Although I have nothing against my classmate Casey, I have to say I STRONGLY disagree with this position on same-sex marriage. In Casey's post, Same-Sex Marriage I am a firm believer in the separation of church and state. If we lived our lives like the bible conducts, we would be stoning people to death, sacrificing animals and people at the alter, and literally thousands of other religious details that have NO place in the government. In EVERY MONOTHEISTIC RELIGIOUS BOOK, God tells us to love. Not who or how to love, just to love. There are instances where it is said in the bible that man shall not lay with another man, but research by a gay ex-catholic priest found at least 6 different parts of the bible where it IS okay.
The supreme court's job is to interpret the LAW, not the bible. The best part of this country that sets us aside from so many others is that we have religious freedom. If you want to disagree with same-sex marriage, that's more than okay. That is your right. But why should the constitution take away someone else's rights based on "what part they prefer."
So what is normal? Teaching our children that aren't heterosexual that all other people are bad and beneath us and don't deserve what we have? Who the hell are we to tell another person that their love is valid or not. Once again, I mean no disrespect to my classmate, but in reading this, I felt concerned. Quoted in his article, Casey says, "I wouldn't life for my kid to be around something like that because seeing it everywhere makes kids think its okay and normal and it's not." So let me ask you this, is hate normal? Is injustice something that you would rather teach your kids? We are all entitled to happiness. Just because you don't want to make out with another guy doesn't mean that all men should have to follow that rule. And it might be sexy to watch those girls make out at the club, but when it's time to talk about love and a life together, that's where we get concerned? I don't understand. I just don't.
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
Friday, May 6, 2016
Blog Stage 8- Fill in the bubble?
First of all, after reading a blog from GovChatStew I would like to say, this is a topic that is very near and
dear to my heart! I am so glad that this was brought up, and that I
know at least ONE OTHER PERSON OUT THERE IN THE WORLD is also thinking
the same way.
Tests. Fill out the bubble either a, b, c, or d. If you get these answers right, congrats! You can move forward in life! But what about those that aren't good at taking tests, and can show their smarts in ways other than a tiny fill-in-bubble.
My mother has worked in literacy for her entire adult life. She teaches adults to read, to teach them to read to their children, and to help struggling inner-city students with tutoring. When George W. Bush explained that we can't just let these kids file through school, I agreed with him. But the path to their success in MY mind v. what Bush was thinking in HIS mind are quite different. It is so important to educate these kids and give them the proper outlet to show how they have learned.
I remember sitting in the gym in high school and middle school surrounded in silence by 30-100 of my students all taking the standardized tests. "These tests will indicate to us how much you know" they say. "There is no way to prepare" they say. So on one hand you have some kid-o's that are fine test takers, and then you have the other students, that this is their worst nightmare.
Our students need to learn the material and given proper ways to share their intelligence. Is filling in a bubble what you want to predict your future?
Tests. Fill out the bubble either a, b, c, or d. If you get these answers right, congrats! You can move forward in life! But what about those that aren't good at taking tests, and can show their smarts in ways other than a tiny fill-in-bubble.
My mother has worked in literacy for her entire adult life. She teaches adults to read, to teach them to read to their children, and to help struggling inner-city students with tutoring. When George W. Bush explained that we can't just let these kids file through school, I agreed with him. But the path to their success in MY mind v. what Bush was thinking in HIS mind are quite different. It is so important to educate these kids and give them the proper outlet to show how they have learned.
I remember sitting in the gym in high school and middle school surrounded in silence by 30-100 of my students all taking the standardized tests. "These tests will indicate to us how much you know" they say. "There is no way to prepare" they say. So on one hand you have some kid-o's that are fine test takers, and then you have the other students, that this is their worst nightmare.
Our students need to learn the material and given proper ways to share their intelligence. Is filling in a bubble what you want to predict your future?
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Stop the Hate!
Ah, America. Remember when America meant dad coming home to his loving 2.5 children and perfectly submissive apron wearing wife after a long day of providing for his family? Remember dreaming of the perfect little blue house with the fresh cut green grass that travels all the way to the white picket fence? Remember the America when kids would join together in the neighborhood for a game of baseball? Remember when America meant hot dogs and fire works and proud patriotic citizens holding hands and singing Auld Land Syne? Do you remember that America?Because I sure as hell don't.
Sure, I didn't grow up when America was about all of these things, but I have grown up as part of the last generations that didn't grow up with an iPhone attracted to their faces. I still remember going outside to play, and going to summer camp without a cell phone, and being totally happy. Now, almost everyone in America has some sort of problem finding that true happiness that is what America thrived on not so long ago. I didn't grow up in the civil rights era, where the government didn't believe that black people and white people could drink out of the same water fountain. I have however been growing up in an America that has disgraced itself in showing love and support to each and every person. People are having the fight with their own government to use the bathroom that they feel comfortable in. A woman held up a sign at a protest this past week that read, "It wasn't about water fountains then, it's not about bathrooms now. Stop the hate." This struck me hard.
People in America are so full of hate towards each other. Yes, there is love and good things that happen every day, but in the end, our government has failed us in a lot of ways. Take this election for example. When on world would a rational candidate make fun of people with disestablishes? In what world does it make sense that the government should tell people who they are allowed to love? In what world do we claim to be the best country, when we have so many failings and facts stating otherwise.
The government was made to make Americans feel safe and protected, while upholding each and every person's rights. We don't live in that America. But the multiple issues that we have are not thanks to the government. They have nothing to do with the laws. The problem that we have going on here is a severe case of hate. It is in OUR power to stop hating each other, not the governments.
Sure, I didn't grow up when America was about all of these things, but I have grown up as part of the last generations that didn't grow up with an iPhone attracted to their faces. I still remember going outside to play, and going to summer camp without a cell phone, and being totally happy. Now, almost everyone in America has some sort of problem finding that true happiness that is what America thrived on not so long ago. I didn't grow up in the civil rights era, where the government didn't believe that black people and white people could drink out of the same water fountain. I have however been growing up in an America that has disgraced itself in showing love and support to each and every person. People are having the fight with their own government to use the bathroom that they feel comfortable in. A woman held up a sign at a protest this past week that read, "It wasn't about water fountains then, it's not about bathrooms now. Stop the hate." This struck me hard.
People in America are so full of hate towards each other. Yes, there is love and good things that happen every day, but in the end, our government has failed us in a lot of ways. Take this election for example. When on world would a rational candidate make fun of people with disestablishes? In what world does it make sense that the government should tell people who they are allowed to love? In what world do we claim to be the best country, when we have so many failings and facts stating otherwise.
The government was made to make Americans feel safe and protected, while upholding each and every person's rights. We don't live in that America. But the multiple issues that we have are not thanks to the government. They have nothing to do with the laws. The problem that we have going on here is a severe case of hate. It is in OUR power to stop hating each other, not the governments.
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
F U Trump!
For my blog assignment, I commented on a great piece called Considering Donald Tumping by classmate Marcus Hobbs. The arguments he made focused on the GOOD that trump can do for our country. Neither Marcus or I are Trump supporters, but it's good to look for the silver lining! While Trump has had some successful financial endeavors, it's important for us to ask ourselves- is this the person we want to represent America?
Monday, March 28, 2016
Really Georgia?
There are a lot of issues in this day and age. We are focused on the presidential election, legalization of marijuana, terrorism, gun rights, and so much more. It is easy to care about national issues because all Americans are linked to them. But what about when one (or more) states go completely off their rocker?
In an article in Think Progress, Veto of Anti-LGBT Rights, Georgia legislature passed a bill to deny the LGBTQ+ community their rights and freedoms. Due to what I can only assume was a conjuring of evil "politicians" and "religious maniacs," same-sex couples can now be denied rights and services due to "Religious Liberty."
Okay, let's get something straight right now. In NO religion are we taught to hate. in EVERY religion, the core is based on the golden rule- do unto others as you wish to be done to you.
In what Church or Temple does a religious leader ever turn someone away? These are people that study and pray on the basis of equality, love, and acceptance.
This brings up the issue of separation of church and state. While the Mayor argues "our laws are given to us by God, not The Constitution," others have realized that there should be a clear separation. The Government is there to HELP people. Not turn them away based on their spirituality or sexual preference.
While I have very negative things to say about the Mayor and the legislature of Georgia, I know that this does not represent every single person in that state. There are good and bad in every group.
It is ridiculous that people still exist that are so close minded and full of hate that they take others rights away.
In an article in Think Progress, Veto of Anti-LGBT Rights, Georgia legislature passed a bill to deny the LGBTQ+ community their rights and freedoms. Due to what I can only assume was a conjuring of evil "politicians" and "religious maniacs," same-sex couples can now be denied rights and services due to "Religious Liberty."
Okay, let's get something straight right now. In NO religion are we taught to hate. in EVERY religion, the core is based on the golden rule- do unto others as you wish to be done to you.
In what Church or Temple does a religious leader ever turn someone away? These are people that study and pray on the basis of equality, love, and acceptance.
This brings up the issue of separation of church and state. While the Mayor argues "our laws are given to us by God, not The Constitution," others have realized that there should be a clear separation. The Government is there to HELP people. Not turn them away based on their spirituality or sexual preference.
While I have very negative things to say about the Mayor and the legislature of Georgia, I know that this does not represent every single person in that state. There are good and bad in every group.
It is ridiculous that people still exist that are so close minded and full of hate that they take others rights away.
Thursday, March 10, 2016
A Little Hate Goes a Long Way
Is it just me, or are people becoming used to racism? In the past few years, we have taken notice to movements such as "Black Lives Matter," "All Lives Matter," and states passing laws to allow equality in marriage. As a Jew, I know how the media can manipulate news. Media sources according to their beliefs will target one group as the bad group, and the other groups as innocent victims. What ISN'T shown is that both sides are hurting. We are living in a world literally torn by religion, race, and financial status.
In the recent presidential race, an issue of Islamophobia has increased. According to an issue in Time, author Justin Worland explores instances where candidate Donald Drumpf (Trump) has been vocal about his hate towards Islam. He claims "I think Islam hates us. There is a tremendous hatred there. We have to get to the bottom of it.” Here is the problem- Trump is the one that is bringing up hatred. He has made fun of people from all walks of life, from Islam, to black people, even to people with special needs. He is a constant reminder of what hate is capable of and can produce.
When asked about how he would ban all Muslims from "America the Great," he claims it would be hard to find out who the terrorists are. "It’s very hard to define,” he said. “Because you don’t know who’s who.” Forgetting that Muslims only take up 0.5% in shootings in America.
Worland does a great job exposing Trump being his racist, sexist self. However, not too many people are up in arms. It is our job as HUMAN BEINGS to stand up to injustice. A poem by Martin Neimoller, is a great reflection that is important to remember.
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.
It is our job to stop hate from becoming part of our nation's fabric. When we represent ourselves as a country of immigrants, we should be opeing our arms and hearts to those who are going through the same struggles that our ancestors endured. Now is the time to stand up to hate. If you're afraid of a Muslim, go talk to one. If you are afraid of a black person, go talk to one. People are people. There are good and bad in every group. Let's be the good.
In the recent presidential race, an issue of Islamophobia has increased. According to an issue in Time, author Justin Worland explores instances where candidate Donald Drumpf (Trump) has been vocal about his hate towards Islam. He claims "I think Islam hates us. There is a tremendous hatred there. We have to get to the bottom of it.” Here is the problem- Trump is the one that is bringing up hatred. He has made fun of people from all walks of life, from Islam, to black people, even to people with special needs. He is a constant reminder of what hate is capable of and can produce.
When asked about how he would ban all Muslims from "America the Great," he claims it would be hard to find out who the terrorists are. "It’s very hard to define,” he said. “Because you don’t know who’s who.” Forgetting that Muslims only take up 0.5% in shootings in America.
Worland does a great job exposing Trump being his racist, sexist self. However, not too many people are up in arms. It is our job as HUMAN BEINGS to stand up to injustice. A poem by Martin Neimoller, is a great reflection that is important to remember.
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.
It is our job to stop hate from becoming part of our nation's fabric. When we represent ourselves as a country of immigrants, we should be opeing our arms and hearts to those who are going through the same struggles that our ancestors endured. Now is the time to stand up to hate. If you're afraid of a Muslim, go talk to one. If you are afraid of a black person, go talk to one. People are people. There are good and bad in every group. Let's be the good.
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Getting Schooled
Have you ever heard the phrase, "knowledge is free?" While that statement may be true for some situations, for the majority of people applying for student financial aid would disagree. An article in The New York Times brings up the issue that people are not given a fair chance to receive money to go to college. In 2000, the government made a law restricting financial loans to people with even minor offenses. According to his article, close to 200,000 have been denied aid.
The law changed in 2005, becoming more specific to who would be eligible.
One of the biggest issues that the authors face in this situation is that this law is counterproductive. Our government and economy are there to support education, and should be driving citizens to go to college. But how can we continue to stand behind a law that prevents us from doing so? Because they do not differentiate between minor and major offenses. We need to understand that the war on drugs has gone too far when we deprive people from learning. It scares me that we can live in a world that is so afraid of "the war on drugs," that they will take away the chance for a student to go to college over a minor offense. Of course, the government needs to have certain restrictions for student loans, they also need to loosen up a little bit. There are many arguments that can be made both for and against giving financial aid to ex-criminals, but in the end, the only way that we can advance is if we give everyone a fair opportunity to.
The law changed in 2005, becoming more specific to who would be eligible.
One of the biggest issues that the authors face in this situation is that this law is counterproductive. Our government and economy are there to support education, and should be driving citizens to go to college. But how can we continue to stand behind a law that prevents us from doing so? Because they do not differentiate between minor and major offenses. We need to understand that the war on drugs has gone too far when we deprive people from learning. It scares me that we can live in a world that is so afraid of "the war on drugs," that they will take away the chance for a student to go to college over a minor offense. Of course, the government needs to have certain restrictions for student loans, they also need to loosen up a little bit. There are many arguments that can be made both for and against giving financial aid to ex-criminals, but in the end, the only way that we can advance is if we give everyone a fair opportunity to.
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