i am a liberal

A self-admitted conservative (and yes, a friend of mine) wrote “common sense, morals, responsibility, hard working...so glad Mitt went with Paul Ryan”.  To me, this implies these words only refer to the conservative persuasion. Ergo...

I am a liberal.  I am not a party voter, but if you checked my voting record, I vote Democrat 95% of the time.

I am a hard-working individual, having been in the workforce since I was sixteen. I will be happy to share my tax returns with you to prove it.

Alternatively, I have also collected unemployment in the course of my life.  This does not make me a bottom-feeder or a detriment to society.  I worked my ass off looking for a job during my four months off. I believe that welfare should only be a stage in life, not a way of life.

I am pro-choice. This does not make me immoral. Every person and every situation is different. While I likely would not encourage abortion, it’s not my body or my life.  Furthermore, it should be a viable (and safe) option in the cases of rape & incest, the health of the mother and/or the quality of life of the unborn.

I possess common sense.  Even my conservative friends will agree, penning me a “common sense liberal”. Why?  I understand that the budget needs to be balanced and the country as a whole needs to curb spending. I just disagree in HOW they want to balance the budget – largely on the backs of the middle class, poor and elderly.

I am a liberal. And I’m damn proud of it.

grinding gears 1.0

We'll call this a post about "what really grinds my gears" - because I most of the time I tend to write when someone or something aggravates me.  

A couple days ago, Starbucks posted this status message on Facebook:

We are proud to support Marriage Equality legislation in the Washington State Legislature. (read full article).  

This was awesome.  Granted, if I'm going out for coffee I'd much rather patronize Alterra or Stone Creek Coffee because they're local - but now I feel a bit better about going to a "big box coffee shop".  Hey, a girl needs a caramel frappucino every once in a while. Outside of my need for a java fix, it's nice to see a mega-corporation align with my views on an issue - especially one I've been involved with (some could say personally) for quite some time.  

One of my best friends from college came out to me seven months after we graduated.  My response was "That's nice, could you get me another beer."  A unique response?  Perhaps.  But the point was his that I didn't care if he was gay - he was still my friend.  That wasn't about to change.  And on that cold December day over a decade ago, my journey as a straight LGBT advocate began.  More than a handful of friends have come out to me since, probably because I won't judge and I accept people for who they are, not their sexual orientation.  Period.  And honestly, I feel every else should do the same (but we sure as hell know that isn't the case).

Back to this wonderful (and somewhat ballsy, seeing the issue at hand) post from Starbucks. I try to keep political banter to a minimum, so I simply "liked" the status.  Then I noticed a male friend posted this comment:

I am so glad I am no longer associated with this filthy corporation.

My initial response was "what the fuck?"   I fail to see why their stance on marriage equality is "filthy".  Seriously.  You can come at the religious angle all you want.  From what I choose to accept and translate from the collection of stories called the Bible, Jesus accepted EVERYONE - regardless of race, creed, religion, socio-economic status, etc. EVERYONE includes sexual orientation. Alienating and damning a whole facet of our population to hell is certainty not "Christian-like".  And I don't think Jesus would approve.

Religious views aside, It seems to me that legislation (and constitutional amendments) were supposed to grant citizens rights - not take them away.  With all the "exclusions" currently in our society, I seriously question the state humanity and our future.

To be in love with someone and be raising a family with someone and want to make that commitment and not be able to is ludicrous, just ludicrous. - Brad Pitt

palin = moron

Last fall, Sarah Palin characterized Michelle Obama's "Let's Move" anti-obesity campaign as an assault on individual rights.

"What she is telling us is that we can't trust parents to make decisions for their families in what we should eat," Palin told radio host Laura Ingraham. "Instead of a government thinking that they need to take over and make decisions for us according to some politician or politician's wife priorities, just leave us alone."

So tell me, how is this different from the GOP taking over and attempting to force legislation to dictate women's reproductive rights? 

Fucking idiot.

quote from this article

my (perceived) absence

Lá Fhéile Pádraig sona duit!

Or in plain English:  Happy St. Patrick's Day!

No, celebrating with a Guinness or two (as green beer is an abomination) is not the reason I've been a slacker (or at least that's my perception) in keeping up in the bloggerverse.   In fact, I've been online quite a bit - but just not here.

The reason for my (perceived) absence is three-fold:  creative ventures, reaction to a shitty Wisconsin governor and happy pills.

Creative ventures are indeed a good thing.  I landed my first official freelance gig as rjl creative in the form of a logo design.  Granted, it was for a law firm and thus, not very "outside the box" design - but I look at it as a foray into new territory.  I can do the whimsy as well as the traditional (even if the whimsy is way more fun). I may eventually get the logo on my website.  I've also been commissioned update the Southeastern Wisconsin Arts Guild blog - for which I designed the logo.  If you're looking for something to do in the arts community in SE WI, check this site out!  

On the "paying the bills job", I've been delving into the world of video editing (which I haven't done since college - and I'm sure the technology has evolved slightly) as well as learning about podcasts and RSS feeds.  As much as I love the graphic design aspect of my job, print media - while still present - is declining.  One can only go so far with graphic design and basic web skills, so I must evolve along with the marketing industry.  This is fine - learning new stuff is fun for me.  And no, I highly doubt this new found knowledge will produce the next SModcast-esque podcast.Who knew that my creative and technical skills would eventually merge?  It frightens me verily....

A shitty Wisconsin governor is not a good thing.  In fact, Scott Walker is a fucking douchebag.  During the past six weeks since his dictatorship over the state's government, I have been reading articles, blogs, etc. about how this doofus is stripping citizens of their rights and putting the state's future prosperity on the backs of the lower and middle class.  Additionally, I commend the Wisconsin 14 for fleeing the state and exposing the current regime for what it really is.  This is not what democracy looks like.

Well, I guess that tells you where I stand on the issues facing Wisconsin.  However, it has prompted me to be more involved in politics (which I strangely like) and stand up for causes I believe in.  Call it the proverbial fire under the ass.  As a result, I have gotten into debates (and some arguments) facebook - particularly regarding the Wisconsin situation.  And really, at this point, I don't care if you agree with me or not - at least realize there is another side to the story (even if I contend you're wrong).  If so inclined, I also have been posting frequently on my Twitter account - some political in nature, some completely random musings (i.e. damn this Greek yogurt is good).

Happy pills are a good-bad thing.  As some of you know, I was having health issues the past couple months.  I wasn't feeling like myself - extremely jumpy, having "worst case scenario thoughts", insomnia, etc.  After numerous tests (my cholesterol, vitamin levels, thyroid, blood sugar are all fine), I was diagnosed with GAD (general anxiety disorder).  Yes, this surprised me as much as anyone.  But in reviewing the past 2.5 years, I realized I've been through a lot of shit (with some good sprinkled in) and quite frankly, I'm surprised it took this long. 

I can tell you anxiety meds are not fun.  The first one gave me acid reflux - and for someone who never has even had heartburn prior to this, that was interesting.  The second one gave me killer headaches.  If that's what a migraine is like, I never want to experience one.  Finally, the third time is the charm (I hope).  It's been a week and so far, so good.  Although, this may hinder me in hoisting more that a couple pints 'o Guinness this evening. 

Sláinte! ~ Cheers!

against the MU grain

I was at brunch recently with some friends, and somehow we got on the topic of education - more specifically, attending college at Marquette.

I made the comment that had I graduated high school ten years later, I likely would not have gone to Marquette. Why? It's political and religious views, as well as belief and value system, have become increasingly conservative since I've attended, and thus been affiliated, with Marquette.

Granted, I don't expect Marquette to be left-wing liberal; it is a Catholic, Jesuit institution after all. For example:

You can't, and likely never will be able to, distribute condoms on campus. Remember the Catholic church's stances on premarital sex. And it still thinks one should only engage in sex for procreation. While I completely disagree with that (and would be a total hypocrite if I didn't) - it's the 21st century people are going to have sex at college. Period. They might as well be proactive and safe about it (considering the alternative). And why you think Planned Parenthood had a clinic 3 blocks from campus proper? Pure genius on their part.

The mandatory philosophy and theology credits. I was even quoted my senior yearbook stating this requirement should be done away with. Really. Yes, I know that these courses make up the foundation of a Jesuit, liberal arts education. In reality, I didn't mind the philosophy so much; if anything, it enhanced my critical thinking skills. Theology...well, I took the required intro course, Buddhism and Judaism. I was determined not to take another course that revolved around the Bible. As a result, I still know very little beyond the basics of the Bible - despite being raised Catholic. I did enjoy learning about different religions. However, today at Marquette they do not offer "outside" religion courses - all the theology courses are Bible-based.

Views on homosexuality. If you know me, you know my views on homosexuality are in direct conflict with the Catholic church and thus, Marquette. While it did recognize LGBTQ groups, they were not, and still are not, allowed to meet on campus. I guess this is better than nothing. And then in May there was the whole Jodi O'Brien fiasco. In brief: O'Brien is openly lesbian, a feminist, & professor and department chair at Seattle University (also a Jesuit institution). Her areas of study and research are in the areas of anthropology and sociology (specifically gender, sexuality and religion); including extensive research on lesbian sexuality and support for sex-sex marriage. Upon completion the interview process, she was offered the position of Dean of Arts & Sciences at Marquette. Now, one would think the selection committee would have done its due diligence and reviewed her academic work BEFORE offered her the position. If they had done so, O'Brien never likely would have been offered the position due to her views on same-sex marriage (which are in direct conflict with the "fine" Catholic church). I suspect the increasingly conservative board of directors and the Archdiocese of Milwaukee forced Marquette to rescind the offer.

Due to these developments, I often question Marquette and what they are teaching the current college generation. Academic freedom and acceptance of others should always remain intact as it ultimately makes all of well-rounded individuals. Yet apparently, Marquette believes "academic freedom" and "acceptance of others" only apply if it falls within its stringent belief and value systems.

When I was done essentially bashing my alma mater, one of my friends said, "But Marquette needs you. They need someone who doesn't think like the majority."

I thought about that statement. In a sense, she's right. I may be upset at and disagree with Marquette's stance on many issues. However, it proves not all associated with Marquette are right-wing nutcases.

And in the end, wouldn't it be ironic if I used what I learned at Marquette to question the institution itself?

citizens actually decide election outcomes

I swear I know some crazy, whacked-out conservatives (thank you Marquette University for introducing me to these folks...please note the sarcasm.)

This status message greeted me on my facebook newsfeed last night (although I didn't wholly get my thoughts together until now): (insert God-fearing conservative here) would like you to support Scott Walker, Rebecca Kleefisch and Ron Johnson when you vote but knows that ultimately God elects government leaders. This is why we try not to speak ill of our elected leaders even if we don't agree with their decisions, especially in front of our children. To God be the glory.

OK, I really don't have a problem with someone promoting/advertising for whom to cast your ballot, even if there is no fucking way I am voting for those candidates. I would like everyone to support Tom Barrett, Tom Nelson and Russ Feingold. Those are my political views and whom I feel ultimately are the best choices for Wisconsin. And yes, on some level, I think everyone should vote for the candidates I do. Sadly I likely will be in the minority thus will be drowning my sorrows with - ironically - red wine. Point being, in the USA we are able to vote - mostly without being ostracized or brutalized - for the our candidates of choosing.

My issue is the statement that "ultimately God elects government leaders". Correct me if I'm wrong, I still wholeheartedly believe that the citizens going to the polls and actually casting ballots will elect the next government leaders. Believing this statement would mean this election is already over whether or not one votes...so why bother? It also implies that we have no free will in the voting process. Isn't voting a symbol of freedom and living in the free world? I thought so. We, as citizens, are ultimately responsible for the outcome of these elections and the choices we make in general. Period. Anything otherwise would be preposterous.

I know I have supporters with my views and opinions on this. However, I did not expect one to respond to the comment (and I have no idea who this person is, but I kind of like them): I will teach my children that we're ultimately responsible for the choices we make, and the people we elect. Not to pass the buck to "God" when things go badly. But thanks for the advice.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. There people who are intelligent and hold themselves accountable out there.

(Note: There was a counter-response to the effect we rely on God for everything and not our government; and he's passing on a burden to his children. Somehow, I fail to see how teaching your child to hold him/herself accountable for actions/choices as passing a burden or a bad idea. Teaching children to rely on something/someone other than themselves seems to be a much worse idea.)

As for the second half of the statement, it is probably good practice not to speak ill of people in front of children in general - elected official or not. However, there are no children reading this so here it goes. I thought "W" was a moron and royally fucked this country for eight years. There is no way Obama could clean up his mess in 1.5 years, let alone four. But whether or not I personally voted for "W" or agreed with his policies (which I didn't), he was still the president of the USA and thus commands some (albeit a tiny, tiny iota) of respect. However, this does not mean I will stop badmouthing "W" or the projected Wisconsin governor anytime soon.

Bottom line: It is your privilege to vote as we live in a free country. Exercise that privilege. Make your voice heard. And when you do, vote Democrat. OK, really...go vote for whom you feel is the best candidate.

material issue?

But Will It Make You Happy? (Leah Hash for The New York Times)

She had so much.

A two bedroom apartment. Two cars. Enough wedding chine to serve two dozen people.

Yet Tammy Strobel wasn't happy. Working as a project manager with an investment management firm in Davis, Calif., and making about $40,000 a year, she was, as she put it, caught in the "work-spend treadmill".

So one day she stepped off.

Inspired by books and blog entries about living simply, Ms. Strobel and her husband, Logan Smith, both 31, began donating some of their belongings to charity. As the months passed, out went stacks of sweaters, shoes, books, pots and pans, even the television after a trial separation during which it was relegated to a closet. Eventually, they got rid of their cars, too. Emboldened by a web site that challenges consumers to live with just 100 personal items, Ms. Strobel winnowed down her wardrobe and toiletries to precisely that number.

Her mother called her crazy.

Today, three years after Ms. Strobel and Mr. Smith began downsizing, they live in Portland, Ore., in a spare, 400-square foot studio with a nice-sized kitchen. Mr. Smith is completing a doctorate in physiology; Ms. Strobel happily works from home as a Web designer and freelance writer. She owns four plates, three pairs of shoes and two pots. With Mr. Smith in his final weeks of school, Ms. Strobel's income of about $24,000 a year covers their bills. They are still car-free but have bikes. One other thing they no long have: $30,000 of debt.

See full article

This got me thinking...do the materialistic things really make us happy?

It's a thought-provoking question, especially after giving this article a read. I'd like to think I'm slightly ahead of the curve on this one, as I inadvertently started doing this 18 months ago. There's a bit of back-story, so bear with me.

In February 2009, Grandmom passed away after two-plus years of her health being compromised. Grandmom grew up during the depression and was poor as a child, thus the propensity to save everything...money, documents, clothes, etc. I understand this rationale and didn't think anything of it, until we went into her basement after the funeral. Holy crap, the term "pack rat" took on a whole new meaning. Why on earth would one save all this...well, crap?

This was the first epiphany. If got hit by the proverbial bus, who would sift through all my stuff? When I got home, I started spring cleaning...never mind that I was a month or so early. Clothes were donated, old documents were shredded - you get the idea. I think I might have even cleaned thought no one was coming to visit.

Fast forward a few months. It was just just me and Caye, as Lily had been put down in June 2009. Reassessing my living situation, I realized that having a two-story flat was pointless for me and one dog - especially since I rarely used the second level. Furthermore, the monthly dwelling payment was a little too high for my tastes (and one income). Truth be told, I was contemplating a move since the divorce was finalized in fall 2008 so the concept wasn't really new...taking action was.

Thus came the second epiphany. I could move to the area of the city I wanted. I have always loved the east side (by far my favorite Milwaukee "borough") and my search began. There was no way in hell I could afford a condo or house on the east side, so renting it was. Now, the issue was trying to find a place that had no breed and no weight restrictions for dogs. Well, I found that so the move was on. But it also begged the question: how does one downsize from a two-story, two-bedroom flat to a one-bedroom apartment?

Well, get rid of crap of course! Goodwill probably loved my frequent trips. Let's face it, I, of all people, do not need three sets of pots & pans. I also utilized craigslist.com, and I think I sold enough to actually cover a good chunk of my security deposit (now could someone just take my wedding dress, please?) So yes, all my worldly belongings are in a one-bedroom apartment minus what my mom wishes I would take from her house (sorry Mom, you'll have to keep SuperPickle for now) and storage bins. I realized when you have less room to put crap, it makes you think before you buy that cool home decor piece or random thing-a-ma-jiggie. Since I'm moved, I've spent a lot less money on "non-essentials" which isn't necessarily a bad thing. The significant drop in living expenses isn't bad either.

As a result I actually saved money. What a concept! And then I had a third epiphany. I wondered why I was paying a large chunk of change (read: rent or mortgage payment) for my car payment and insurance. Don't get me wrong, my Versa was awesome - but seeing I maybe drive 8000 miles a year did it make sense putting that much of my monthly income into a car? Thankfully, I had a clause that I could return the car if desired - and I took advantage of it. In late June, I became the proud owner of Clyde, a 1989 Camry. He's rough around the edges, but he's a good little car. And I really like not having any monthly car payment (outside of insurance) and owning it outright. I'll probably need another epiphany to determine what to do with those excess funds, but right now can you say savings account?

While 100 personal items total (I'm sure my hair products alone constitute 10 items) and dismissing my television all-together seems a bit (scratch that...a lot) drastic, maybe I can forgo the hair gel and kill my television for a few hours. And perhaps when I buy new clothes, I can donate some to Goodwill.

But I'm happy with what I have - both tangible and non-tangible - and I'm not too concerned with what I don't have. I figure if I don't have it, I don't really need it.

That kind of makes the material stuff insignificant, doesn't it?

chew on this chuckie...

I don't normally listen to Charlie Sykes on AM620-WTMJ. He's way to Republican-happy, Democrat-bashing for my tastes...and I can handle a bit 'o bashing.

However, today I just so happened to get into my car to hear Sykes state "All politicians lie." This had to be the most intelligent thing I'd heard from him. Wait for it... Then he decided to continue blabbering and ONLY name Democrats (read: President Obama) who lie and using low-ball tactics to get elected, thus leading to unfulfilled campaign promises.

Excuse me? Only Democrats lie to get elected? And what about Karl "Low-Ball Tactics" Rove? Didn't we have eight years of unfulfillment?

It should be obvious by now that I'm a Democrat and a relatively liberal one at that. And it really grinds my gears (thank you Peter Griffith) that people - especially conservatives - haven't even given Obama a chance to succeed, let alone fulfill any campaign promise. Obama still has three years to fulfill his campaign promises while "W" somehow managed not to fulfill promises over eight years.

Here are just a few examples of broken promises by the GOP:

• Promise: Make health insurance affordable for hard-working, low-income families. In 2000, 43 million Americans were without health insurance. Reality: Ten years later, 46 millions are without health insurance. Premiums have increased by 12.5%. Do the math. More people are currently uninsured and it's less affordable.
• Promise: Fully-fund the Pell grant program for first-year students with a maximum amount of $5100. Reality: The Pell grant amount was frozen at $4050 for three consecutive years. That's about $1050 short of $5100.
• Promise: Income tax cuts will benefit all Americans, especially moderate and low income families. Reality: The top 20% of earners received 70% of the tax cuts. This must be some new math I'm unaware of.
• Promise: The debt will be paid down to a historically low level. Reality: At the end of his term, the national debt was a record high of $7.3 trillion. This really needs no explanation.

And W couldn't even fulfill his promises with a Republican Congress.

Chew on that Chuckie.

information taken from Bush-Cheney website, CBS, Center for Policy & Budget Priorities, Census Bureau and USA Today

revelation: i'm an ass!

Due to the current political climate (especially this past week), each of our political persuasions are likely to be uncovered at some point. I don't really care what you align with; if it opens topics up for intelligent debate, even better. If we disagree on some issues, that's fine. Just don't try to ram your version of politics down my throat.

I will say I've had intelligent and insightful conversions with those on the other side of the fence (thank you Rob and Craig), but those are few and far between. While I don't openly divulge my political views (sans this week on the fb), I consider myself a liberal. Sorry Mom, I know you prefer me using just "Democrat", so for you I will be a Democrat liberal. (Note: Mom does not actually read this blog)

For some reason, that revelation seems to surprise people. And for the life of me, I'm not sure why. So, let's explore why their assumption is unfounded.

I went to Marquette University.
Marquette's defining statement states "Marquette is a Catholic, Jesuit university dedicated to serving God by serving our students and contributing to the advancement of knowledge." The mission reads, "Our Mission is the search for truth, the discovery and sharing of knowledge, the fostering of personal and professional excellence, the promotion of a life of faith, and the development of leadership expressed in service to others. All this we pursue for the greater glory of God and the common benefit of the human community."

Yeah, I can see that - if you look at it at face value. My guess is that I overlooked any preposition or phrase that explicitly mentioned God or religion. I'm also certain that my parents thought me going to a Jesuit university would strengthen my religious faith. Epic fail.

However, if you look deeper into Marquette's mission there are four core values: excellence, leadership, service and faith - all of which we (per Marquette) should strive for in our lives. I would think that any educational entity would strive to instill the values of excellence and leadership in its students, at least on some level. As for service, I believe that everyone should dedicate time to service. While this value was instilled through my dad's own volunteer efforts, my involvement with service organizations at Marquette fostered it. Faith is likely only prominent in religious institutions. While usually referenced as a religious term, faith can also elude to trust in yourself and/or others or to belief in something. To quote Dogma, "It doesn't matter what you have faith in, just that you have faith."

I think I just partially de-religioned part of Marquette's core values. Thank you for teaching me to think critcially!

I was raised Catholic.
So was JFK...and he remains the only Roman Catholic president this country has elected. He was also a Democrat, and likely could have been one of the greatest presidents ever had his life not been cut short. But I digress.

The Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life conducted a poll on religion in America. Overall, their study confirmed that the more often people attend services, the more likely they are to be conservative. Of course this varies based upon specific religion and its general doctrine and theology. (ie. Mormons are conservatives, atheists are liberal). I used every excuse I could to get out of church, as I don't believe you need to go to services to "prove" your worthiness. I am liberal. My mom goes to church religiously (pun intended). She is a Democrat as of 2002.

In fact, 38% of Catholics consider themselves as leaning to the left. I believe this is due in part to the strong dedication to service to others in the hopes of leading to a more just society. This "service to others" DOES NOT include the allegations against current and former Catholic priests.

It is true that historically, a vast majority of Catholics have a strong opposition to abortion. According to the findings, this isn't necessarily the case. Catholics are split on the issue: 48% believe abortion should be legal in most cases, with 45% illegal. The Catholic church itself, with all its doctrine and high-and-mightiness, may be opposed; but apparently its followers live in the 21st century.

I am not a follower and refer to myself as a "recovering Catholic", but I indeed live in the 21st century.

Strong military history

Numerous members of my family (grandddad, uncle, cousins) have served in the armed forces and my parents were civilian employees. The Navy, to be exact. Traditionally, the armed forces and the GOP go hand in hand. In a non-scientific poll of my friends and family currently serving or having served in the armed forces, this would be proven correctly.

However, this "tradition" can also foster ignorance (and perhaps stupidity). Case in point: during the 2008 election, a co-worker saw that I voted prior to coming into work. The conversation that ensued:

Ignoramus: Oh did you vote for your man McCain?

Me: How is McCain my man?

Ignoramus: Your dad was in Navy so you voted for McCain because he's a Navy veteran.

Me: Umm, no I didn't.

It's true. I proudly voted for Obama. And you know what? So did my dad.

Overall, I believe it's the experiences (not circumstantial facts) that leads one to their beliefs - religious, political and otherwise - that make each one of us the person we are today. My parents gave me the blueprint; I built the model known as Bec. Politically, Bec is a liberal Democrat.

But in the grand scheme of things, it's a model that really doesn't fit into any mold.

my tax dollar

Planned Parenthood clinics perform about one third of all abortions in the United States, about 300,000 abortions in 2007-2008, and they receive $350 million in tax dollars annually. I don't want my taxes being spent this way.

When I first thought of my rebuttal to yet another of this friend's fb status updates, I was going to focus on areas in which I did not my tax dollars being spent. Then I reconsidered; this approach would be successful in allowing me to vent my displeasure, but beyond that it wouldn't accomplish much. Rather, I have decided to focus on the nuts and bolts of what Planned Parenthood actually does and how these tax dollars indeed provide necessary services.

While I was at Marquette, I went to Planned Parenthood for my annual checkup and to receive my birth control pills; years later, I still do so. Why? As a college student, I believed being on the pill (or any form of birth control) was better than the alternative of bringing an unplanned child into the world. Today, due to being older and hopefully wiser, it still beats the alternative AND I wholeheartedly believe in the purpose and existence of Planned Parenthood.

The root of Planned Parenthood's mission and actions is that all women should have access to the full range of reproductive health care. This includes (but is not limited to) birth control, breast and cervical cancer screenings, and testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections. Their primary goal is prevention; reducing the number of unintended pregnancies in our communities via preventative healthcare measures and education.

In fact, preventative and primary health care is what Planned Parenthood predominantly does; more than 90% of their resources (or more than $315 million in tax dollars) are allocated to these services. By providing these services, Planned Parenthood helps women and families make responsible decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, their lives and their futures.

As a part of protecting their health and the health of their families, women facing an unintended or unwanted pregnancy must have access to safe, abortion services without interference from the government or anti-choice extremists. In case you missed it, Roe v. Wade (1973) constitutionally and legally protects a woman's access to a medically safe abortion. Decisions about whether or not to have an abortion is up to the individual, not the government; and should be made by a woman in consultation with her family and doctor, not by politicians. This is a right that must be protected.

However, the real issue is to reduce unintended and unwanted pregnancies in the first place. How is this done? By increasing access to affordable birth control and comprehensive sex education. Yes, sex education does include abstinence. However, with over 50% of teenagers (a percentage that is higher in low-income urban areas) losing their virginity before high school graduation, preaching abstinence is not wholly effective.

Teenagers, and the populous as a whole, need to be educated on the different options of birth control available and the way to properly use these options; as well as the consequences of not utilizing what is available to them. By providing the correct resources and working together, we (in theory) can produce an educated population equipped with the knowledge to make responsible and informed decisions.

Planned Parenthood provides necessary services to women and their families - preventative and primary health care, affordable birth control and sex education.

I want my tax dollars being spent this way.

(additional information and statistics provided by Planned Parenthood and The Kaiser Family Foundation)

not propaganda

This morning, I was greeted by the following status message from a fb friend:
Life has suffered and been destroyed constantly in Haiti over the last decade and it took a massive earthquake for people to decide to help. What will it take for our country to recognize and stop the suffering and destruction of the unborn?

Sigh.

Haiti has never been what we would call a stable country - plagued by periods of political unrest, economic decline and general abuse of human rights. The recent earthquake, while sad and devastating, adds to the tumultuous history of this island country.

I agree that, due to natural disasters and a militant dictatorship, life has indeed suffered and been destroyed in Haiti. And we Americans tend to be a reactive bunch, thus it takes an event of mass and devastating proportions for us to take action. I don't think many would argue with either statement.

However, to use a disastrous event like the Haitian earthquake to promote religious and/or political propaganda?

Regardless of your political or religious persuasion, that's just wrong.

People have lost loved ones, their homes, their whole livelihood. We, as human beings, have unified in our humanitarian efforts to help those who have been affected - whether it be donating money to the Red Cross, participating in an organized fundraiser, or for those who are able, going to Haiti to help directly.

They say there is a time and place for everything - in this case, compassion for our fellow human beings.

Not propaganda.