This morning I learned that Sarah Palin was scheduled to be at the Home Depot Center in Carson. For those that don’t know Carson is next door to Compton! My first thought was “dog on it” …why is Sarah Palin in my back yard?
That folksie double talk and side stepping questions, is unacceptable in these parts. (wink)
The hardworking middle class majority Democrat folks around here, see straight through the McCain (McSame) Palin (Palies) campaign.
I cannot imagine Sarah Palin being welcomed here under any set of circumstances.
Why would they even come into known Obama/Biden territory?
Were they hoping to make a statement?
Well, Barack Obama & Joe Biden supporters like me, took this as an opportunity to send the McCain campaign a clear message:
We choose Change that We Can Believe In!
Did I go to the Home Depot Center? “You Betcha!” I headed to Carson with my mom, grandmother, and Malinda. We followed a caravan of fellow supporters from Compton and surrounding cities as far as Brentwood.
Upon arriving at the Home Depot Center in Carson, we were greeted by happy enthusiastic Obama/Biden ’08 supporters peacefully marching, chanting, and waving signs. We joined the crowd.
As McCain/Palin supporters arrived many shouted obscenities, others waved their middle fingers, some just gave us dirty glaring looks, while others were just visibly angry that we were exercising our constitutional right to protest. Many seemed shocked that we were even there.
I don’t know how they thought they were going to come in an extremely strong Democratic community and expect anything other than what they got! Sarah Palin is not wanted or welcome here so much so that they had to give away tickets because they couldn’t move them. A man with tickets told me they were initially going for $100+. Yes, I’m the bold chick in an Obama shirt approaching McCain supporters asking questions. I figure since we can’t get any straight answers out of McCain or Palin maybe their supporters would be willing to answer a few questions….
I was elated to run into some Iraq Veterans Against the War supporting the Obama/Biden ticket. McCain/Supporters were not as happy or amused. I was surprised to see and hear some of McSame’s people screaming at these young men (vets) that served our country in Iraq.
Apparently, these McCain supporting civilians knew more about the war then these guys that actually served in the war.
This guy actually told them to stop listening to mainstream media and do some research….I couldn’t believe it.
These guys were there on the front lines, they lived it, how much more research did they need to do?
This was my first time being in the midst of McCain/Palin supporters and it answered so many questions for me.
I had been wondering if McCain/Palin supporters actually believe the nonsense that comes out of their candidates mouths. The answer is yes, many of them do, even when presented with actual facts. I know, SCARY isn’t it.
After hearing racially charged statements from some of the McCain/Palin supporters, it confirmed what I already knew…for some people the issues don’t matter in this election because the real issue for more than most will admit is RACE!
The same people that were wearing shirts and carrying signs with the slogan “Country First” were the same people that were visibly seething with anger that we had the audacity and right to be at the Home Depot Center.
There was a report that an elderly black woman was knocked down, her Obama/Biden sign was taken from her and ripped to shreds earlier… I guess the “Country First” slogan didn’t apply to her. That didn’t even make the evening news.
I am thankful that I am able to participate in and experience these historic times firsthand. I don’t have to rely on history books or the news, as those accounts often leave out important details….
The news claims the stadium was full! I have seen that entire area more packed for sporting events. That stadium was not full of McCain/Palin supporters.
The news also showed a clip of like 10 Obama/Biden supporters on the corner of Avalon in front of the Home Depot Center but neglected to show or mention the hundreds of Obama/Biden supporters that were there at and around the metal detector entrances of the stadium.
I noticed that the news also failed to mention that there was an airplane circling above the stadium with a “Thanks but No Thanks Sarah Palin” sign. Thank God for blogs lol. I bring you the truth and my eyewitness account, check out these pictures.
*Note the first 27 pics are from today, the rest are from a rally on 9/20/08. My friend Malinda took videos today with her phone, when I get those I’ll post them too.
Sorry, I was there INSIDE THE STADIUM and it was absolutely full to the point that people who did not have seats were crowding the railings at the top. As for there being “hundreds” of protesters there, I only saw at most 20 or 30. I guess the other 200 must have disappeared while I was inside? Seems unlikely. As for your lame charges of “racism,” you obviously ignored the black Palin supporters in their McCain/Palin shirts as well as all the Latinos and Asians there supporting her. The crowd was not all white believe it or not and half the people I sat with were women of color.
I hope you all liked it when I waved my PUMA sign at you.
I was there and I saw the leftist kooks. Pretty angry for so called tolerant people. Amazing that even the NOW Chief supports McCain Palin. Hmm.She called Sarah a REAL feminist! The people here in La La land that run businesses are tired of the tripe of the Left and we met a real feminist today. And no this isn’t Obama land. This is the State Reagan built.Far from it. Time to decide do you want a Socialist country or Democratic country.
Just 4 S&G’s please do tell one single accomplishment that Obama has ever carried out other than read a teleprompter.
This web site is a joke. The Sarah Palin event was a success. The people on this web site are LYING there were only about 30 people that showed up to potest. All loosers. There was a gradma with a BUSH sign that I yelled at for being an idiot. My 8 year old little girl and HUNDREDS of kids got to see her ugglie face and stupid signs.
Go Sarah Palin!
You can tell the difference between Democrats and Republicans at the Sarah Palin event. The educated smart people were the republicans 20,000 of them! and the loosers and uneducated were the 30 Democrats that showed up..
About proposition 4 if the Democrat/Liberal women were not such tramps they will not have to worry about aborting babies. Keep your legs close and you will not have to worry abou parental permission to abort your babies or women rights to abort.
Don’t count Sarah out Califonria yet!
Oh my God you people must have very ignorant people following your lead with a bunch of lies.
What are you trying to do with lies like this one….
“After hearing racially charged statements from some of the McCain/Palin supporters, it confirmed what I already knew…for some people the issues don’t matter in this election because the real issue for more than most will admit is RACE!”
Are you kidding! The Sara Palin People all they said “NO BAMA! over and over again. Who are you? how do you sleep at night? Republicans and smart educated people do not care about Obama being half black and HALf WHITE (yes, lady he also happens to be HALF WHITE or did you forget about that…?). He is a SOCILIAST with BAD JUDGMENTS with the company that he keeps. Can you spell SOCIALIST!
Who are you really? What is your purpose with all those lies. There were ONLY 2 SO CALL MIILITARY VETS. They were not military VETS they were poeple like you dress with fake cloths. Those teenageers look as much as military vets as you probably look like Paris Hilton!.
“I was elated to run into some Iraq Veterans Against the War supporting the Obama/Biden ticket. McCain/Supporters were not as happy or amused. I was surprised to see and hear some of McSame’s people screaming at these young men (vets) that served our country in Iraq”
I feel sorry for you who ever you are. Life must be a waste for you living in the greatest country in the planet the great USA. The same great country that allows idiots like you in….
I see your post drew the conservative base to your blog. Isn’t that interesting! I read their remarks and I want to say this.
Palin is far from being a feminist. And she is even less prepared to be the POTUS in the event that something happens to McCain.
Speaking of teleprompters: When Sarah spoke about the responsibilities of the VP, her lack of basic knowledge about the Constitutional description of the VP duties was obvious. That was obvious by her answer to the question during the debate.
If Palin was as tough as her followers believe that she is~why doesn’t she come on out into the full public arena and try to have a discussion that isn’t full of talking points? The GOP has kept her underwraps because it is obvious that her base of knowledge is limited.
But of course it is easy to blame the “liberals” for her poor performance before the nation. She is a great reader and she is a fast study. I will give her credit for that. But she isn’t honest. Nor is she overly impressive as a candidate to those of us who realize that the GOP had a base of women who are better qualified to run the country.
But in reality, the conservatives are scrambling to hold on and to try and win. I am learning to appreciate Palin’s efforts to help them win because it only adds numbers to our camp.
Hillary or Bust,
I welcome open honest discussion and thank you for your comments. However, I can’t help but wonder if time was taken to actually read the post before commenting…
Which rally did you attend? The one in Costa Mesa perhaps? Because if you were at the Home Depot Center in Carson California…(unless you entered through an underground secret entrance) you did see more than 20 Obama supporters. I’m familiar with selective hearing and memory, perhaps this is a case of those plus selective vision.
This picture was taken at the front entrance. McCain/Palin supporters are in line on the left going inside the venue. Obama supporters are on the right with signs.
As for racism… since you only saw at most 20 supporters than its not surprising that you didn’t hear any racist comments made by your fellow McCain/Palin supporters.
There was no mention of the array of colors entering the stadium or standing outside of the stadium. The bottom line is that for some of the folks in your grand ole party, race is an issue. That may not be the case for you personally….but the fact remains…Like it, lump it, take it, shake it.
Your comments here seem as ridiculous as Palin’s answers at the debate and in her interviews with Katie Couric…
I’m glad you enjoyed waving your PUMA sign as much as I enjoyed waving my Obama sign. One of my favorite signs of the day though would probably be this one:
May the best man win!
Regards
Thanks for your post and pictures! We’re with you 100%! We attended the Anti-Palin rally today in Costa Mesa and there were HUNDREDS of people supporting Obama there! We have tons of pictures we would like to share. We will post them on a website so we can post and URL to them. We also had alot of nasty negative comments since we are a bi-racial family. Race is definitely an issue in this campaign and it was MORE than evident to us today. We brought our 4 yr old and 1 yr old to the rally and were happy to see so many families and kids come out to support Obama. On a side note: we had never seen so many mercedes and bmws in our lives. There were long lines of bentleys and limos too…but then again, this was a fundraiser with a minimum of $1000 per head. People in suits flipping my kids off…real classy. We sat there for 3 hours and NEVER saw one person of color go inside Segerstorm Hall for the fundraiser. Photos coming soon…I’ll post the URL here to link to our pics.
HERE IS THE URL for the Obama support rally at the Palin Fundraiser in Costa Mesa, CA. We were out in NUMBERS:
http://ocforobama.blogspot.com/
Only 20 or 30 protesters? I guess republicans can’t count…… Of course, the Veterans weren’t real Vets, right? Of course, all verterans support this war that were were LIED to about getting into the 1st place.
If anything runs contrary to their ignorant views they declare it bogus.
Repubs are robots who can’t think for themselves.
I linked to your page on my blog too. Let me know if you’d prefer I not. Thanks.
Marenda, as always, I applaud your commitment to remaining involved in the political process. Regardless of one’s beliefs, I think that more people need to care about what is taking place in our country.
I was there … there were maybe 100 protesters …. I did not pay much attention to them because some of them spit when they scream at you, and others were throwing stuff into windows driving by.
Since when does holding different beliefs mean you have to hate me? Or treat me as if I’m an idiot because I do not support who you do?
I’m a small business owner and drove to the rally to show support to a working mom who out of the 4 candidates is the only one who has any experience running a company – being CEO of her state. There are 28+ million small businesses in this nation employing 2 to 20 employees. We are the source of 70% of the new job creation in the US … and most of us are so busy working our butts off to keep operations running (especially in this very biz-unfriendly state) that we don’t have much time for anything else.
I took my time to show support with my best friend (she was an Edwards campaigner) for a woman who we both view as a role model. We may not agree with all of her positions – but she has an impressive resume, and a work ethic that many of us female entrepreneurs can respect and admire.
My mother raised 4 of us on her own, and worked full time in her own business because she did not want to collect welfare. And never once did she complain about it … it just needed to get done. And when you meet other small business owners, that is what you will find – people who get it done because no one else is going to.
It’s easy to say “tax businesses more” and single out Exxon. There are about 1,000 companies that size. But most businesses are small – 28 million of them – and perhaps your support of taxing businesses would change if you knew it would be Sally’s Cafe, or Tim’s Cleaning, or Tommy’s Landscaping. Maybe it would change if you knew that when California’s workers comp increase 400% across the board, that companies like mine had to fire employees to keep in business (that is the one good move Arnold made … brought those rates down again).
Small business isn’t like the government. We can’t print more money. We get no bailouts. We are forced to increasingly pay more to fund other people’s social programs … and support many non-citizens expenses. And because we are small we know that when taxes increase, we are going to have to either cut payroll, or cut jobs if we are to survive.
It’s easy as an employee looking at a big corp like Exxon to say they are evil. When you do, also look at all the businesses in your neighborhood and ask yourself if they deserve that same treatment. Does your employer too?
I am happy to see a woman running for this office … she is the only real friend of small business on the ticket, and since the government left and right has created this economic mess, it’s going to be up to us small biz owners to create prosperity in these new challenges … like we always do.
My employees will likely vote democratic … but for their sakes and mine, I will be voting republican so they can have their jobs stay secure. And I don’t hate them for voting that way … I know that the left speaks more to those who think “entitlement” and the right more to those who think “personal responsibility.” That’s why I’m a business owner creating my own future and many others never have the courage to take that risk.
I appreciate your post, I understand where you are coming from, but all on the right are not evil … just as all on the left are not. We care about the same things, but we just see different paths to getting there. And I would never scream and spit in anyone’s face because they did not agree with their choice … but I’m sure you were not one of those angry protesters.
Small Biz 4 Sarah!
Lisa
Maritza,
The joke on this website is your asinine comment!
The only people lying are those that claim only 30 Democrats showed up. (If the shoe fits, wear it). The point of this blog post was not to question or diminish the success of the event. I don't really care how many McCain/Palin supporters attended the event. My main issue was the event took place in an overwhelmingly Democratic district!
As far as distinguishing Republicans from Democrats at the event… You said:
"The educated smart people were the republicans…the loosers and uneducated were the 30 Democrats…"
Which were you?
Looser? Are you serious?
That entire statement reeks of ignorance.
Your pride in disrespecting a grandmother in front of hundreds of children is utterly despicable. There were lots of grandmas out there including mine. Yes, Obama supporters did have Bush signs, the signs read:
1. John McCain=Bush III
2. Like Bush's economy? Hire McCain
<img src="http://marenda.biz/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/likebushseconomy.jpg"width="320">
Considering how you spelled grandma, ugly, and loser, I'm willing to bet dollars to donuts that you didn't read the sign. Idiot is a pretty harsh word, but Maritza really… who was/is the idiot?
Your remarks regarding Prop 4 are way over the top. The fact that you would sum up Democrat women supporting Prop 4 as tramps further demonstrates your ignorance.
Thanks for sharing your comments. You successfully proved my point. Nowhere in this post did I make sweeping blanket statements about McCain/Palin supporters nor did I once resort to name calling. I did make note of how some McCain/Palin supporters made obscene gestures and comments… You've managed to share some of that mean spirited ugliness that gives Republicans a bad name.
Thank God that not all Republicans behave or think like you!
Regards
Great blog. Im sorry you have so many ignorant people responding.Some facts: I want to make note that NOW in no way supports Sarah Palin. I encourage you to read CANOW.ORG.
Also the two beautiful vetrans you pictured were constant beraded as never haveing gone to war. I was sickend by the disrespect as was the security who aplogized to them for the shocking Palin supporters vitrol as well as the Palin supported who said to me Come the new Obama world order you’ll be the first one I take out. I assume because I was holding a Pro Choice sign and wearing my no on 4 stickers. I am so saddened by the republican vitrol.
GOOD JOB ON YOUR BLOG AND DONT STOP WRITING
I know this blogger is credible; one of the most sincere, honest people I know. This dialogue shows how deeply broken this country is. One or two people (a pres & a vice-pres) will not solve all of our issues in 4 years. How can one resolve such deep rooted issues in such a short amount of time?? Wake up America!!! And just hope and pray life for you and I makes a turn in a positive direction. Facts don’t lie. Unless you’re living under a rock, the America I know has taken a great fall and we need a leader who is willing to challenge the status quo! It’s time for change people. We are so divided! Reading these comments sicken me! Where are your hearts and souls? We’re just humans trying to live the lives America encouraged us to dream. I’m out… but in the meantime, be kind to fellow humankind and support change… this country needs it!
well said, especially the price of gas pics
palin , bet she dont know if Iranians are persians or arabs – lol she scares and Sleep if you want to but just recant, Silk Worms’s aint only in China
The One,
Wow “leftist kooks” you say? The anger seemed to come from the other side of the fence in the form of obscene gestures and absurd comments. Not much different from the attacks/comments on this very blog post.
I was not in the company of any angry or vulgar Obama/Biden supporters.
That’s an inaccurate and sweeping generalization you’re making about business owners. I happen to know numerous business owners that are tired and drained from the last 8 years. They are ready for change and gladly support Barack Obama & Joe Biden.
You say you met a real feminist… So did I, in fact I met more than one, all of which were holding Obama signs. I didn’t meet any feminist in support of or running with the candidate that:
1. Supports overturning or amending Roe v. Wade.
2. Opposes sex education and is undecided on contraception.
3. Opposes requiring health insurance to cover birth control.
4. Opposes the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act
5. Opposes Title X family Planning Program
6. Opposes repealing the Global Gag Rule
7. Opposes expanding access to preventive healthcare services
Be clear, I did not declare the state of California as Obama land. The point was hosting a republican campaign event in the heart of California’s 37th congressional district (a strong democratic community) was an interesting choice.
Barack Obama was president of the Harvard Law Review and he also taught constitutional law. I am confident that he understands and will uphold the law and US Constitution better than McCain or Palin! I don’t need to cite 1 of his many accomplishments for S&G’s…but I will watch some SNL Tina Fey!
Regards
Sara Palin and the McCain GOP machine are trying to attack the character and judgment of Barak Obama. In speeches given by Palin in Colorado and California Palin seeks to tie Bill Ayers to the Obama campaign. Mr. Ayers was a member of the Weather Underground Organization as well as Students for a Democratic Society (SDS). Mr. Ayers was never convicted of any crime. The argument has been did he carry out or assist in acts of disobedience or terrorism during the Vietnam era. He may have, but the case was dismissed because of misconduct by the FBI. Fast forward forty years. Mr. Ayers and his wife also a member of WUO are now well known and respected members of the academia and law-abiding citizens. The McCain claim is that Obama has had contacts with Mr. Ayers. Oops, I forgot for a moment that this is the United States of America with a Constitution and Bill of Rights. Citizens of our great nation sometimes perform illegal acts. They are innocent until proven guilty; and if found guilty, once they pay their debt to society (jail, fine or both) they may resume there life, hopefully without prejudice or intolerance. As a nation we must be tolerant and not assign guilt by association. Sarah Palin said during the Vice-Presidential debate she is a tolerant person. Tolerance is one of the principles in a Jeffersonian Democracy. Her recent speeches leave me confused. If guilt by association leads to intolerant attacks on character or judgment, then we must consider John McCain’s relationship with Charles H Keating Jr. (Google the Keating Five) In 1993 Keating was convicted by a federal jury of 73 counts of wire and bankruptcy fraud in the collapse of American Continental and Lincoln Savings. Keating a financial terrorist was sentenced to twelve years in part for bilking scores of seniors out of their life savings. In addition, Palin’s close association to Senator Ted Stevens. Senator Stevens praised Palin and endorsed her for Governor of Alaska. Senator Stevens, if you have not been keeping up to date, is on trial for corruption. Senator Stevens did not report personal gifts according to a Federal Grand Jury. Sarah Palin is hangin’ ‘round someone who violated the public’s trust. The question is can we TRUST McCain/Palin on character and judgment.
I really enjoyed to have the privilege to attend this hot debate. Well personally I don’t like Sarah , she aint a feminist for sure. I hate her for her rape policies and that really so awful.
I respect everyone’s opinion and everyone’s difference of opinion as well
Stay Calm.
Hi Marenda, I appreciate your honesty and courage along with the photos to back you up.
Your article is helpful especially to those who are undecided like me. I’m leaning towards Obama, however, I need to do a little me research.
Keep up the good articles!
I was a “white” protester at the rally. There were hundreds of protestors, and I did hear racial comments from the Palin/McCain people, along with getting the middle finger and hearing foul language.
How terrific that I never once witnessed any of that behavior form the Obama supporters. With all due respect to the Palin/McCain people, as a good Christian I would call that behavior quite ungodly.
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the pure of heart, for they will see God.” Matthew 5:8
I was there on Saturday protesting Palin with you. Thanks for writing this blog and showing more that the news media did not that day. Overall I think it was a success on our end–it helps to remind me to keep up the fight!
Go Obama/Biden!
I’ve got some additional photos of the event here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/zanyj/sets/72157607764409870/
Feel free to use them if you like.
Thanks for the great post. Apparently, you can go to war for your country, and be told how much the country values you, and supports you….that is, until you decide to have an opinion. Then you get insulted and berated.
I support our troops, both now, and when they’ll need it most – which is after they return. Anything less would be sheer hypocrisy.
The pictures don’t lie!
Mike and Delia I thank you for the report on the Costa Mesa rally, those are great pictures. I’m excited to see OC 4 Obama I added you to my Blogroll.
Awesome Jan!!!! Thanks for sharing these, you even got the airplane circling with the Thanks but No Thanks Sarah Palin:
You Grow Girl! LOL. I knew you were doing your thang but anytime you can stir up this type of controversy…. then you know you are on the right path. Keep It Up. Jaye
Great post Marenda, its good seeing folks exercise their constitutional rights abd openly opposing the empty pant-suited moose hunter who doesn’t know the Bush Doctrine from a hole in the wall. Awesome pictures. Oh, don’t let the right-wingers polluting your site get you down – they are just mad that the ticket they support is a fundamentally lame one.
Humanity F Critic
Wow, what a dichotomy of conversation this started. I know the anti-rally was real because I saw it on the news, and saw how many people were outside. It certainly was more than 30, that’s for sure. And based on the Republican convention, I doubt there were any significant number of minorities inside the rally, though I don’t doubt that there was probably a goodly amount of women in there.
Beyond that, I’m not sure of exactly what might have occurred between both sides. I’m sure there was some bad behavior on both sides, and I’m sure each position here, other than the count, saw things from their own perspective. What’s going wrong with this entire election at this point is that it’s just not good enough for anyone to stand on their record, or lack thereof. It’s gotten personal, and it’s gotten ugly. This means it’s going to get sexist and racial before it’s all said and done. I mean, has everyone seen the story about the teacher who’s been suspended in Florida (of course) for trying to be funny in teaching his class what C.H.A.N.G.E. stood for (you can guess what the “N” meant)?
I believe you did a nice job of giving your position and telling your story. However, one does have to recognize that, obviously, when you take a position, it means someone else is going to take an opposite point of view. Just seeing how many people are against your position shows how well read your blog is by all sides. That means you’re doing well with it; good job.
Hi there, I love politics and actually attended the rally on Sat too. Unlike some people, my son is half black and I understand the racism that is rampant in today’s society despite being white myself.
That said, I’m not voting for Obama even though he is the better looking candidate. LOL
I posted some of my experiences at the rally and pictures too. As a journalist, I try to present both sides of this issue and took pix of both the protesters and the attendees.
Granted my pix lean more to the right because I’m writing for myself, but I thought you all might enjoy seeing pix of someone who appreciates the Freedom of Speech we are allowed in America and values opposing viewpoints.
If anyone is interested, The Shore Restaurant and Lounge in Hermosa Beach located at 1320 Hermosa Ave will be hosting a non-partisan Wine & Cheese tasting during the debates tomorrow night and all are welcome.
Let’s get back to the old-fashioned town hall meetings where all opinions are respected and discussed! Love to have you join us! $10 for wine & cheese and happy hour till 7:30pm. 1/2 price bottles of wine too all night. 6pm – 9pm.
My pix can be found at http://www.thejoywriter.typepad.com. Thanks! Leave a comment. Loving the dialog. God bless America and our right to freedom of speech!
JOY
Mendez,
You pose some good questions which I’ll gladly answer…
You said: “Who are you really? What is your purpose with all those lies.”
Who am I? I am my brother’s (and my sister’s) keeper. Had you done your due diligence, you wouldn’t have to ask who I am, and I’m certain you would have approached this discussion differently.
I am a friend.
I am a niece.
I am a cousin.
I am an aunt.
I am a sister.
I am a daughter.
I am a grand daughter.
I am a wife.
I am a woman.
I am a blogger.
I am an activist.
I am a community organizer.
I am a small business owner.
I am a Californian.
I am an American citizen.
I am a citizen of planet Earth.
I am a human being.
I am a humanitarian.
I am a believer in God.
I AM YOUR NEIGHBOR!
Of the many things that I am, a liar I am not! I do not take kindly to the suggestion. I can agree to disagree on political issues. I cannot agree to disagree on facts.
Fact #1 Some McCain/Palin supporters indeed made racial comments.
Just because you didn’t hear them does not mean it didn’t occur. If a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound?
Fact #2 You cannot and do not speak for all Republicans or “smart educated people.” Race is a factor for some voters as indicated by several exit polls during the primaries. Just because you deny that a problem exists doesn’t make the problem go away!
Fact #3 Barack Obama neither supports nor advocates Socialism. He is not nor has he ever been a Socialist. Barack Obama upholds and stands for the American dream for all Americans as outlined in the United States Constitution:
“We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity…” — Preamble, The Constitution of the United States of America
Fact #4 While you may not like the company that Barack Obama keeps, his judgment as to what is best for this country (including opposing the war from the beginning) has been right!
Fact #5 Our military recruits teenagers aggressively! Teenage soldiers not even old enough to buy a beer to drink with Joe Six pack are in Iraq right now! Teenagers are in boot camp right now. A teenager some where is enlisting or contemplating enlisting right now. The title veteran is applicable to those that have honorably served in the military for one tour, an entire career, in combat, or not. Age does note determine if someone is a veteran.
You said: “They were not military VETS they were poeple like you dress with fake cloths”
Mendez, people like me don’t have the time or the inclination to dress up in fake clothes to impersonate veterans! Think about how ridiculous that sounds!
You said: “I feel sorry for you who ever you are. Life must be a waste for you living in the greatest country in the planet the great USA. The same great country that allows idiots like you in….”
You needn’t feel sorry for me. Use that energy to constructively deal with your own issues. I live life abundantly and love it. I was born and raised in the United States of America, they didn’t have to let me in. I’m home grown and far from an idiot.
The next time you attack someone’s character and intelligence get the facts.
Starrzy was at the rally too and posted these awesome pics/videos:
Starrzy also goes into details about the “fullness” of the stadium. Turns out they ended up using the smaller stadium which explains the spilling over and the HillaryorBust PUMA account. See: starrzy.dailykos.com»
Thanks for sharing this wonderful post. The information you have got here is so insightful and informative. I am sure more people would love to read this.
I’m glad you got the chance to go!
Nice sign
Palin is an embarrassment and her selection as Mccain’s running mate only shows bad judgement. It’s shocking that they’d select somebody who is charming and pretty, but knows nothing about the law or global issues.
And Obama isn’t handsome and clueless too?
Voting present and not knowing foreign relations does not a PRESIDENTIAL candidate make.
Thank heaven he has Biden. That’s the only way I can sleep at night knowing he might get into office. OY!
Well said! The thing that disappoints me is not that folks have a differing view, but that they choose not to accept that there are other views. This country was built on the open sharing ideas and the freedom of expression – we should cherish that.
In the coverage I’ve watched I’ve seen it more often in religion. For some reason many churches have linked up that Republican=Christian. What makes me furious is that Obama’s well expressed and deeply held faith doesn’t seem to make a difference to the religious right.
Look, noone is perfect and all politicians promise things they won’t deliver, and say things that are not completely true. I’m deeply disappointed that McCain and Palin have taken this to a whole new level in this campaign. It’s not just lies and deceit, but inciting hate. Wasn’t it Jesus who said “Love thy neighbor” and “Love thy enemy”?
I agree that Sarah Palin would not be a good choice. I hope Obama and Biden win. Palin is not ready to lead.
Coments from my blog:
Friday, October 10, 2008
My story of the Palin So. Cal protests
Current mood: betrayed
Category: News and Politics
While many of you asked me about the Palin protest earlier it’s taken a bit to process and put pen to paper. So here I am finally, forgive me.
The morning of the protest started off excitedly as I woke up early to drink some tea and read the paper and to my dismay read that Sarah Palin had sold out the Home Depot Center with in hours. I woke Lisa up to tell her it was going to be a big day. I got ready to get to class, pack up the wonderful signs Lisa and I had made the night before at our Democratic headquarters here in down town Torrance with many other activists who were going to the protest. I made it into class after surveying the streets and parking lots early while on the phone with Lisa, Darcelle and Phish to let them know about activity going on in the streets early morning before the protest. Cones were bieng set up, the democrats had set up a giant jumbo tron bill board that was to broad cast questions i.m.’d and called in from the public to Sarah Palin and lots of police presence. Which was a good thing in our opinion as Phish and I had been contacted about our involvement with the protest as they had seen a flyer I had posted on the South Bay Feminist meet up group I moderate.
I got to class albeit late which I never do, somehow I had lost an hour……….
I left class at 11:30am and walked straight to the parking lot and decided to move my truck closer to the Home Depot center which parking lot adjoins with CSUDH parking lot and saw a group of girls who I thought might be CSUDH students going to protest but I didn’t know which side of the street they’d be protesting. So I lagged in lowering my trucks back window as to see how they would react to my peace sign and the last time we mixed religion with politics people got burned at the stake stickers. That’s usually a good indicactor. They walked by with their rolled up signs, read my stickers, smiled and were friendly and asked me if I was going to the protest. Absolutely! They’ ere Obama girls and here’s a great link to a them on youtube. You can see of Lisa and I in the background. They rocked!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84X_ebfDZuc
The Carson protest was very well set up and well organized. I walked from the CSUDH parking lot through the middle of the Home Depot Center which took some overaries to catch the vibe of Carson. I was wearing my this is what a feminist looks like tee shirt and my peace sign necklace. The comments as I walked through the lot were from a car load of women “oh feminist? must be a dyke lesbian” I though to myself really??? come on, oh the ignorance! Then on to “your no feminist!”,” I held up in the middle of that stadium my feminist for choice sign. More comments.” how much money did you get paid to protest from Hollywood” , “Get a job!” At those moments I knew it was going to be a rough protest. As I entered out of the Home Depot lot with the group of girls I was in the CSUDH parking lot with I heard “get a job n*%ger” I was shocked that people for Palin could sink so low.
On Avalon the traffic was starting to back up over a mile or so and many people while waiting to get in would open their windows and I would try to engage them about choice, how their SUVS were bieng filled with blood money and so on. Some engaged and I was as compassionate as I could be while holding firm in my stance to try and compassionately educate. The majority of cars flipped us off to which I would yell back to their rolled up windows, which I knew that they could hear because I could see their reactions change “mighty Christian of you! Is that old testament?”
I think one of the hardest things to see were all the young children going in the gates and their confused little faces. I felt sad that their parents were voting to send them as token offerings into a war or to use their daughters as sacrificial lambs for their religion bleeding into politics in not bieng able to control their own bodies.
One woman I was standing next to who’s sign said we vote with our brains not our gender was hit by a car who swerved into us on the curb and hit her arm with their side view mirror. One of the guys she was with ran after the car to got a picture of the license plate if she wanted to file a hit and run report which Lisa assured her she certainly could. She was ok however she had a pretty big black and blue knot on her forearm. It was not the first nor the last time the Palin supporters rammed their cars close to the curb to try and scare us and hit us with their cars. The democrats jumotron sign held some great questions for Palin. One of my favorite being; What religion are you Sarah and do you speak in tongues?
As most of the Avalon traffic died down and most Palin supporters were now inside we decided to get off the street and go directly inside the center and protest where the lines of Palin supporters was wrapped around the building which had people standing on both sides and was extremely contentious. Lisa was only able to stay for a little bit before she had to go to work. I kissed her goodbye and made friends with 2 guys who were in their mid 20′s and were Afghanistan vets protesting the war and Palin. They were beautiful and strong and I stood in between the two of them and together the 3 of us were a good team. There was a void in one of the men in particulars eyes and his sadness was palatable. I knew he had seen things I could never imagine and I was thankful for his protection in so many ways. One man walked up to the vets and said “you were never in a war your just playing dress up!” and his friend came up beside him inches away from our faces and pointed at me and said “come the new Obama world order you’ll be the first one I’ll take out” I was hocked at his hatred.Vets against the war lunged forward at him to back off and security came in to pull the Palin guys back and apologized to all of us especially the Vets. It was shocking. A death threat from a Republican quite possibly Christian Palin supporter. Here are some pictures of the vets I was standing with. We exchanged hugs and they told me they would be a anti war demonstration in Santa Monica tomorrow, I’m going to try and go and support them. They were and are beautiful.
http://www.Marenda.Biz Friday, October 10, 2008
http://ivaw.org/faq
As I stood with them a little while longer a woman came up to me and whispered in my ear don’t worry sister Code Pink Women are in the house which made me smile. This amazing woman of courage I sure was
http://www.mfsooc.org
As most of the Palin supporters had finally entered the Home Depot center it was around 2:45 PM and I was going to make my way to OC and join Phish and Darcelle for the Segerstrom Hall protest to kick off at 3:30. I made it there in no time and found my way into the protest. I saw no protestors on Bristol and they seemed to be all confined to a small area by the Hall. I parked in the parking lot which they assured me would not be $20 but free and Darcelle met me at the exit of the parking structure with her sign. Anti war, Pro Choice, Tree Hugging, Lesbian against Palin. So cool! Indeed a true soul sister.
We walked up to all the protesters in the small circle across from Segerstrom Hall and greeted OC Code Pink, Pacific Shore NOW,OC NOW, WSSA from CSULB and so many more wonderful activists. Darcell , Phish and I decided to go onto the main blvd Bristol to really be in the mix of the Palin supporters going to Palins fundraiser. We were joined by a small hand full of anarchists, 911 was an inside job and other individuals. I was blown away at the dripping in wealth like I had never seen before. I really don’t consider myself a sheltered girl from the nicer things in life. Lisa treats me very well thank you. But I had never seen models of Mercedes and BMW’s dripping in black waxy paint like this before. I had never seen more beautiful, wrinkless, pearly white, prada wearing people in one place before. Of course there were car after car after car of the middle finger being given. These Palin supporters were completely different than the Carson supporters. I did not see one person of color pass us on Bristol, now don’t get me wrong Carson was also primarily white but this was not only white but white, 50 and over in my estimate and obviously dripping in money. A young 20 something blond guy came over to our group and started bouncing around in the middle of our few and was holding up his MCcain Palin sticker. He was acting like he was on an amphetamine or something then ripped my pro choice sign out of my hands and tried to rip it up over the head of an anarchist girl who pushed him off her and chased him down the street. Gotta love those anarchist girls! My sign was not damaged beyond repair and we continued to hold our signs up and protest. I tried to engage as many cars as I could to no avail. We decided to wrap it up around 7:30pm and go get some dinner and hot tea for me and a drink for Darcelle and Phish. We discussed the days events and wrapped it up and I headed back to the South Bay. I got home in time for the ten pm news and of course there was coverage of Sarah Palin being in Carson and OC and just a small blurb of the protestors against’s Palin and her pro war, anti feminist, inhumane treatment for animal ways.
I woke up the morning of the 5th and sat with my tea and began to open my email to one of the ultimate Pontus Pilot moments I have ever encountered.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJxIYQKmM0M
NOW feminists were stabbed in the back by our own LA NOW president Shelly Mandell who introduced Sara Palin inside the Carson Home Depot Center. Shelly had the audacity to call Sara Palin a sister. Shelly said she was not representing the views of NOW but her own. I was astounded and so angry. Shelly Mandell was and is the ultimate Judas. Shelly Mandell had no idea or did not care how many NOW women were just on the other side of the gate protesting Palin and her own anti feminist ways but Shelly went on to serve herself and stab every woman who has fought for equality in the heart. Shelly Mandell is the ultimate Judas and we are NOW demanding her immediate removal not only as LA NOW president but stripped of her NOW membership as well. Patty Belassama who is unfortunately the CA NOW president wrote a disclaimer blaming the media for Shelly Mandells statements at the Palin rally. I encourage you all who support women’s rights to write a letter or email CA NOW or National NOW letting them know how you feel about Shelly Mandell and CA NOW’s lack of responsibility and complete betrayal of feminists everywhere.
This is the phone number and email address for CA NOW.
[email protected]
916/442-3414
Patty Bellassama who before she took over CA NOW was hand in hand with Shelly Mandell. Let her know how you feel!
Patty Bellassama directly
[email protected]
This BTW is the LA NOW chapter info and addy which also doubles as Shelly Mandells law office!
Los Angeles
c/o Shelly Mandell / 3415 South Sepulveda Blvd. Suite 320
Los Angeles , CA 90034
310-398-5805
[email protected]
Here are email addy’s for National NOW.
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
This is my story of a wonderful, at times difficult and betraying day. But overall it has brought me a renewed sense of advocacy for women and children and I will not stop making my signs, writing my letters, phone banking, explaining stickers on my car, or talking to people in the grocery store and school about why it is integral to continue to work for a better place to live in equality, peace and justice just not only for ourselves but our children’s as well.
All my love, peace and sisterhood,
Yvonne
Here are some pictures of the protest from my flicker site.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/28625365@N07
Currently listening :
How Sweet It Is
By Joan Osborne
Two Comments:
Having served twenty years in the military – the two people you highlight are not representative of the mainstream view that most military personnel feel. Soldiers are tired of long and repeated deployments, but they do believe in what we’re doing over there.
Now for Sarah Palin. I was shocked this was McCain choice. Thrilled is an understatement. I guess I have as much enthusiasm of her as you do with Obama.
My prediction is that you will get your wish. I believe Obama will win. But CHANGE does not equal PROGRESS. Democrats will no longer have anybody to blame (at least effectively). Get ready for a very bad four years – the worst we have seen in our lifetimes (History will be kind to Bush compared to what we are about to go thorough)
I don’t really care about personality, speaking ability, credentials, past history, race, etc. I am an ideology voter. What Obama will do will cause many small business to go under. Unemployment will rise. If McCain is Bush – then Obama is Carter. Do you remember him? Those were some really bad bad times.
As a republican – I must acknowledge that it is time for us to reset – regain our bearings and return to our conservative / capitalist roots. We want California back, as well as Pennsylvania, Michigan, and many other states that have stayed blue.
The only way I see that happening is to give the people in those states what they want. And I know it will blow up. I don’t hope it does – I vote on the basis of ideology. Socialism, liberalism, progressiveness, whatever the politically correct title is – just doesn’t work – it does more harm then good.
Most of my fellow republicans are not the protesting type of people. Just average and ordinary Americans more concerned with the local high school football game then spending a Saturday in a shouting match with other people. But they vote religiously – and don’t broadcast their opinions. Most hang up when the pollsters call – they keep to themselves.
This is going to change soon, if not Nov 5, then next president election. Time for us to fight back. They call us racists? No – call them a raciest right back. Stick to your guns and don’t concede an inch.
My prediction is republicans will get the house/senate back in 2010 and Sarah Palin will be our first female president in 2012.
Similar to the massive recall effort in California of Gray Davis….
Don
Great now i am not sure
Palin scares the heck out of me. As someone who is truly an independent, McCain’s selection of Palin removed any doubt from my mind of who I was going to be voting for in this election.
Thanks so much for your report. It’s great to see so many protesters. I was an Obama supporter early on (though I probably would have voted for whoever won the Democrat primary) and I’m so happy with how he’s been doing and the great skill and tact that he’s shown in the three debates. I don’t think I’ve ever been this excited about a candidate.
I moved from a red state to Florida this year, so I’m hoping that my vote will help Obama secure this state.
I am an Obama supporter as well. Personally, I do not think that Palin will do much for the country. Good thing, she did not win. She should be careful where she goes to though. What is she trying to prove anyways? Why does she have to go to Carson? People there know what they want and do not want. They sure made it known to Palin.
Just browsing some of the older entries, reminding myself that the political situation has its roots…it's interesting how the craziness of the rallies has migrated and become the craziness on forums and blogs all over the Internet.