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“What is Democracy? “Of the people, by the people, for the people” Abraham Lincoln. The word democracy comes from the Greek words “demos”, meaning people, and “kratos” meaning power; so democracy can be thought of as “power of the people”: a way of governing which depends on the will of the people.” Oxford languages
I can’t stand to start my posts with a quote or definition, but I had to get a working definition of democracy myself. Democracy has been ripped up, torn down, taken for granted and given an unrecognizable face. What?!
I remember the Black Panthers’ cry, “Power to the people!” Immediately, that cry conjured up revolutionary socialism that threatened the political and social norms of the USA. That cry was signaling the truth – in a democratic government, the power should belong to every American. Each government member should represent our voices and needs to encourage and enact an equitable nation. So far, we have not experienced this. Where does accountability start? Right In our own backyards.
Y’all know I live in Alabama. We are the guinea pig for Project 2025/Agenda 47. My daughter’s activist org. and other Black childcare providers across the state advocate for a hot topic in Bama – Women’s Reproductive Rights: Equitable Childcare Policy and Family Justice. Camille is the lobbyist. She tells me about the rampant posturing and egos of politicians looking out for their reelection and capitalism rather than the needs of the people (“the community-based providers on the ground”). She claims both parties fall prey to this disposition, leading to inaction for the people.
As Lobbyists, her team has to gain access to politicians to discuss bills on the floor. They primarily work to modify or kill bills enacted against their advocacy areas. They speak for the needs of constituents who might never get the ears of local politicians. They also speak during sessions related to their bills. I travel with her to Montgomery to support her. However, she will not let me go to the Statehouse while lobbying. She fears that I will not be able to contain my emotions. (Hmph…’think I can’t stand and deliver?) What?!
(Continue reading in spicy)
Founder, spicy...a blog by victorine
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