In the immediate aftermath of the recent protests in Berkeley and in response to a colleague's admonition to conduct proactive and peaceful efforts to transform ourselves and our world, I respectfully submit that resistance to the totalitarian-leaning, corporate-centric, militaristic, anti-LGBTQ, anti-environment, reactionary, misogynistic, and authoritarian regime currently in the seat of governmental power will assume a variety of different forms and find expression in a variety of different ways. This will include proactive leadership work with a focus on personal and societal transformation as well as organized and persistent protests in the streets all across the country. Non-violent resistance more properly mirrors the vision of a sustainable future and is a preferred method of protest not only because of favorable optics but, as a practical matter, it skillfully counters the inclination of violent reaction from a domestic law enforcement apparatus specifically focused on the use of force.
This morning Trump suggested that federal funds could be suspended to UC Berkeley as a result of the isolated violence associated with the predominantly peaceful demonstration last night and as a result of the school's 'denial of free expression' to the controversial speaker Milo Yiannopoulos. As a matter of actual fact and in spite of persistent pressure to deny a forum for Mr. Yiannppoulos, UC Berkeley administrators provided not only the facilities to share his rather cynical and hateful rhetoric but also prepared a large security force in anticipation of the event. Moreover, DJT will be well-advised to check in with the Pentagon before he pulls the trigger on the threat to defund UC Berkeley as this institution is one of leading research centers for the Department of Defense and is central to this and other administration's efforts to wage their endless war against global terror.
It also might be useful to remind ourselves here that violence at public events is often triggered by the premeditated use of provocateurs to redirect and assign blame to a targeted group or organization in order to discredit an otherwise noble effort. Without specific reference to the events in Berkeley last night, my experience with anarchists over the years has yielded the view that this particular form of political expression is essentially peaceful (with some exceptions) and dedicated to the proposition of unfettered democratic manifestation. That said, the latest information regarding this most recent action suggests that this current iteration of the anarchists model was indeed inclined toward a violent expression very much opposed to the overwhelmingly peaceful intent and purpose of the protest in general. Broad brush painting would be a mistake and a mis-characterization of the reality on the ground.
Thursday, February 2, 2017
Tuesday, January 31, 2017
A Considered Warning
In the wake of the backlash to the arbitrary, ill-advised and, more importantly, ill-conceived Trumpian edict regarding the blanket immigration prohibition currently in effect (albeit contested), a note of additional warning is now appropriate and necessary.
Trump's recent executive orders have seriously decreased what was already sagging approval ratings and despite his apparent disregard for public or journalistic affirmation, the 'success' of his reign will depend on the extent to which his message and promise of a fear-induced agenda sufficiently resonates with the majority of people in this country. The lack of consensus among the population for his policies and declarations is similar to the general attitude to the newly installed government of Bush/Chaney in the days before the terrorist-induced tragedy of 9/11. After the attack on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, the nation was galvanized in response to an existential threat and seized with a collective sense of fear which yielded acquiescence to repressive measures and policies which impinged upon fundamental constitutional rights through the enactment of the Pariot Act, the widespread implementation of mass surveillance, and a systematic disregard for human rights heretofore protected by international law. This forfeiture of power, especially to the executive branch of government, eventually resulted in the disastrous debacle in Iraq which all but squandered the goodwill of the international community so much in evidence in aftermath of the 2001 attack.
The current regime is exercising similar executive authority the perceived legitimacy and popular support of which will be needed to continue to operate with any credible mandate from the populace. As in the case of the last Republican regime, this mandate will likely be secured by the occurrence of a fear-inducing event used (if not designed and intended) to coalesce a national sentiment otherwise indifferent or outwardly hostile to the ruling government. False flag operations and the use of provocateurs to influence events and change opinion have a long history of targeted usage internationally and here at home. Given Trump's growing unpopularity, his penchant for authoritarian over-reach and a conspicuous lack of moral discretion, the assertion of this tactic should be neither unexpected nor unanticipated as a very real possibility in the not too distant future.
My last admonition in the immediate aftermath of Trump's ascension to power was: 'people get ready'; it has now become 'people be ready'. As a new form of darkness readies itself, the resolve of the American people to preserve and protect its precious freedoms is bound to be tested in ways suggested here and in ways only now dimly imagined.
Trump's recent executive orders have seriously decreased what was already sagging approval ratings and despite his apparent disregard for public or journalistic affirmation, the 'success' of his reign will depend on the extent to which his message and promise of a fear-induced agenda sufficiently resonates with the majority of people in this country. The lack of consensus among the population for his policies and declarations is similar to the general attitude to the newly installed government of Bush/Chaney in the days before the terrorist-induced tragedy of 9/11. After the attack on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, the nation was galvanized in response to an existential threat and seized with a collective sense of fear which yielded acquiescence to repressive measures and policies which impinged upon fundamental constitutional rights through the enactment of the Pariot Act, the widespread implementation of mass surveillance, and a systematic disregard for human rights heretofore protected by international law. This forfeiture of power, especially to the executive branch of government, eventually resulted in the disastrous debacle in Iraq which all but squandered the goodwill of the international community so much in evidence in aftermath of the 2001 attack.
The current regime is exercising similar executive authority the perceived legitimacy and popular support of which will be needed to continue to operate with any credible mandate from the populace. As in the case of the last Republican regime, this mandate will likely be secured by the occurrence of a fear-inducing event used (if not designed and intended) to coalesce a national sentiment otherwise indifferent or outwardly hostile to the ruling government. False flag operations and the use of provocateurs to influence events and change opinion have a long history of targeted usage internationally and here at home. Given Trump's growing unpopularity, his penchant for authoritarian over-reach and a conspicuous lack of moral discretion, the assertion of this tactic should be neither unexpected nor unanticipated as a very real possibility in the not too distant future.
My last admonition in the immediate aftermath of Trump's ascension to power was: 'people get ready'; it has now become 'people be ready'. As a new form of darkness readies itself, the resolve of the American people to preserve and protect its precious freedoms is bound to be tested in ways suggested here and in ways only now dimly imagined.
My People of the Park
In my thirty-three years of running at Golden Gate Park's Polo Fields I've encountered a wide variety of citizens, both two and four legged with whom I've had the privilege to share the same rarified air unique to San Francisco as we creatures, great and small, clamor about in recreation, rehabilitation, exaltation, or simply to survive. Through the majority of this period, my typical arrival time at the park would be 5 AM which often meant that I would conduct any given workout partly or entirely in the dark (the eyes really do adjust to this condition) accompanied by an assortment of skunks, possums, coyotes, an occasional abandoned dog, and a delightful family of foxes who faithfully waited (or so it seemed) for me in the exact same spot until the clapping of my hands singled my imminent arrival so they might make a hasty retreat to safety, away from my daily intrusion into their otherwise peaceful morning.
I have also shared this space with a wide range of fellow runners with whom I developed friendships some of which have spanned three decades. There is Kai who originally immigrated from Tibet for study in the US and who's smiling greeting is a welcomed awakening call to the miracle of the unfolding day. There is Liam who runs daily with a slow and slightly palsied stride, persistent and determined in pursuit of a healthy and disciplined lifestyle. Here is Adam, a strapping and somewhat mentally challenged man of my certain age with whom I've shared this same path for all these years, always exchanging 'you're still looking good' affirmations as we proceed through time. Simon also can be seen on any given day, the CEO of one San Francisco's largest Chinese import businesses who has always taken the time to inquire about my most recent race or perhaps the state of my most recent injury. Donald regularly shows up to lightly jog or walk the grounds despite chronic bronchitis and advancing years. Frank is the retired SF fire department captain who shares my passion for hard workouts and love of the Giants and who rarely misses an opportunity to express his dismay over the fact that Barry Bonds is yet to be admitted to baseball's Hall of Fame. Around the bend, Steve might come shuffling along in varying states discomfort. A long-time SF physician who suffers from a chronic vascular disorder that restricts the movement of his legs, Steve perseveres and dispenses free medical advice, solicited or otherwise. Emily and John are not far behind on their daily stroll through the park on the way to Ocean Beach and who greets meet as if it were our first meeting.Kiyoko follows with her dog, slowly walking and often pausing to admire a flower or perhaps the ever-fragrant presence of our beloved eucalyptus trees that watch over us with silent authority.
Add to this motley crew, Jeff who is the unsung hero of the entire group. Unlike the neatly attired and carefully sculptured fitness practitioners who elsewhere adorn the gym or roadway with their studied, self-conscious, and perfected countenance, Jeff appears on the scene in the same well-worn sweat suit laboring around the perimeter of the grounds as he diligently and courageously forces a morbidly obese body to take that next step toward what must seem like the unreachable goal of full fitness. He will never be seen posing in front of a gym mirror or strategically place himself on a street corner to be admired by the passing throng but he shows up regularly in a valiant attempt to change the course of his physical existence. In full sight of all the beautiful bodies that often prance and preen all around him, Jeff, brave and unbeautiful, continues to inspire with plodding and undaunted elegance.
I have also shared this space with a wide range of fellow runners with whom I developed friendships some of which have spanned three decades. There is Kai who originally immigrated from Tibet for study in the US and who's smiling greeting is a welcomed awakening call to the miracle of the unfolding day. There is Liam who runs daily with a slow and slightly palsied stride, persistent and determined in pursuit of a healthy and disciplined lifestyle. Here is Adam, a strapping and somewhat mentally challenged man of my certain age with whom I've shared this same path for all these years, always exchanging 'you're still looking good' affirmations as we proceed through time. Simon also can be seen on any given day, the CEO of one San Francisco's largest Chinese import businesses who has always taken the time to inquire about my most recent race or perhaps the state of my most recent injury. Donald regularly shows up to lightly jog or walk the grounds despite chronic bronchitis and advancing years. Frank is the retired SF fire department captain who shares my passion for hard workouts and love of the Giants and who rarely misses an opportunity to express his dismay over the fact that Barry Bonds is yet to be admitted to baseball's Hall of Fame. Around the bend, Steve might come shuffling along in varying states discomfort. A long-time SF physician who suffers from a chronic vascular disorder that restricts the movement of his legs, Steve perseveres and dispenses free medical advice, solicited or otherwise. Emily and John are not far behind on their daily stroll through the park on the way to Ocean Beach and who greets meet as if it were our first meeting.Kiyoko follows with her dog, slowly walking and often pausing to admire a flower or perhaps the ever-fragrant presence of our beloved eucalyptus trees that watch over us with silent authority.
Add to this motley crew, Jeff who is the unsung hero of the entire group. Unlike the neatly attired and carefully sculptured fitness practitioners who elsewhere adorn the gym or roadway with their studied, self-conscious, and perfected countenance, Jeff appears on the scene in the same well-worn sweat suit laboring around the perimeter of the grounds as he diligently and courageously forces a morbidly obese body to take that next step toward what must seem like the unreachable goal of full fitness. He will never be seen posing in front of a gym mirror or strategically place himself on a street corner to be admired by the passing throng but he shows up regularly in a valiant attempt to change the course of his physical existence. In full sight of all the beautiful bodies that often prance and preen all around him, Jeff, brave and unbeautiful, continues to inspire with plodding and undaunted elegance.
Time To Move On
The cost of the production and delivery of sustainable sources of energy is currently at an all time low is becoming increasingly cheaper as the technology advances. Smart investors are already seizing this financial opportunity quite apart from the obvious environmental benefits involved in its development. Give up the gaslight and carriage business...the 21st century's version of the light bulb and automobile is upon us!
Thursday, January 26, 2017
Resisting Distraction
Consistent with their coverage throughout the presidential campaign, MSNBC (I choose to focus on the so-called 'liberal' representative of the MSM), spent an inordinate amount of air time in various states of outrage over the latest Trumpian assertion (and the subsequent underscore by press secretary, Sean Spicer) that three to five million people had voted illegally in the recent election. Instead of focusing on the intent of the original tweet which involves sending a clear message to Republican legislators throughout the country to remobilize their efforts to suppress the vote, the MSM's 'journalistic' response to this absurd contention was to obsessively point to the most recent bright shiny object appearing in cyberspace and, in so doing, collaborated with the new administration in their effort to distract the American people away from its very real attempt to manipulate and change the fabric of our political landscape. The recent statement was a purposeful attempt to reinvigorate efforts to suppress the vote around the country. The Republicans have won the popular vote in a national election exactly once (2004) since 1988. Given the continual and organic evolution of national demographics, they know that maintaining political relevance depends on reducing the turnout in specific regions of the country. It's been an essential part of their strategy for years but it is now critical for their survival.
The more outrageous the Trump utterance, the better it is for the MSM and their viewership ratings. We must never forget that corporate media's primary objective is to make money. If real journalism is what you are after, we can refer you to the archives for past H.L. Mencken articles, an Edward R Murrow editorial or two, or perhaps the occasional New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Christian Science Monitor, or Intercept article. Save Amy Goodman's Democracy Now, one is not likely to find incisive and unfettered opinion and investigative journalism by turning on the TV.
While the collusion between Trump and the MSM successfully distracts our attention, real events are occurring concurrent with the unrelenting media circus. Trump rants, the media takes the bait, and the American public look away while Executive Orders are signed to continue the flow of environmentally polluting crude oil under our soil, federal funding is cut to NGO's thereby denying 20 million women worldwide vital health care, immigrant hopes of legal assimilation are dashed under the vengeful hand of an intolerant 'homeland' policy while fears of deportation increase, entire governmental agencies are given a gag order not to speak to the press, sanctuary cities are threaten with defunding, wages are frozen, fast-tracking environmental approval under the guidance of an EPA secretary who is a declared opponent of the agency he now heads is well underway, the freezing of all regulations the approval of which is now subject to Executive approval, and the unraveling of the Affordable Care Act without a coherent replacement thereby endangering the well being of millions of American citizens has begun unabated.
The current administration is counting on an inattentive public and media-induced distraction away form the very real events which will materially affect the quality of our lives and the character of our country. A major element of the work to be done going forward is to identify and resist any and all diversionary measures while maintaining focus on the ways in which we might continue to posit viable, visionary, and sustainable alternatives to the existing and ensuing model.
The more outrageous the Trump utterance, the better it is for the MSM and their viewership ratings. We must never forget that corporate media's primary objective is to make money. If real journalism is what you are after, we can refer you to the archives for past H.L. Mencken articles, an Edward R Murrow editorial or two, or perhaps the occasional New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Christian Science Monitor, or Intercept article. Save Amy Goodman's Democracy Now, one is not likely to find incisive and unfettered opinion and investigative journalism by turning on the TV.
While the collusion between Trump and the MSM successfully distracts our attention, real events are occurring concurrent with the unrelenting media circus. Trump rants, the media takes the bait, and the American public look away while Executive Orders are signed to continue the flow of environmentally polluting crude oil under our soil, federal funding is cut to NGO's thereby denying 20 million women worldwide vital health care, immigrant hopes of legal assimilation are dashed under the vengeful hand of an intolerant 'homeland' policy while fears of deportation increase, entire governmental agencies are given a gag order not to speak to the press, sanctuary cities are threaten with defunding, wages are frozen, fast-tracking environmental approval under the guidance of an EPA secretary who is a declared opponent of the agency he now heads is well underway, the freezing of all regulations the approval of which is now subject to Executive approval, and the unraveling of the Affordable Care Act without a coherent replacement thereby endangering the well being of millions of American citizens has begun unabated.
The current administration is counting on an inattentive public and media-induced distraction away form the very real events which will materially affect the quality of our lives and the character of our country. A major element of the work to be done going forward is to identify and resist any and all diversionary measures while maintaining focus on the ways in which we might continue to posit viable, visionary, and sustainable alternatives to the existing and ensuing model.
Resisting Trump
In response to a recent admonishment regarding taking care not to mirror the hate one would otherwise stand against, allow me to suggest that speaking out and standing up against this regime is not an expression of hate; it is rather an expression of resistance to the vulgarity, crassness, hateful rhetoric, xenophobia, racial scapegoating, mean spirited 'othering', persistent distortion of the truth, inability to engage in honest self reflection, self aggrandizement, corporate appeasement, disregard for environmental, public educational and worker's concerns, and the tendency to favor authoritarian rule inherent in the words and actions of this president and many of those chosen to advise, represent, and influence this administration. To dissent, resist, and exercise one's voice as a free American is to engage in an act of love of country by fulfilling the sacred obligation of responsible citizenship.
Sunday, January 22, 2017
The Coming Storm
After a close and sober examination of the apparent implicit philosophy of the recently assembled cabal surrounding the incoming president and at the risk of sounding an alarm a bit too loudly premature, one may nevertheless conclude that we might be only one terrorist attack/false flag operation away from the imposition of martial law in this country. The Trump administration's most likely chance for majority support will come from the inducement/existence of widespread fear among its people. The phenomenon was used with great success by Bush/Chaney in the wake of 9/11 and provides a blueprint for emulation by future unpopular regimes who must resort to this kind of manipulation in order to engender consensus among an otherwise unwilling population.
Given the enormous resistance on display in the recent demonstrations nationwide, it will be interesting to observe the extent to which the Trump administration can redirect the current constituency's mindset toward its dystopian worldview of perennial threat, constant fear, and the ongoing need for authoritarian control. The resolve of the opposition to this form of governance will surely be tested in ways we can now only imagine. We are well advised, therefore, to prepare for a challenge to basic values and norms the likes of which we have heretofore never seen. People get ready.
Given the enormous resistance on display in the recent demonstrations nationwide, it will be interesting to observe the extent to which the Trump administration can redirect the current constituency's mindset toward its dystopian worldview of perennial threat, constant fear, and the ongoing need for authoritarian control. The resolve of the opposition to this form of governance will surely be tested in ways we can now only imagine. We are well advised, therefore, to prepare for a challenge to basic values and norms the likes of which we have heretofore never seen. People get ready.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)