friend) has a developmental disability and lives in IL. You are outraged about the cuts to developmental disability services. You want the Senate back now to reinstate the cuts. Sophie deserves these services to live her life to her fullest."
Rod R. Blagojevich, Governor100 W. Randolph Street, Ste. 16-100Chicago, IL 60601 (312) 814-2121207 State House Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-6830 http://www.illinois.gov/ or http://www.illinois.gov/gov/contactthegovernor.cfm
Emil Jones, Senate President 507 W. 111th Street Chicago, Il 60628 (773) 995-7748, 327 Capitol Building Springfield, IL 62706, (217) 782-2728 jones@senatedem.ilga.gov
Michael J. Madigan, Speaker of the House6500 S. Pulaski Rd. Chicago, IL 60629 (773) 581-8000, 300 Capitol Building Springfield, IL 62706 (217) 782-5350 mmadigan@hds.ilga.gov
You may even direct these questions higher to United States Senator and Presidential Candidate Barak Obama. I know I am. Did you read this far? Congrats. Leave me a comment and I'll bake you a cookie.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Help Pass Senate Bill 1738—The PROTECT Our Children Act
Thanks to Oprah for the heads-up! Hopefully as a result of her show that aired today, many people will reach out and demand that this non-partisan bill with funding be passed. Regardless of how you feel about Oprah, please act quickly as voting will take place soon. I just emailed my senators and it only took 2 minutes. Lead sponsors of the bill are Sen. Joe Biden (D), Sen. Orrin Hatch (R), Rep. Wasserman Schultz (D), Rep. Joe Barton (R).
Hundreds of thousands of children are victims of sexual abuse each year. Due to the sheer lack of resources, law enforcement is unable to follow up on the majority of leads they have.
Hundreds of thousands of children are victims of sexual abuse each year. Due to the sheer lack of resources, law enforcement is unable to follow up on the majority of leads they have.
The PROTECT Our Children Act will:
- Authorize over $320 million over the next five years in desperately needed funding for law enforcement to investigate child exploitation.
- Mandate that child rescue be a top priority for law enforcement receiving federal funding.
- Allocate funds for high-tech computer software that can track down Internet predators.
Act Now!
Your U.S. senators will be voting on the bill soon, so it is crucial you contact them immediately. Go to here to find contact information for the senators in your state. Search for your senator by name or state by clicking on the arrow from either dropdown menu. Contact information is provided here. To send an e-mail, click on "Web Form" below his or her name, and e-mail your letter to make a difference!
Call Your Senators
If you choose to contact your senators by phone, be sure to tell them, "Vote yes on Senate Bill 1738—The PROTECT Our Children Act."
Write to Your Senators
If you choose to write a letter, fax, telegram or e-mail, you may use the sample letter—on Oprah's website and modify it how you see fit. The sample letter and instructions for how to copy and paste it can be found here.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
ADA Amendments Act of 2008
September 11, 2008
Harkin, Hatch Measure Fulfilling Promise Of Americans With Disabilities Act Passes Senate Unanimously
by Harkin Press Staff
Legislation responds to Supreme Court decisions that narrowed the definition of disability
Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Orrin Hatch (R-UT) today announced that the Senate had approved by unanimous consent a bill that would clarify the law’s intent and ensure that all Americans with disabilities are protected from discrimination. The bill will need to be acted upon by the House of Representatives before being sent to the President’s desk.
The Senate bill is similar to bipartisan legislation introduced in the House by Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner that passed by a 402-17 margin this summer.
Considered to be one of the landmark civil rights laws of the 20th century, the ADA was designed to protect any individual who is discriminated against on the basis of disability. The law was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush.
Since the ADA became law, a series of court decisions have narrowed the category of who qualifies as an "individual with a disability," contrary to Congressional intent. By raising the threshold for an impairment to qualify as a disability, these court decisions have deprived individuals of the discrimination protections Congress intended to provide.
The ADA Amendments Act would remedy this problem and restore workplace protections to every American with a disability. The bill leaves the ADA’s familiar disability definition intact, but takes several specific steps to direct courts toward a more generous meaning and application of the definition. The legislation would make it easier for people with disabilities to be covered by the ADA because it effectively expands the definition of disability to include many more major life activities, as well as a new category of major bodily functions.
"With today’s vote, we have restored the promise of the ADA which was signed into law 18 years ago," said Harkin, the chief author of the original ADA. "The protections afforded under this historic law have been eroded and the result is that people with serious conditions like epilepsy or diabetes could be forced to choose between treating their conditions and forfeiting their protections under the law. That is not what Congress intended when we passed the law, and this bill is the right fix."
"This is a historic day," said Hatch. "This bill continues our ongoing effort to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in the American Dream. Passage of the ADA Amendments Act ensures that the Americans with Disabilities Act will continue to help change lives. I’m proud to have worked with my good friend Tom Harkin in crafting this monumental bill that enjoys such strong bipartisan support."
The ADA Amendments Act enjoys strong support by advocacy groups, including most national disability organizations, 23 major veterans organizations, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, the Society for Human Resource Management, and the Human Resources Policy Association.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Statement of Senator Barack Obama on the Senate's Passage of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
For Immediate Release
Contact: Michael Ortiz
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Barack Obama today released the following statement after the Senate passed the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, S. 3406. Senator Obama is a cosponsor of this legislation.
"With nearly fifty-four million Americans living with disabilities, it must be a priority for our government to do everything it can to protect and respect the needs of these Americans. I am proud the Senate passed this Act today to reverse judicial decisions that permit discrimination against persons with disabilities.
"Eighteen years ago, enacting the Americans with Disabilities Act was a historic milestone for millions of Americans when it was signed into law. It gave Americans with disabilities better access, more opportunities, and increased independence.
"While we still have much more to do, today's passage is an important affirmation of our commitment to disabled Americans. I commend Senator Harkin, a true leader on this issue, for working to pass this legislation."
Harkin, Hatch Measure Fulfilling Promise Of Americans With Disabilities Act Passes Senate Unanimously
by Harkin Press Staff
Legislation responds to Supreme Court decisions that narrowed the definition of disability
Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Orrin Hatch (R-UT) today announced that the Senate had approved by unanimous consent a bill that would clarify the law’s intent and ensure that all Americans with disabilities are protected from discrimination. The bill will need to be acted upon by the House of Representatives before being sent to the President’s desk.
The Senate bill is similar to bipartisan legislation introduced in the House by Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and Congressman Jim Sensenbrenner that passed by a 402-17 margin this summer.
Considered to be one of the landmark civil rights laws of the 20th century, the ADA was designed to protect any individual who is discriminated against on the basis of disability. The law was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush.
Since the ADA became law, a series of court decisions have narrowed the category of who qualifies as an "individual with a disability," contrary to Congressional intent. By raising the threshold for an impairment to qualify as a disability, these court decisions have deprived individuals of the discrimination protections Congress intended to provide.
The ADA Amendments Act would remedy this problem and restore workplace protections to every American with a disability. The bill leaves the ADA’s familiar disability definition intact, but takes several specific steps to direct courts toward a more generous meaning and application of the definition. The legislation would make it easier for people with disabilities to be covered by the ADA because it effectively expands the definition of disability to include many more major life activities, as well as a new category of major bodily functions.
"With today’s vote, we have restored the promise of the ADA which was signed into law 18 years ago," said Harkin, the chief author of the original ADA. "The protections afforded under this historic law have been eroded and the result is that people with serious conditions like epilepsy or diabetes could be forced to choose between treating their conditions and forfeiting their protections under the law. That is not what Congress intended when we passed the law, and this bill is the right fix."
"This is a historic day," said Hatch. "This bill continues our ongoing effort to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in the American Dream. Passage of the ADA Amendments Act ensures that the Americans with Disabilities Act will continue to help change lives. I’m proud to have worked with my good friend Tom Harkin in crafting this monumental bill that enjoys such strong bipartisan support."
The ADA Amendments Act enjoys strong support by advocacy groups, including most national disability organizations, 23 major veterans organizations, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, the Society for Human Resource Management, and the Human Resources Policy Association.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Statement of Senator Barack Obama on the Senate's Passage of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
For Immediate Release
Contact: Michael Ortiz
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Barack Obama today released the following statement after the Senate passed the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, S. 3406. Senator Obama is a cosponsor of this legislation.
"With nearly fifty-four million Americans living with disabilities, it must be a priority for our government to do everything it can to protect and respect the needs of these Americans. I am proud the Senate passed this Act today to reverse judicial decisions that permit discrimination against persons with disabilities.
"Eighteen years ago, enacting the Americans with Disabilities Act was a historic milestone for millions of Americans when it was signed into law. It gave Americans with disabilities better access, more opportunities, and increased independence.
"While we still have much more to do, today's passage is an important affirmation of our commitment to disabled Americans. I commend Senator Harkin, a true leader on this issue, for working to pass this legislation."
Tina, I Loves Ya!
Because I'm still laughing so hard that I'm crying. And I'm pregnant, so that's dangerous with this bladder.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
It should be about the issues
An amazing online organization that I belong to called MomsRising is asking Gov. Palin where she stands on key issues that mothers care about and deal with each and every day. They have recieved 17,000 signatures in just a few days and have a goal of 20,000.
"The nomination of Gov. Palin, a self-proclaimed hockey mom, has set off a firestorm of media commentary across the political spectrum and in the mom world. We want your help making sure that this commentary focuses on the issues like healthcare, fair pay, early learning, paid sick days, and maternity/paternity leave.
The media commentary shouldn't be about Gov. Palin's children, which is essentially unchecked gender bias, it should be about the issues--and where she stands on them. After all, we've had fathers in the White House for a couple hundred of years and their parental roles have yet to be an election issue. "
Click here to sign the letter.
"The nomination of Gov. Palin, a self-proclaimed hockey mom, has set off a firestorm of media commentary across the political spectrum and in the mom world. We want your help making sure that this commentary focuses on the issues like healthcare, fair pay, early learning, paid sick days, and maternity/paternity leave.
The media commentary shouldn't be about Gov. Palin's children, which is essentially unchecked gender bias, it should be about the issues--and where she stands on them. After all, we've had fathers in the White House for a couple hundred of years and their parental roles have yet to be an election issue. "
Click here to sign the letter.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
What's the Plan Stan?
Although it isn't the only factor in my choice of presidential candidate, this is a Big one. I fully intend to learn from both sides on what their plans are to support people with disabilities. Showing me how they will be a friend and advocate in the White House for those of us in the special needs community is of critical importance to me.
Here's a link that includes a video and Obama's fact sheet on his plan to empower people with disabilities. I looked for a similar response from his opponent. Although McCain's website has a section "on the issues" I did not see disability issues listed. If you are aware of such a plan, please leave me a comment with a link and I'll be sure to check it out.
Here's a link that includes a video and Obama's fact sheet on his plan to empower people with disabilities. I looked for a similar response from his opponent. Although McCain's website has a section "on the issues" I did not see disability issues listed. If you are aware of such a plan, please leave me a comment with a link and I'll be sure to check it out.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
The V - Vote
The race is on. Yes, I am aware that McCain's pick for VP is a woman who happens to have a child with Down syndrome. Since I believe that there are really 2 main reasons to pay for cable TV; Noggin and John Stewart's The Daily Show, this video clip will come as a surprise to no one who knows me. Folks, its guaranteed to offend some of my readers. Watch at your own peril (especially those with weak bladders). I'm truly sorry if this means goodbye.
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
| John McCain Chooses a Running Mate | ||||
| ||||
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