Cutting off our Legs

“Give me your tired, your poor, 


Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, 


The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. 


Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me, 


I lift my lamp beside the golden door!" (Emma Lazarus, 1883)

For centuries, these words have welcomed masses to the eastern shore of the United States.  Millions of people have wandered to her shores seeking wealth, prosperity and rest from the injustices heaped upon them by the unjust economic systems of their native lands.  Hoping to work towards the realization of the American dream, many worked hard to own land and provide for their families.  Yet, the U.S., founded in-justly, stolen irreparably, and built on slavery, never genuinely offered a dream that was meant for all.  When the Declaration of Independence was written, the independence declared was specific to a particular segment of American society during the 17^th century.  


Today, the masses are still struggling for an economically just society.  In fact, that struggle is perhaps worse than it has been since the great depression.   The gap between the rich and the poor is higher than it has ever been. The U.S. is now ranked with Argentina, Cameroon and the Ivory Coast in terms of economic inequality - the lowest rank of any industrialized country (CIA.gov, 2010).  In case you didn't know those three countries are what are typically and offensively termed "3rd world" countries.

A recent Washington Post article states that the Republicans are hoping to cut $100 billion dollars to non military programs.  This will begin by cutting one-third of the budgets of most federal agencies.  This will affect millions of people across the nation.  Having just hung up with a dear relative who has been unemployed for two years, has sent out hundreds of resumes to no avail, and has had very little luck accessing social programs, this is disheartening news indeed.  Why is that our government continues to insure the wealth of America's richest 5% while cutting off the legs of those from whom that wealth was gained?

One of my professors posted this quote that I believe is important to remember. "Remember this:  We be many and they be few.  They need us more than we need them.  Another world is not only possible, she is on her way.  On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing. ~ Arundhati Roy.    We elected Obama as a change candidate.  He never said he would do it...but encouraged us to.  Change - economic justice - has to happen because WE make it happen.