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"A national scandal" is the coined phrase Ms. Pfeiffer, an investigative reporter, uses to describe mentally ill persons and their shockingly tragic encounters with the criminal justice system. In this heartrending book she meticulously documents the stories of six mentally ill individuals who came into contact with the criminal justice system because of aberrant psychotic behaviors related to their illnesses and suffered tragic experiences in jails and prisons. This is the horrific story of how incarcerated mentally ill human beings are often subjected to dehumanizing experiences. It is a documentation of human beings in a system with "too little mental health care" and a system wherein "people are expendable in a society that's good at locking people up but not so good at setting them free."

This is the story of Shayne, who at the age of fourteen was diagnosed with acute schizophrenia. From that point on, she experienced extreme coping difficulties and over the years was hospitalized twenty-five times as well as spending time in prison. Much of her time in prison was spent in "the hole" because of her inability to follow prison rules. She successfully pulled out one of her eyeballs; two years later she succeeded in pulling out the other eyeball, completely blinding herself.

This is also the story of Luke, diagnosed as bipolar and addicted to drugs at a young age. Depression was also a part of his life. After being incarcerated for drug possession Luke's difficulty with coping skills escalated. He became increasingly emotionally frantic until, regrettably in desperation, he died from suicide.

This is the story of Joseph who had stolen several cars and ended up in a youth correctional facility where he could not successfully cope. After spending two months in a lockdown situation in a small cell with no TV, no family visits, no exercise, no personal possessions, no mental health services the severely distraught Joseph became another tragic statistic when he died from suicide at the age of eighteen.

Crazy in America is an intense, emotionally-draining portrayal of the lost lives of mentally ill individuals within a system that failed them, a system that failed to understand their illnesses and therefore failed to effectively treat them. The individuals are but a few of many that Ms. Pfeiffer could have portrayed. As the author states, "The mass of imprisoned humanity includes at least three hundred thousand people with mental illness." This book adds to the growing list of books addressing the ever increasing social problem of mental illness and incarceration.

The author is a strong advocate for change and has written numerous articles on incarcerated mentally ill persons. She clarifies her meaning of the word crazy. She does not use it to refer to mentally ill individuals; she uses it to describe what she says is the crazy way society reacts toward mentally ill individuals. Ms. Pfeiffer appropriately and fittingly concludes her book by stating, "America needs to try again to heal its ills and to help them heal themselves, with the wisdom of history and the knowledge that the people we will help, the people we will heal, will be ourselves. "

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Source by Landes Nehemiah

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1892

The US Supreme Court: the highest court in the land. Their job: to decide the constitutionality of cases. But is that what they are really doing? Can we trust that their decisions are just? Two important cases in history can help answer this question. A 1896 US Supreme Court case, Plessy v. Ferguson, made facilities and schools separate based on race. In another case in 1954, Brown v. Board of Education, the court reversed its decision and said that separate was not equal. These two cases teach two lessons about the US Supreme Court. Plessy shows that our justice system has failed at times to establish justice. Brown shows that even though the Court rules justly, justice is not guaranteed.

Many events led up to Plessy v. Ferguson. For example: after the Congress withdrew federal troops from the South in 1877, conditions for blacks deteriorated. The government pushed blacks into an inferior position. The government took action to prevent blacks from voting immediately.

They embarked poll taxes, "grandfather clauses". They also segregated on trains, in parks, schools, restaurants, theaters, swimming pools, and even cemeteries. If blacks broke these segregation laws, they were likely to end up either in prison or dead!

The case of Plessy v. Ferguson was a very important case in American History because it enforced segregation even making it legal, and made segregation a concrete reality for the people of the United States. It began with a man called Homer Plessy. Plessy was 7/8 white and only had 1/8 drop of black blood in him, but under Louisiana law, was considered black. In 1890, Louisiana passed a law providing that "all railway companies carrying passengers in their coaches in this state shall provide equal but separate accommodations for the white and colored races, by providing two or more passenger coaches for each passenger train, or by dividing the passenger coaches by a partition so as to secure separate accommodations. " Plessy believed that the law was unjust and so he challenged the law by refusing to leave the white railroad car. He was arrested and taken to trial. At this trial he argued that the Separate Car Act violated the Thirteenth and Fourteenth Amendments to the Constitution. But he was found guilty. Plessy then appealed the decision to the Supreme Court of Louisiana. Again his case was upheld. Plessy appealed again in 1896 to the Supreme Court of the United States. Homer Plessy was found guilty once again. The impact of the court's decision was a harsh one. It created a reality that was a nightmare to many. Their lives would be changed dramatically. They would officially be separated and considered low down in society.

Plessy v. Ferguson was the law of the land until 1954, when it was finally, successfully overturned by Brown v. Board of Education. In 1954, a little girl named Linda Brown in Topeka, Kansas had to walk 5 miles to school. She did not get recess and could not play with any of the other children who were all white. Her parents filed a case to the US Supreme Court saying that there is no way blacks and whites could get equal education if they were separated. The court ruled that separate is not equal.

The amount of time between Plessy v. Ferguson and Brown v. Board of Education shows just how long it took to get justice for blacks from the Supreme Court. It amazes me that our government could even question if blacks have the right to justice. It should be basic knowledge for us to know that it is wrong to treat any people so unjustly. Just to prove my point here are some questions you can ask yourself: are blacks human beings just like whites? Do blacks and whites both have feelings and needs? And finally, is the only difference between blacks and whites is that they have a different complexion? I am confused as to why so many people, including Justices on our Supreme Court would not answer yes to all these questions. How could anyone who had any intelligence think it was acceptable to treat blacks differently?

Fortunately the Court did come to its senses in Brown v. Board of Education. Yet just because The US Supreme Court ruled that separate is not equal it did not mean that blacks were automatically treated equally. After Brown v. Board of Education happened, there needed to be the Civil Rights Movement, in which many people were involved to push society to change. Two people who led the Civil Rights Movement were Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. We must acknowledge that it was not only those people, there were others working and helping the same cause. There were many ways that they impacted The Civil Rights Movement. They gave speeches, wrote letters, led marches, held meetings and many other strategies. They also endured mental and physical hardships. Only through the Civil Rights Movement did the promise of Brown actually get achieved. These people were poor, wealthy, high class, low class, black, some white, short and tall. Basically, there was a wide range of different kinds of people. Not everyone automatically changed their frame of mind when The US Supreme Court ruled separate is not equal. There were still many people out there who were racist and wanted to keep blacks in an inferior position.

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Source by Michael Cooper

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While I applaud the efforts of the fast food industry in attempting to provide vegetarian and more healthful alternatives to the crap they already sell on a daily basis, I have to point out shortcomings and defects in their attempts to provide vegetarian and healthy alternatives that sabotage or defeat the whole purpose of attempting to provide healthier and meat-less (vegetarian) products.

Is health or the wellbeing of the American people the main objective in selling vegetarian products or is it financial gain? Unfortunately for all the people who want to believe the fast food industry is coming around and becoming more health conscious, the fast food industry's objective in selling vegetarian items such as the veggie burger is strictly commercial, at least right now or presently.

Post why? Because until the vegetarian items are completely lacking animal byproducts, the promoting and selling of vegetarian items is to deceive fast food consumers into believing that they have a choice in eating meatless or healthier items and products, which just is not true

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Take McDonald's, Burger King, and the Habit for example. They all sell a veggie burger. But that veggie burger patty (if the patty itself is not entirely vegetable based) is cooked in ANIMAL LARD number one, and number two, cooked on the same grill that meat (DEAD ANIMAL FLESH) is cooked on.

All meat contains parasites and worms, and the ugliest ones that you could ever see with the human eyes. I know this personally as I have done the personal research (and have been presented research from Doctah B, Bro. Tarik, and others in the Los Angeles area) and have the nauseating photographs to show you. TOTALLY GROSS!

Some people thought they were avoiding animal byproducts by only eating French fries from the fast food restaurant, not knowing that most fast food restaurants such as McDonald's were cooking their fries in vegetable oil mixed with beef juice. That's right! McDonald's add beef juice to its cooking oil for flavor, in addition to spraying the fires with a sugar solution, freezing them and shipping them off to McDonald's franchises, and after cooking the sugar sprayed fries in beef juice (oil), sodium chloride (salt ) is added and you have one of the most addictive products in America – McDonald's French fries!

Take Subway for example, a place I used to eat at often in my early vegan days and while I was in the Corporate world. I had my places to eat at and menus to choose from. However, eating out was the exception to the rule and not the rule, as I normally prepared my own lunch. But Subway was right across the street from my place of employment and the food was much lighter than the stuff sold at the more general fast food establishments.

However, as I became more spiritual and health conscious, it started to bother me eating at establishments that served vegetarian products alongside with meat or flesh products. I used to order the Veggie Max sub sandwich from Subway. But the soy based Veggie Max patty was in a container or bin next to bacon (pig's back end). This was not a far distance for the microscopic parasites and worms to crawl from the bacon bin to the veggie patty bin. Also, the veggie patty was cut in two with the same knife used to cut meat with. You see, it really does not matter if you're health conscious or vegan or vegetarian and the person preparing your food (or product) is not. To the fast food employee, they're just preparing another product totally oblivious to strict food sanitary preparation ethics and principles.

Another thing to point out about the Subway Veggie Max sub or sandwich is that it was (1) cooked (actually, RADIATED) in a microwave oven, (2) cooked or radiated in the same microwave oven as meat or flesh products (pork worms can not be killed in heat because of a heat-resistant shell that forms around the worm in very high temperatures, and the only substance that can penetrate or break open that shell is the hydrochloric acid of the human body).

One day while out on the town with my children here in Glendale, California, my daughter wanted some noodles or Chow Mein and I think some vegetable-fried rice or egg rolls from Panda Express, I really can not remember exactly the items, but I do remember asking the Panda Express employee to prepare an exclusively vegetarian plate – NO MEAT OR MEAT-BYPRODUCTS WHATSOEVER, ie vegetable-fried rice, Chow Mein, steamed vegetables, and to my utter shock, the employee honestly told me that NOTHING at Panda Express was vegetarian. Absolutely nothing! I said, "Even the vegetable-fried rice, noodles, and steamed vegetables?" He said "That's right, Sir!" With a discombobulated look on my face, the employee then told me that Panda Express pours chicken juice on all of its items. So now I'm thinking about the time when time compelled me to get something on the go and I got what I thought was completely vegetarian from Panda Express.

And of course, I've heard similar accounts from my good Vegan comrades as well. So if you want to know a thing, ask. And by all means, do not presume.

If you think those vegetarian corn dogs at Hot Dog On-A-Stick are vegetarian, think again! They contain egg whites (in the bread batter).

I also used to eat the vegetarian burritos at Baha Fresh Mexican Grill. I started getting headaches. Post why? White flour tortillas cooked on the same grill as the slaughtered flesh (meat). So what did I do to cure the problem? I Left those burritos alone and I have been fine ever since.

I remember my early vegan days of 1997 and 1998 and thinking I was not eating any animal parts or byproducts whatsoever only to discover that those black beans I was eating from El Pollo Loco contained chunks of chicken. One day while eating these black beans, I noticed a strange substance in them. When I picked the substance up and closely analyzed it, I was disgusted to be holding a piece of chicken in my hand. Boy did I feel nauseated at this revelation and discovery. I had to let those beans go no matter how good they tasted. I refuse to let taste disillusion me into a state of poor health and into an early grave.

Vegetarian does not mean vegan! Vegan means "completely animal free, including dairy products and eggs," whereas vegetarian means "meat-free but not dairy / eggs-free." A vegetarian burrito at a fast food restaurant may contain cheese and sour cream (congealed cow snot or mucus). Some veggie burger patties may also contain cheese. Cheese is from an animal so how can it be animal free? While many health conscious folks and would be vegans enjoy Boca Burgers, some brands contain egg whites and cheese, so start reading the ingredient list on the box.

So although McDonald's now has a veggie burger, just know that its veggie burger is cooked in beef oil, in addition to the fact that the veggie burger is centered between two white, refined grain buns, conventionally grown iceberg lettuce (the worst lettuce to eat and the most nutritionally deficient plant to eat) and genetically engineered tomatoes (if you want lettuce and tomatoes on your veggie burger). The same thing can be said of Burger King and the Habit's veggie burgers.

However, if you're on the road or out and about in society and must make a choice to eat something that is not so insalubrious, it would be a good idea to experience around with a major fast food chain's veggie burger rather than give in to the traditional crap that has been served over the years and that you always bought and ate. However, it is better (and wiser) to seek out vegan restaurants before you actually hit the town (if you're a health conscious individual or vegan).

I know how difficult it is to be vegan (at first) and to not have vegan eateries so easily and readily accessible, especially if you live in a small town. I'm thankful that the Greater Los Angeles area and Southern California in general is loaded with vegan spots around town to get something wholesome and nutritious to eat. The same is true for other big cities around the nation such as New York City, Atlanta, San Diego, San Francisco-Oakland Bay area, etc.

Having you're the if trouble The locating vegan eateries around the nation, contact Friends of Animals at Bill@friendsofanimals.org or (203)656-1522 for a possible listing of vegan restaurants.

You're in the if the Greater Los Angeles area Hotels , you may contact us at Http://www.DHERBS.com for a listing of vegan (and vegetarian) restaurants.

Eating healthy is a journey, discipline, and lifestyle and does not come without challenges in the early stages. However, as you become more health conscious, you'll discover more healthy places to eat at while out on the town.

Thank you for reading! PEACE, LOVE and LIGHT!

Following article was compliments this of Www.dherbs.com and Djehuty Ma'at-Ra, The People's Herbalist

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Source by Djehuty Ma'at-Ra

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Who knows the secret of the fountain of youth? After all, it always makes good sense to take advice from those who know what they're talking about – especially if they have proven results.

As far as we know, Okinawa has the healthiest people on earth. How do we know this? Well, to begin with, they have a higher number of centurions (100 years or older) per capita than any other country in the world – more than three times those in America. Plus, compared with the high US incidence of heart disease, Okinawans have just a minimal risk. They also have 80% less breast and prostate cancer, 50% less colon and ovarian cancer and 40% fewer hip fractures.

What are their secrets to better health and longevity? It's very simple and relatively easy to follow.

Secret # 1 is maintain a positive, optimistic attitude. Okinawans believe that everything in life works itself out in the long run. With this attitude, there's no need to worry. They intentionally live a calm, peaceful life with little stress. When they work, it's at their own pace, rather than putting pressure on themselves to get things done in a hurry. Experts believe this relaxed way of being is definitely good for health and longevity.

Secret # 2 is cultivate strong relationships. Okinawans often get together with friends, family and in groups to just hang out, chat and laugh or to offer support to one another. Endless studies have shown that people are healthier when they have good relationships and an active, positive social life. They live longer and have less tendency to get sick.

Secret # 3 is eat a very healthy diet. It's considered to be especially important that the traditional Okinawa diet is both simple and wholesome. It consists mainly of fish that's rich in protein and omega-3 oils and plant food that's high in vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Plus, they eat less food – between 500 and 1,000 fewer calories per day than the average American or people from other "modern" countries. Eating a healthy, low calorie diet greatly reduces their risk of health problems related to overweight and increases their chance of longevity.

Secret # 4 is lead an active life. Most of Okinawans get plenty of exercise. They walk a lot, work in their gardens and practice traditional martial arts like tai chi.

Secret # 5 is refrain from bad habits. There are very few older Okinawans who smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol.

However, sadly enough, good health and longevity is more than likely not in the future of the next Okinawa generation. Because of outside influences, most of the young people eat a much more "modern" commercial diet. This group already has the highest rate of obesity in Japan. Plus, many of the younger set have changed other essential health habits – for example, 60% of younger Okinawan men smoke.

It makes better sense to follow the example of the elders who have positive attitudes, strong relationships, good social lives, eat wholesome and light, exercise regularly, work at a relaxed pace and refrain from smoking and drinking. Simple as it is, those are the Okinawa health secrets to living a long, happy, healthy life.

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Source by Michael Byrd

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The Black Card, The Centurion Card … which ever name you use, it's still the the most exclusive and elusive credit card in the world. I am seeing it more often than I used to, maybe it's the circle I travel in, maybe it's people are making more money, or possibly American Express is just inviting more card members than in years past (although American Express will not disclose how many members actually have Black Cards).

I see this remarkably heavy VIP card in restaurants, hotels and nightclubs all around the world, which is all very normal … but the other day I saw a lady use her Black Card to purchase a $ 2.00 espresso at Starbuck's.

Hmm – so I have the Platinum Card (which I love, I know weird to love a credit card, but I do have strong emotional feelings toward my little platinum piece of plastic), and I'm wondering, what does it take to get a Centurion Card Invite? Do I need to be a Academy Award winning actress, maybe a politician with a very wealthy wife or a business mogul buying twenty-five thousand dollar dinners each week? Is getting a Black Card Invite harder than getting into A Small World?

There is a lot of gossip about what it takes to get this card. I wanted to hear it directly from the source, so I contacted American Express directly. Here's what they're willing to disclose:

# 1: The Centurion Card is Invite Only. There's no online application and no, your friend that works for American Express probably can not get you in. They have criteria (which they will not completely discuss) but it definitely includes high spending. I asked them if the number was $ 250,000 a year and it was neither confirmed nor denied. But it was stated that they look at the card member overall, not just spending habits. Maybe it's like dating where they just want someone with a great personality and enjoys long walks on a beach (except the beach will probably have to be in Bali if you're hoping to get the Centurion Card).

# 2: There is a one- time initiation fee of $ 5,000 billed to all new Centurion accounts. It's kinda like becoming a member of a very private club with great benefits such as access to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, exclusive culinary and cultural events around the world. You also great incredible personalized service superior than any you could imagine and assistance in making your wildest dreams (and most ridiculous requests) come true!

# 3: Each year the annual fee is $ 2,500. Again you're paying for the benefits people. If you travel around the world, need super specialized service and all the other incredible benefits, it's a small price to pay! Plus if you can get this card, you're so loaded that you will not even feel the hit of $ 2,500 once a year!

So there it is, The exclusive and elusive Black / Centurion Card. Now, go out spend enough, travel a lot and maybe someday this welcome kit will show up in your mailbox!

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Source by Kimberly Ann Murgatroyd

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If you are of Czech ancestry or just interested in the Czech culture, you'll be glad to know there are several vibrant Czech communities scattered across the United States. Here is a top ten list of communities with festivals celebrating the Czech culture …

Throughout America, there are numerous communities where people of Czech heritage settled over the decades. Many of these communities celebrate this heritage with an annual festival that brings together people who enjoy the music, food and cultural traditions.

Each of the communities listed have an annual festival, and most are two or three days in length and held over a weekend. You can find more details about each festival at our website.

Here are our top ten favorites:

Tabor, South Dakota: Usually held the 3rd weekend of June, this fest often draws 10,000 people, which dwarfs the actual town itself. Tabor has a population of about 500.

Wilber, Nebraska: This central Nebraska community not far from Lincoln has an authentic cultural shopping district on its main street downtown. It was named the Czech capital of the US in 1987. The celebration is usually held the last weekend in July or early August.

Victoria, Texas: About 45 minutes north of Corpus Christi, Victoria is a great small Texas town that celebrates both barbecue and its heritage.

West, Texas: Held in early September , this weekend celebration attracts upwards of 25,000 visitors and has been held continuously since 1976.

Wilson, Kansas: Held on the last weekend of July, you'll find an authentic beer garden, beauty pageant, and lots of authentic food in this small central Kansas community.

Yukon, Oklahoma: This is an Octoberfest of sorts and is held on the first Saturday of October. Food, drink, music, and entertainment abound.

Clarkson, Nebraska: This northeast Nebraska community hosts its annual heritage festival in late June. It is a three day event that draws visitors from several surrounding states.

St. Louis, Missouri: Held in April, this spring fest features cooking demonstrations, fashion show, and a bountiful dinner.

Lincoln, Nebraska: One of the more active heritage communities and the capital of Nebraska, this vibrant little city holds a spring fest with an emphasis on music, crafts, and authentic food.

Taborville, Ohio: Taborville is about 25 miles east of Cleveland. They hold a one day celebration usually on a Sunday in July.

The biggest Czech communities in America are in central Texas, Nebraska, and the greater Chicago area. Near west suburban Chicago has some of the best Czech restaurants in the country, with authentic food, drink, and decor.

If we had to name our favorite Czech restaurant, it would be the historic Bohemian Cafe in Omaha, Nebraska, just south of downtown. In operation since the 1920's, it does not get more authentic than this! Portions are lovingly prepared, generous, and inexpensive. If you happen to visit Omaha, this is a great place for lunch or dinner.

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Source by Jim Hofman

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In American society, issues of race and social class are entwined together like a chain of DNA. One can not have an honest discussion about race without looking at the equally important issue of class since the two are closely linked. Although discussions of race and class are often avoided because these type of issues make people uncomfortable, Hurricane Katrina and the various television newscasts that followed stripped away the curtain to America's dirty little secret: there are many people in American society who have been unable to escape the double jeopardy of being born African American and poor.

The four readings by Sklar, et. al., Oliver & Shapiro, Mantsios, and Bartlett & Steele in the text (Ore, pgs. 69-99) illustrate how race and class was socially constructed for the advancement of Whites and the making up of a social class of poverty-stricken african-Americans who could be blamed for everything wrong in society. Furthermore, all four articles reflect how these two systems of oppression are interlocked in a never-ending structure of domination (matrix of domination), as stated in the text.

In the article entitled "Race, Wealth, and Equality, Oliver and Shapiro discusses how three historical events in American society – the Reconstruction, the suburbanization of America, and contemporary institutional racism has lead to a vast amount of income inequality between Blacks and Whites. Although American society had several opportunities to make amends to African-Americans by giving them same economic advantages Whites took for granted, it never happened because Blacks would be on the same economic playing field as Whites. That is why there is such a large gap in wealth between Blacks and Whites in American society.

The Mantsios'article takes this discussion about the large wealth gap between Blacks and Whites further by examining how the media, owned by the ruling class, has played a major role in distorting views about economics by pretending the ruling class do not exist and poor Blacks are the dregs of society. The media with its 'magic' can make the sins and harshness towards African-Americans disappear by pretending it is their fault that they are poor.

By doing this, upper and middle-classed Americans learn to fear and loathe poor Blacks and refuse to make the connection between systematic racism and high poverty levels amongst African-Americans.

In a similar vein, "The Growing Wealth Gap" describes how crooked but legal dealings between corporations and politicians has led to work wages stagnating for decades and millionaires turning into billionaires. This article also made reference to the Oliver and Shapiro article, illustrating how African-Americans have little, if no net worth and even if differences in income, occupation, and education were removed, White income would still be higher than Blacks due to the racial barriers that have kept them stagnated for centuries. Bartlett and Steele discuss that although the American government slashed welfare benefits for the needy, it subsidizes large corporations at the expense of the taxpayers on a regular basis. It is okay for corporate America to be on welfare but welfare for corporations is called "incentives." Corporate America can do this because they have good Public Relations, meaning the media to help sell economic dreams to the unsuspecting American public, going back to Mantsios article. All four of these articles are connected because they reflect that although the economic system in America was built build on the backs of African-Americans, they can not share in its riches.

After reading this material, one can not help but think about the mostly African-American and poverty stricken victims of Hurricane Katrina and how much American society is to blame for their economic situation. They were not only the victims of a horrible natural disaster but victims of a system that has historically kept them on the last rung of the economic ladder. The victims of this tragedy for the first time had my face and economic background. I am an African-American single mother who was receiving welfare benefits at the time Hurricane Katrina occurred who could not and still can drive and my family would have been one of the many labeled "refugees" if I lived in New Orleans. Although I was an active participant in the creation of my past situation, being told that I could not attend a four year college because it would take too long by a TANF case worker tells me how much the system is against people like me even when you are trying to do the right thing.

Observing a White supervisor stir up competition between African-Americans and Hispanics on the workplace showed me how much corporate America is against the advancement of minorities. Living in a neighborhood that is forty minutes from downtown Chicago but is surrounded by vacant lots filled with trash tells me that America has forgotten about a certain segment of people based on their skin color and economic background. Unless there is a fundamental change in the redistributation of the wealth and racist attitudes in American society, the wealth gap between Blacks and Whites will only get larger.

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Source by Kathy Henry

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Born in Tehran, I'm happy to be legally in the United States. As a European college educated female professional, I'd gladly support Donald Trump in the general election this fall. This is a good nation, and the clear-yet-ironic signal that it could be even better under Trump's unorthodox leadership is the amazing breadth of opposition to the Republican Party's front runner.

It's obvious why Democrats oppose Mr. Trump, but ponder these questions. Why would insider Republicans spend millions to derail their own party's front runner? Why stop someone bringing millions of new voters, lining up in record numbers at primary polling precincts? Answer – because political insider's pet special interests are threatened, period. Everything else is arguably a deliberate dodge, detraction or distraction.

Mr. Trump is obviously no politician. That's part of his entertaining, un-PC appeal. At the 40,000 foot level, Mr. Trump's foreign and domestic policies make good, common sense.

Example, why would the US accept:

– A half-trillion dollar annual trade imbalance with China,
– Allow millions of American jobs to go to China,
– Spend hundreds of millions in defense against China and others,
– And then borrow the money from China to pay federal deficits? Hello?

Is not that unimaginably ignorant? Yet the two major party's brain trusts have their fingerprints all over those policies.

It's Donald Trump who pounds away on:

– Trade – China, Mexico, Middle East oil, etc.,
– The tragedy of vets poorly treated by VA hospitals,
– Backing the men and women in blue,
– The outrage of not enforcing US immigration laws,
– Banning unvetted Muslims coming to America, after jihadi terrorists slipped into Europe and the US as "refugees,"
– Who else claims a plan and asserts the need to pay off the staggering federal debt,
– Repatriating trillions of dollars off-shored by high taxes and job-killing regulations,
– On becoming the job-creating president,
– Among other issues resonating with millions across the political, economic and educational spectrum.

Proof he can be "presidential" was given during his address to AIPAC.

Having listened to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Senator Bernie Sanders debate, they may be more polite than their GOP rivals, but it's obvious each has huge policy problems.

Examples. As sincerely passionate as Senator Sanders seems, how can he imagine universal federal medical care working for over 330 million, when government can not properly run healthcare for several million veterans?

Or with President Barack Hussein Obama admitting to Chris Wallace on a Sunday morning show that the biggest mistake of his administration was 'having no day after plan' for Libya-post the US intervention; that points directly to then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Clinton bragged about her influence in toppling Muammar Muhammad Abu Minyar al-Gaddaf. What most Americans call ISIS or ISIL, in the Middle East is known as "Daesh" (or Da'ish). Whatever you call them, they now control large parts of Libya. That failed policy was created by the POTUS Obama / Hillary Clinton team. Thanks, Madam Secretary …

ICYMI, as an Iranian-born professional woman, I agree with Mr. Trump that the deal giving Iran $ 150 billion was incredibly flawed.

Democrats have lurched far left. Communist and socialist systems are a proven failure. Just look at Korea to see the superiority of free markets vs. state socialism. North Korea is an economic basket case, while the South is vibrant. The more America moves towards socialism, is it any wonder our economy and people suffer?

Crony capitalism controls DC. "The System's" profiteers are trying desperately to stop Donald Trump's self-funded campaign.

Professionally, we manage the manufactured home (MH) industry's two largest trade media sites. Working with MH firms of all sizes, we know the following first-hand. Though the MH Industry is over 6 years into its recovery, poor public policies throttle faster growth. Growth yields tens of thousands of good, new jobs annually. Multiply that across scores of US industries …

There is plenty of blame to go around. Forget the blame-game! A leader is needed to refocus on restoring America's political and economic system. Let's revitalize growth, security and upward mobility.

You do not build a multi-billion-dollar empire unless you know how to manage situations and people. An objective review underscores Mr. Trump has intelligent America First principles that will make this land greater and safer again.

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Source by Soheyla Kovach

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One of the least known facts about the concept of race is that that it is a socially constructed ideology. Race and subsequent racism was created by White Europeans and Americans in order to justify the enslavement of millions of people for profit. When people feel guilty about an action they committed, they will often try to find ways of justifying their actions. This is what Europeans and Americans did when they decided to explain away the actions of human bondage by declaring Africans subhuman. In doing this, they changed the interpretation of history itself. A land where complex civilizations had existed for centuries was reduced to the "Dark Continent" and its people declared savages. All in the name of profit for the status quo and converting the "natives" to Christianity. The history of Africa was rewritten to make Whites the conquerors who 'civilized' the natives.

Although 'race' as a description of the physical condition probably dates back to the dawn of the human species, most scholars agree that it was primarily through European expansion in the 16th to the 19th century that 'race' as a physical description emerged. It was when European colonizers, whose aim was mainly to seek out valuable primary products such as sugar, tin, rubber and human labor, came into contact with 'native' populations who were 'people of color' that racism became a dominant force in Western society. In order to maintain control of these populations, they were defined as inferior human beings primarily because of their different cultural practices as well as their not being White, the desired and 'normal' skin color. Pushing such people to the margins did not stop European men from sexually mixing with local women producing, wherever colonialism prospered, a so-called 'mixed' race of people. Thus, race as a biological factor was constructed in racism and became a major factor in racial discrimination. This ideology rapidly spread throughout Europe and other areas such as North America, spreading the doctrines of alleged racial inferiority.

This ideology of racial dictatorship and hierarchy quickly took root in American society by the signing of a famous document, "The United States Constitution." This document clearly states, 'We the People of the United States.' The question proposed from this statement is, who exactly are "the People?" It certainly was not the enslaved Africans because they were considered to be three fifths of a human being. In addition to the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence also posed many questions of racism. The Declaration of Independence was written to sever ties in which people were denied their unalienable rights. However, the Constitution was still denying several people of their life, liberty, and or the pursuit of happiness. It is obvious to see that the Constitution laid the framework for which a segregated, racial society was formed in America.

Enslaved Africans were just as human as the White men whose rights were secured through the signing of the Constitution, but their rights did not matter. Because they did not have any rights, they were forced to live in a society in which the government officials did not represent them. Equality and justice was not for all, just for wealthy, land-owning White men. The practice of discriminating on the basis of skin color was born and would be legal until the six decade of the twentieth century. Even in the new millennium, racial inequalities still plague America and until this country can admit the wrongs done to enslaved Africans and their ancestors, no one will be free.

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Source by Kathy Henry

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The American constitution ratified in 1789 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of the most successful constitutions in the world since it has remained almost unchanged to this day while at the same time remaining a major source of authority in the United States. However there has been some serious criticism of it over the years. This article will outline and address the main criticisms made to the American constitution by its critics [1].

The strongest criticism made to the American Constitution is that it is an undemocratic constitution. Critics point to the fact that the Federalist movement was explicitly anti-democratic at the time of the drafting and ratification of the American constitution. The Federalists were initially not an official party in the early days of the republic but later on became one of the main two parties in the initial years of American independence. The Federalists believed that absolute democracy leads to the abuse of power and tyranny. Critics argue the constitution places a lot of limits on democracy like the indirect election of the president, undemocratic election of senators (later fixed by the 17th amendment) and many checks and balances on the powers of the different branches of government. They point out that the founding fathers of the constitution believed in the principles of a "Republican Government" which in reality is a sort of elite democracy. Although the critics are correct with regards to the worries of the founding fathers in establishing absolute democracy they tend to confuse the actual text of the constitution which should be the main area of ​​concentration with the interpretations of it in the early days of the republic. Incorrect interpretations of the constitution are a completely separate matter and should be addressed in a different context. The actual text of the constitution places no major limit on elections and democracy [2].

The founding fathers like many other scholars in the world at the time believed that giving absolute democracy to the people will lead into chaos and eventually to tyranny. However their concern did not result in an undemocratic constitution. The fact that they placed many checks and balances on different branches of the government, such as how the President can veto legislation from Congress, does not necessarily mean that it is undemocratic. In fact, proponents argue that this approach is in tune with the real spirit of democracy in which a portion of the population can not force its will on the entire population. Also with regards to the indirect election of the President it should be pointed out that at the early days of the republic, States enjoyed a lot of independence and power. This was natural since they had just been united and looked with suspicion and rivalry at other states. The indirect election of the president was a way to keep the power in the states and at the same time make sure that no single state took control of the country.

Another major criticism made to the American Constitution is that it places too many restrictions on the government. Critics point out that compared to the constitution of other countries, 'technically' much more restrictions are place on the American government by the constitution especially with regards to the executive branch. As an example critics point to the fact that the president needs permission for major decisions like declaring war and the signing of major treaties. As pointed our earlier, state rights were a main point of concern at the time and these restrictions were mainly placed by the founding fathers in order to preserve the power and rights of the states and thus prevent the Federal government by overrunning the power of the states . Also looking from another perspective this can be seen as an advantage rather than a disadvantage in the sense that the president can not act alone and even though elected he or she still needs the approval of the people through their representative in congress for major decisions.

Critics also point to the fact that the constitution does not have clear boundaries between the power and authority of the main institutions and also regarding the power of the state and federal government. They argue that this has led to many confusions and also confrontation regarding the authority of institutions like the congress and the executive branch and also with regards to the power of the states and the federal government. Some scholars and analysts however see this as a one of the key reasons the constitution has been successful over the years. They believe that the very survival of the constitution has been due to the substantial room it has left for interpretation.

These scholars believe that being vague on controversial issues was the reason the constitution was ratified in the first place at a time when difference of opinion was very strong among the founding fathers. They point out that the reason a document drafted over two hundred years ago is still in use today is the fact that it has been drafted in a way that can be interpreted differently based on the time period and the circumstances otherwise it would have become gradually obsolete . To prevent misinterpretation and drastic changes in the path of the country the Supreme Court was given the exclusive task of interpreting the constitution.

In conclusion the US constitution remains one of the most progressive constitutions in the world. At the time of its ratification it was truly revolutionary in terms of providing equality and liberty for all its citizens. Even though there are has been some criticism to it in the past century most scholars agree that the US constitution with all its strengths and weaknesses is one of the most successful constitutions when compared to the constitution of other countries. The fact that it has remained almost unchanged to when it was ratified bears witness to its success.

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Source by Hamed Mousavi