I'm the face of the Democratic Underground

[MrScorpio]

I am Mr Scorpio,

I've served twenty-one years in the military... But I'm not a war-mongering militarist that revels in attacking sovereign nations that never attacked us.

I'm a married, heterosexual male who believes that marriage is an institution that should be preserved... But I believe that the best way to preserve that institution is to allow more people to join. If gays want to join, I say bring 'em on.

I believe in freedom of speech for all, even hate speech... If you're a fucking, racist freeptard, speak up, I want to know. You'll be lucky if you leave the room on both legs.

I believe that abortion is not a good thing.. But I believe that it's a necessary thing in a country that refuses to explore and fund viable alternatives, like the rest of western civilization.

I believe that the media is in some ways too liberal... In the sense that it spreads liberal doses of bullshit to keep the masses locked in a hypnotic trance (That's right, I'm talking to you, Fox).

Those are only some of the things that I believe, what about you?

[LastKnight]

1. I am the face of Democratic Underground.

I am LastKnight,

Im 18 years old, so i havent had much of a chance to do much yet in my limited time on this earth. i am one of many youth that believe our country is headed in the wrong direction. i am a pascifist and would use violent protest only as a last resort or in self defense. like our parents and grandparents did in the 60s, i am willing to take to the streets to speak my mind and make sure people know what i believe in. and resort to bloodshed only if absolutley necessary.

as a straight man looking for somone to have a serious relationship with, i find it hard enough being part of the 'normal' sexual preference if there is such a thing. ok maybe majority preference is probably a better description. but gay, straight, or bi... if 2 people find somone they want to spend the rest of thier lives with, dammit. let em.

i believe in freedom of speech for all as well, im with scorpio on this one. also, throw all the PC crap out the window, say what you feel, nothing more, nothing less.

i believe in thinking for myself, because in this world of punditry and pre-packaged messages. i think im the only one i can really trust.

-LK

[7th_Sephiroth]

42. i am the dark side of democratic underground

i am 7th sephiroth

i am a realist, peacefull protests have been tried, and have failed miserably, so i do not believe in them. i am highly intelliget, and i do not let fear get the best of me.

I am a gun owner and proud of it, if you break into my house, i will not try to resolve it peacefully. I am skilled in mental manipulation, and i use it to stop fundies.

I am for abortion and assisted suicide, but not the death penalty, but i believe in painfull punishment instead of lengthy jail times where criminals can hone thier skills and pick new ones up from cellmates, a $50 dollar whip will do just fine in punishing the guilty for most charges.

[skooooo]

54. I am Mr. Potato Head.

[Bill ClintonII]

114. Death Penalty

I believe the death penalty is more merciful than most other punishments, and therefore should be maintained for murders, rapists, child molesters,etc. I own guns and am proud of it. If anyone breaks into my home, he or she will not live to testify against me in a court of law.

[MrScorpio]

115. You're a rare bird in these parts

Although a lot of believe is some sort of self defense, the death penalty is something that most of us disagree with.

I predict that if you decide to stick around, you'll get into a lot a heavy debates about it.

[Bill ClintonII]

116. MrScorpio, I realize that, but welcome the debate.

I believe that if something ever happened and, God forbid, someone killed a member of my family, the police would most likely not be able to prevent it, even if I called 911. By the time they arrived, it would be too late, and they would only be there to pick up the pieces. That is not acceptable to me. The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that it is not the responsibility of the police to protect individual human life, merely to protect society. So, In my mind, that leaves it up to me to defend myself and my family. Regards, Bill

[VolcanoJen]

117. Here's a thought: Let's not have this debate within this thread.

This thread just isn't intended for debate of any kind.

Bill ClintonII, please feel free to join a discussion within one of our other forums, or begin a new one, about the death penalty. This thread is an inappropriate place to begin this kind of discussion.

A good place to start would be our Justice and Public Safety Forum.

Welcome to DU,

VolcanoJen
DU Moderator

[MockSwede]

132. Mercy

There's nothing wrong with retribution. It's a balm for the most extreme heartfelt hurt.

Justice delayed is justice denied. No question of guilt in a capital crime; death penalty swiftly administered. Any reasonable doubt; life - without any pardon or parole - unless a retrial disproves guilt.

I have no handguns and won't. Be a good neighbor and make sure yours are safely locked up. I wouldn't wish a break in on anyone, whether in front of or behind the handgun.

Welcome to the open minds.

[MissKitty]

107. "I am the face of Democratic Underground."

I grew up the daughter of a Coal Miner, and later became a Coal Miner myself. In those years, I've seen what was a once proud union become a name only, and I fear it's going to get worse.

I've worked hard as a single mother and put two sons through college, thanks to the help of President Clinton and the financial-aid my sons have received.

I fear another 4 years under GWB for many reasons. I fear, for the Unions, I fear for our economic growth, I fear for our education system, I fear for our envornment, and most of all I fear for the lives of our men and women in service.

[VolcanoJen]

108. Welcome to DU, MissKitty!!

:hi:

[MrScorpio]

110. Welcome to DU, MissKitty

From child of a union home to another, you're welcome to stay.

Looking forward to hearing from you in the future

[Proud liberal Kat]

2. other face of the Democratic Underground

I'm KerryKat

I'm a 30 year old Mom of a 22 month old girl who is the light of my life and who I will look squarely in the eye when she is older and tell I did everything in my power to preserve the World for her and her children in the election of 2004.


I'm a happily married heterosexual woman whose marriage doesn't need to be preserved by denying others the right to have the same protections and acknowledgment of their relationships with their soul mates as I do with mine.


I believe that to be a true patriotic American citizen you have to think for yourself and research beyond the sound bytes offered by either side. You need to read and listen to and research information from both sides. To be an American and believe BS like Kerry flip-flopped on the 87 billion or actually voted against all those individual missile systems is something one should be deeply ashamed of.

I also believe that to be a true patriotic American that a person needs to speak the truth as one sees it and be involved. I think questioning the President is not only our right but our duty. I think to sit in silence when there is an unjust War being waged in your name is something to be ashamed of and I am glad to say that I can be proud of John Kerry for both his service in the military and his protest against the War when he found the truth.

I am not a pacifist, I do believe that there are times when violence is called for. I think it is a rather rare occurrence and that most times a change in course before War was the only answer could have prevented the need in the end. However I do not see how any sane and compassionate person could see the war in Iraq as either the last resort or even productive for the aims of the National Security of our country.

I believe that the environment should be one of our biggest concerns, after all we do live here and depend on the air and water for the very basic continuance of our lives. It just absolutely floors me that most people put very little thought or weight to environmental issues in the end.

I believe that it is perfectly sound and practical and yes gasp even fair that the very richest contribute a higher percentage of their income and wealth to the running of the country. I believe that first they have reaped more from the infrastructure and resources and protection of our country and so should put more back. I also believe that by making the country viable and giving all the most basic human rights such as decent education, health care, and security that it will only make the country stronger thus giving them more wealth in the end.

Well I guess I will end my book :)

[Old and In the Way]

3. I 'm the face of the Democratic Underground.

White, hetero male, 52, married, 2 kids in HS, 1 dog, 5 cats, and a hampster.

I'm for social justice and equal protection.
I believe in a women's right to choose.
I'm against immoral wars of aggression, particular ones in which we claim democratic liberation to cover the stealing of someone else's resources.
I'm for making every person's vote count. If we can't trust our vote to count, there is no "democracy".
I'm for alternative and renewable energy policies that will create a new domestic economy and help clean up our polluted environment.
I support the civil rights of gays.
I'm for an independent commission to tell us the truth about 9/11.
I'm for a structural reduction of our Defense budget. $400BB/year to fight non-existant enemies is corporate welfare at it's most obscene .
I am for a government that plays an activist role in regulating business and protects the rights of those that have no representation in our society.
I'm for national health insurance that spreads the financial risk amongst us all and gives everyone access to our healthcare system.

[MichaelHarris]

13. We

have your hampster, he's safe and will be returned when you send 100 votes John Kerrys way.

Kidding :) but we'll resort to anything.

[Old and In the Way]

15. I can deliver 8 votes....feverishly working on the 92.

BTW, his name is Ralph and he has a hankering for cheezits.

:-)

[MichaelHarris]

69. LOL

he told us, we had to go to Safeway and buy all the cheezits. We may have to return him because we can't afford any more cheezits.

[Bertha Venation]

85. Ralph can have all my Cheezit. Too many calories in too small a snack.

Go, Ralph! :bounce:

[NewHampshireDem]

4. I am the Face of Democratic Underground

I am thankful to live in a country where we can choose to serve in the military or not and I am thankful for those who served so I didn't have to. I believe we should keep our promise to all who serve our nation to keep us free.

I believe America should be the greatest nation on the earth, but to be so we must remember and understand both the ideals this country was founded upon and those that our forefathers rebelled against. We should be the "City on the Hill" John Winthrop spoke about, a model for the world to emulate and we bear that responsibility with humility.

I am the son of an immigrant and thankful for the opportunities America has given to me and my family. However, I want to ensure that future generations have the same economic and educational opportunities I have enjoyed.

I believe in public education, that all children can learn, and that excellence and equity are not competing values but complementary values. Once we live up to our obligation to our children, this nation will become strong again.

I am an American, and if you question my patriotism, be prepared to suffer the consequences!

[mitchtv]

5. I am a face of the DU

I am a 59 year old gay male in a union for the last 28 years.
I am a Union member and former Union officer and steward, I have fought and went to jail, in the anti war movement, the gay liberation movement, the enviromental movement. I smoke weed, not for medicine but for fun,I have seen a lot of changes in the last 30 years and am sometimes saddened by the new generation taking things like reproductive choice for granted. I have been mugged for being gay and I have fought back. I will not be a victim, and dread the thought of having to go out on the streets again, but I will.

[UdoKier]

6. I'm the face of DU too.

I'm 35, male, hetero, happily married, 2 kids, NOT a pacifist, but very much against the unnecessary Iraq war.

I'm not in a union, but I believe a strong organized labor movement is the key to better wages and working conditions for all. I place social issues a bit lower on the priority scale, but essentially agree with the party's positions on them.


I have lived in Japan for many years, long enough to see fisthand the benefits of a society with little defense budget, gun control, great mass transit, and full national healthcare.

Living there turned me from a "moderate" to a committed liberal.

[UTUSN]

7. *I* Am MrScorpio! n/t

[MrScorpio]

8. Okay, "MrScorpio", so tell us what "You" believe

I really want to hear this.

[UTUSN]

9. All of the Above Tempered with

a dose of unidealistic, pragmatic, expediency that will ACTUALLY get us into power, which will ACTUALLY get "all of the above" into REALITY.

(MrScorpio-1, you weren't being sarcastic with your best customer, were you?)

[MrScorpio]

11. Of course not. Expect a drink on the house tonite, when I open the bar

From one American fighting man to another

[CanuckAmok]

10. I am, too!

I'm CanuckAmok.

I'm one of America's neighbours.

I'm a ten year veteran of the United Nations Peackeeping Force. I served alongside some of the finest men and women I've come to know; the men and women of the United States Armed Services.

I visit the Unites States often, and love it's citizens. About half my family are Americans. I strongly believe in the foundations America was founded upon, and not the bullshit corporo-fascism of the NeoCons.

I believe in every womans' right to terminate her pregnancy in a safe, legal environment, free from penalty or persecution.

I beleve in any adult's right to have sex for in exchange for any compensation he/she sees appropriate.

I beleve gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and transgendered people deserve every right and freedom aforded to heterosexuals, including the right to love who they want, and to commit to that love in a legally binding, public, and when they want, religious ceremony.

I believe it's more important to fund schools and geriatric care facilities than corporate welfare and the 'defense' industry.

I don't care what guns you own, as long as you don't point them at me.

I believe everyone, rich or poor, deserves a fair trial.

I have two relatives and one friend who work for the NY Port Authority, and who were in the World Trade Centre on September 11th. They Survived. Two are Republicans, and I'm still glad they survived.

I believe everyone has to stand up and speak when they witness injustice.

[Jokinomx]

12. I am the face of the Democratic Underground...

I am a PROUD Liberal...

I am a 47 year old white heterosexual male, married with two AWESOME Daughters in 11th and 12th grade and have two half black lab/half golden retriever dogs.

I am not affiliated with any religious organization nor have my children ever been subjected to that type of indoctrination. They turned out just fine. In fact both are leaders amongst their peers and are not afraid to speak their minds to stand up for the persecuted (bullied).

We all support the right for any two people who love each other to form a union that gives them the same rights given to what we now call a "legal" marriage.

I am for the legalization of marijuana. Not only for medical use, but for recreational as well. Just tax the hell out of it.

I voiced my dismay with the direction of this administration leading up to the invasion of Iraq, to be ridiculed and slandered by others that thought otherwise. It didn't stop me. I am very proud of my stance.. I have not wavered.

I am for strong environmental laws to protect not only our lands but our children's health and well being.

I am a strong union supporter... as my experience has taught me that even if you are sick and close to death... your company can fire you at will and without a union to protect you, there is absolutely nothing you can do about it.

I have never called myself a Democrat until this election. But now I do and I am Proud to say it.

I am as mad as Hell and I am not going to take it anymore!!

and last but not least... I am a PROUD Lion fan...LOL

:kick:

[mark414]

63. i agree with all that you said

except the heavy marijuana tax. though i suppose if it were legal it'd be a hell of a lot cheaper, so maybe the tax wouldn't matter...

[Jokinomx]

71. Thanks for your Comment.... I agree.. ... Cannabis users would gladly

payoff the countries debt...to partake without fear of losing so much for such a minor offense. I had to quit a long time ago because I couldn't take a chance of losing my job. With that... after smoking for several years... I didn't have one craving or NEED to use it...
I just miss the relaxed feeling that I got from it.

:hippie:

[WannaJumpMyScooter]

14. I am the face of DU

I am wannajumpmyscooter.

I served 25 years in the US military. But I am against insane, illegal invasions of courntries just because we have the power.

I love to ride motorcycles, the older the better, I say.

I have a Ph.D. but don't want to teach. However, the funding for research is non-existant under this adminstration, so I continue to be underemployed.

I believe in all our freedoms in the Bill of Rights. None of them is more important than the others.

I believe if Jefferson (et ali) were alive, we would already be plotting to overthrow the government.

I believe the media is for shit. I would not trust the weather from a network source.

Gays are people too, and are covered under the Constitution and deserve every protection, right and responsibility as everyone else.

Well, that's my platform. Mostly, anyway.

[roguevalley]

16. I am the face of DU

I am a 51 year old single female who is now precinct captain of the local dems in Alaska.

I believe in equality for ALL.
I believe in global unity.

I believe in social equity, economic justice and the Constitution.
I miss America.

God bless us all.

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

19. "I am the face of DU"

I am a 33 (soon to be 34 on Thursday) married lady (to my college sweetheart). I'm a life-long Democrat and will be one until the day I die.

I strongly believe in the separation of church and state.

I strongly believe in the importance in a woman's right to choose.

I strongly believe in equality, especially equal pay for equal work.

I believe in the govt. actually funding social programs and caring for its people.

I believe in healthcare for ALL.

I believe John Kerry and John Edwards are the best hope we have for our country!! Kerry-Edwards for a stronger America!

[tamtam]

17. I am a

27 year old black female. I'm currently in school (yes I'm a slow poke) I joined the Air Force after high school. I have two little ones, my husband is in the military. We are currently stationed in San Diego. I have never voted before, I have never followed politics until now. There really isn't much more I can say about myself.

I do want to say this board is a breath of fresh air. I lurk most of the time, sometimes I feel like some folks on this board could utilize a beer and lighten up on newbies. I know you get the occasional freeper ,but not every newbie is a freeper.

I think as the election comes closer you are going to see many people like me coming to this board. When I say people like me I mean those of us that are new to politics, new to voting, and are scared as hell of what may come if GW wins this election.

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

20. Welcome to DU, tamtam!

[MrScorpio]

22. Welcome to DU, tamtam

Good to see another fellow airman on board.

Stick around, you're right at home.

[cheshire]

25. Please chime in we want to hear from you. And you are very observant.

[WannaJumpMyScooter]

52. Welcome TamTam.... 27 is not too old for school

I just finished my PhD this year, and I am 51.

Do your own thing, don't worry about anyone's opinion.

Welcome, Veteran.

[Jokinomx]

64. Welcome to the DU tamtam... Thanks for Sharing your thoughts...:-)

I am so happy that you have taken the intiative to vote. It truly is our only hope for this country. I salute you and your Husband for serving this country.
:kick:

[Mokito]

135. Welcome tamtam!

27 certainly is not to old for school. F.Y.I., I'm 25 and also have only recently decided to begin learning again for a higher degree (partly thanks to DU). I believe that education has no maximum age limit. Rather, government should promote lifelong (possibilities for) education, because most people only start to really appreciate and understand the importance of education when they have already passed the school years.

[wryter2000]

18. I'm the farce of DU

55 year old, female, Caucasian married to a 72 year old Caucasian male. I work as a secretary at a large, non-profit medical center and write romance novels on the side.

Because the company I work for is good to its employees, the dh and I are doing well. We almost lost everything under Raygun and came close to living on the street. We remember what that was like, and we cry for all the folks who are going through now what we went through then. Actually, if I lost my job, we'd be back to square one.

Neither of us served in the military. The didn't take girls when I was the right age. But we have tremendous respect for the men and women who are doing their duty. Even if their CIC is a war-mongering pig. (with apologies to pigs)

I'm a bleeding-heart, New Deal, Great Society Democrat, and the dh just changed from Independent to Democrat.

[cheshire]

21. Hi I am Dieharderdem,

Dieharddem was here first, I do not imply more loyalty than him/her.
My beliefs are lead by my heart.
Everyone counts, is important and worth our best.
Abortion is a womans choice because no one can speak for another.
War is not always the smartest choice.
Lying is wrong, Lying to all America after taking the oath of the Presidents office is a crime and the liar should be persecuted.
I believe in freedom of speech, I want to know my enemy also.
I believe that a clean environment is essential to all the world.
I believe gays need the rights that hetros have.
I believe the government should not interfere in voting, lifestyles or private lives of individuals.
I believe prejudice is alive and kicking and I fear ignorance and apathy are to blame.
I believe it is our responsablity to teach the next generation that they can make a difference.
I say if you don't stand for something you will stand for anything.
I firmly believe than the administration in office now would like nothing more than to kill off the weak and poor by not providing needs in order to become a nation of White Rich Bastards. Sound familiar?
I believe that if we can find a way to kick shrubs ass and appear decent then we will prevail.
I do not want America to turn back time. I do not want to be ashamed nor do I want the whole world laughing or know we are week.
I dont want some little chickenheart to call me unAmerican when he knows full well he is, was and always will be.
John Kerry told me he knew what was deep in my heart the first time I heard him speak to the senate and again at the DNC. I trust him.
I am a woman,wife,Mom,Grandma(Popo)self employed normally happy camper. My family is union, my children are grown and productive citizens that make my proud, my grandson is perfect, my dog is happy. My life is fine yet my heart aches for those who can't say the same.
God was a pacifist and Jesus was a Liberal. The murders commited in the name of religion offend my very being. Religion does not always speak for God and to use that to commit crimes is sacrilege.
God Bless America

[NewHampshireDem]

23. Don't forget to nominate this thread for the homepage!

:) BTW, great thread Mr. Scorpio!

[MrScorpio]

24. Thanks

I felt that with all the new members we've had join lately, we owe them an explanation in our own words, of who we are.

This is an up front, in yo' face challenge to all the disruptors too.

We're claiming our space and WE AIN'T GIVING IT UP!!

[EstimatedProphet]

26. I am the face of the Democratic Underground

I am Estimated Prophet.

I am an early 40's, caucasian male, engaged to an early 30's caucasian female. We both are educated, with Ph.Ds. I am a government biological scientist.

I have never served in the military, but I respect those that do. Unlike many ultraconservatives however, I do not believe that serving in the military is a requirement for having a valid opinion, or value to society. I do not question those who have served in the military any more or less than those who have not. In my opinion, military service is, rightfully so, a choice for each individual.

In some ways I consider myself religious. However, my view of religion is a much more liberal one than typically espoused by fundamentalists. I believe that God created the spirit of man in his own image. This includes all men, not just those who it is convenient to like.

I am a gun owner. I have 4 guns-a Ruger .45 ACP pistol, a remake of the M1 .30 cal., a 9mm rifle, and a 20ga pump shotgun. I own them because I like to shoot occasionally; I also hunt, but rarely, since I no longer care to get up at 2 am to freeze my butt off in the woods. I do not own them for "home defense" and am not concerned about break-ins. It's just not something I worry about. As to whether I would have any qualms about using a gun on an intruder-no, I don't think I would, at least not immediately. But, as I said before, I am not concerned about it.

I hold the Constitution and the Bill of Rights very dear. I am deeply concerned about the trend towards repression of opposing viewpopints that this country has taken in recent years. I worry that people simply do not understand the concept of Freedom of Speech, and that the hatred of the ACLU is terribly misplaced. With no ACLU (and similar groups) there would be no legal aid for supporting the Bill of rights, and it would soon fall by the wayside.

Mostly, I want to believe in the goodness of the average American. Lately I have seen things that disturb that image. It bothers me that we were so easily led into a war in Iraq; I blame the media in part for this, but I also am afraid that there is a substantial number of American citizens who have been brainwashed into believing in the arrogance of this administration, that military answers are the only effective solution, and that the United States and its citizens are fundamentally superior to the rest of the world. For too many there is only the glory fo war, and none of the tragedy. Sometimes I despair when I look at my fellow citizens and how hungry some of them seem to be for international conquest. But, then I look at how many of them are starting to wake up to what is really going on with our government, and find encouragement.

[TrustingDog]

27. I am a face of DU

I am TrustingDog.
I am Canadian, I am married, I have a teenage daughter that will not be as trusting as I had for too many years in what the mass media has been telling me and which I believed so wrongly so long. Now I trust more in people of the underground.

I am not a consumer, I am a citisen.

[Bluzmann57]

28. A face you may not see much on DU

I am a working stiff, lower middle class, enjoy some stuff that may be considered un PC by certain people but long ago gave up caring about it. I have a son from a previous relationship, who is 27 and did a three year hitch in the military and now has a family of his own. My wife has a son, 23, from a prior marriage and we have a daughter,20, who is an idealistic and fine young lady. We love them all. So that is family values because all we ask of them is that whatever they choose to do, be the best you can be, and we will support them. I suppose the repubs don't share our values, as we are not close to financially wealthy. We do feel, however, that we are wealthy inside, that is our hearts and souls. So thats who I am. Or should I say, thats who we are, as I am incomplete with my aforementioned family. I am the face of America, who the media is allegedly talking about when they say, "Joe sixpack" or "Mainstream America". Except that I don't feel that they are really talking about my family and all like us, just an idealized version of us. In other words, what they wish we were.

[MockSwede]

134. Reality

More here than you might think.

Your every day life beats the pants off of the media idealized version, because you made it and make it every day and its real. It doesn't go away when the electricity fails and the video tape stops.

Glad to have you hangin' in the DU!

(another working stiff)

[Spiffarino]

29. I'm the face of the DU

I am a Caucasian male, 45.
I have two grown daughters, one younger daughter, and a grandson.
I am firmly entrenched in the great American middle class.
I am proud to be a lifelong Democrat.
I voted for the first time one month after my 18th birthday.
I have voted in every municipal, state, and federal election I could for the past 27 years, except two local ones (one vacation and one surgery).

I believe in the Democratic ideal that everybody deserves a shot at the American dream who is willing to work for it.
I believe in the right of labor to organize.
I believe corporate power over elected officials must be mitigated.
I believe corporate control of information is the single greatest threat to our country and our democracy.
I believe in God.
I believe that God is not a member of any political party.
I believe you have a right to express your religious beliefs freely and openly.
I believe in the right to have no religion at all and that such beliefs deserve the same respect as mine.

Most important of all, I believe in the sacredness of the vote and
that any person or party that would steal your vote is guilty of nothing less than treason.

[VOX]

30. "I'm the face of the Democratic Underground"...

I'm rezmutt, and I approved this message:

I've worked in higher education for 25 years, in a variety of posts. I'm currently involved in fund-raising at a world-class university in a large city. I have seen up close what the radical cuts in the education budget have done to young people's dreams.

I am married to a terrific lady who does graphic design and business-identity work. She has a work ethic that puts me to shame. Since she's self-employed, she has to pay 100% of her Social Security, and she's terribly concerned about the possibility its privatization.

My big brother is gay, and I love him and his partner like crazy. They are family, and I am all for gay marriage, 100%. My brother used to be a conservative (!), but he is changing over the years. I am working on him to vote for Kerry, and he just might.

I've been around long enough to be horrified at what's happened to our country, now so sharply divided along partisan lines. The corporate media are largely responsible for this. With media ownership in the hands of a relative few, it is possible to impose a personal bias on a vast population. This bias is now predominately right-wing, as there is less $$$$-benefits from a liberal government for the mega-corporations that own the media. It is now entirely feasible for a person with right-wing convictions, listening solely to right-wing outlets, to have their personal views unchallenged over the course of days, weeks, months. This is one of the most corrosive phenomena our democracy is encountering, and it must be addressed, and soon.

I find it appalling that so many Americans live in poverty, or are without homes and shelter. Many of the people on the street are mentally ill, and have no access to care or medications. We have abandoned a large segment of society because they are somehow deemed "disposable," in that they do not participate in the everyday ebb and flow of capitalism. I believe that we are connected to every living thing, and have a stewardship responsibility to take care of those who are less fortunate.

I oppose the death penalty. All one has to do is search online for a list the countries that still have the death penalty, and one will quickly see that the U.S. does not really fit on that list with Afghanistan, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, etc. and China, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia and Japan. Countries that have banned capital punishment include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the U.K., Spain, Italy, Portugal, most of Europe, etc.

I am spiritual, and believe in a non-exclusive God of love and peace. Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Taoism -- all religions of the world, are, in their purest form, an attempt to reach the same place -- outside the finite and into the infinite. That some of these philosophies have been perverted into things dark and fearful, or used as a weapons, is a tragedy.

It is my opinion that all people should begin to think of the greater good, rather than what's good for the individual. If we do not, we will probably perish from our own selfishness. Sooner rather than later.

Just a few of my musings and ramblings. Peace to all -- :hug:

[RandomKoolzip]

31. I am the ass of DU.

I am Austin J. Hall (yes, I'm using my full real name, so go ahead you shithead freepers, do what you will. I'll give it back to you tenfold.)

I am 29 years old. I am proudly working class, proudly atheist, and proudly liberal. I'm married and I have two cats. I considered myself a Green until I realized my mistake in voting Nader in 2000 and switched to the Dem party.

I am a human first, a consumer third or fourth. I do not appreciate being treated as only a consumer.

I believe all humans are enitiled to a living wage. There is FAR MORE than enough money making the rounds to accomplish this.

I'm straight, but I believe gay people should have EXACTLY the same rights as I do.

I'm white, but I believe the majority of evil perpetrated on this world has been performed by white people. So while I may be proud of being liberal and working class, being white doesn't entitle me with shit.

I believe women should earn as much as men do. I believe all men ought to read Valerie Solanis's "SCUM Manifesto" at least once in their lives. I believe in castration for rapists. I believe women should respect no external law over their bodies. Their bodies are their own.

I believe the media is in the hands of a handful of far-too-powerful multinationals who steer the political discourse towards policies and politicians who aid the earning power of said multinationals. I believe that the media is overwhelmingly conservatively biased and I believe anyone who believes otherwise is a jackass.

My favorite color is orange.

I believe Paul Wellstone was murdered. I believe that the terrorist attacks on 9/11/01 were aided and abetted by our own government. I believe JFK was killed by the CIA. I believe that MLK, RFK, and Malcolm X were also murdered by agents of the government. I believe that our government, since the creation of the CIA has been too secretive, and had their hands in far too many clandestine operations around the world which have resulted in death, violence, and political oppression.

I believe I'll be voting for John Kerry.

I do not believe in a god. And I don't believe in hell either, so I can't go there.

Sorry.

I believe that all humans, regardless of where they were born or where they live now, are entitled to the same human rights as the free-est of all humans.

I believe the rich of this country suffer from wealth addiction and ought to enter a twelve-step program as soon as possible. I believe I don't give half a shit about "the size of government." Big government? Big business is a far more dangerous proposition. I believe that all humans should be entitled to free healthcare (again, there's more than enough money floating around to pay for it; all those CEO's have done NOTHING to earn their bonuses.)

I don't believe in government handouts. I believe in a well-regulated capatalism that doesn't exploit the weak to benefit the powerful. I believe that welfare worked better before it was "reformed." I believe the rich are "holding out."

I believe in a strong public education; I also believe that teachers ought to be paid at least as much as garbagemen.

I believe that Al Gore won the 2000 presidency.

I believe marijuana should be decriminalized. I believe alcohol consumption is stupid.

I believe you have the right to own guns. I also believe I fucking hate guns and how they've contributed to a more violent society.

I believe I love my wife and my family.

I believe that persons who do the most good for the greatest amount of fellow persons are better than those persons who only act out of self-interest, i.e. republicans, libertarians, and 99% of CEOs. I believe that corporations have far too much sway over everyday life and the legislation of our body politic. I believe Paul Wellstone was a better man than Newt Gingrich.

I believe Ayn Rand was a shitty writer and an abominable philosopher.

I believe I'm hungry for pizza right now.

[tigereye]

56. that was really cool RKZ

in fact this whole thread is amazing and inspiring! Thanks.

:yourock: all of you guys!

[NMDemDist2]

62. kick n/t

[TA]

32. I'm the face of the Democratic Underground

I am Terry Anderson

I am a 58 year old father of three and grandfather of four.

I served in the USN during Vietnam. I served when asked to preserve our rights as Americans to speak out against our government when it does wrong. By doing so I am not a traitor as our leaders like to say I am.

I traveled to NYC this week to march and express my rights along with 500,000 other Americans. I was proud to be among so many people who want a secure future and who are willing to fight so our children to have the same chances past generations have had.

[flvegan]

33. I'd like to be a face of the Democratic Underground

But I'm new, so I'll settle for being the hindquarters...

I'm a 32 year old heterosexual male, divorced, no kids, lots of animals. I'm a gym rat, and I run a non-profit animal rescue in Florida.

I believe Bush and his drones are hate-mongering assclowns, and I want them to go away, and so I'm here to help.

I believe that every person should have health care and a roof over his/her head. If you're a vet, and you can't make your own way, your fellow Americans should foot the bill.

I believe that money shouldn't make the world go around, and that the Bush Family ought to be lumped in with the other families: Gambino, Lucchese, Patriacha, Genovese, Trafficante...what's the difference?

I believe in justice, but I don't believe in violence. However, if you rape someone and get the crap pounded out of you, I can't find fault with your attackers, as maybe you've been harmonized.

I believe that your Escalade, Excursion and/or Hummer are sad coverups for a really tiny penis.

I believe that if a man wants to marry a man, or a woman a woman, then we should break out the champagne and be thankful that we live in a country where such "deviations" are not only okay, but pretty friggin' great.

I believe that a woman has the right to choose, and should choose wisely.

I believe that every person with a Bush/Cheney 04 bumper sticker just doesn't get it.

I believe that proof positive of getting your receipt after purchasing our government is the expiration of the assault weapons ban. Thanks, NRA.

I believe that animals are not ours to eat, wear, experiment on, to be forced to entertain us or provide profit to us.

I believe that DU is a kick ass place to be.

[rbnyc]

37. Welcome to DU.

You can be new and still be the face of DU.

:hi:

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

38. Welcome to Du, flvegan!

[MrScorpio]

39. Welcome to DU, Fivegan

Glad to have you

[bigwillq]

41. Welcome to DU!!

You're going to fit right in here!

[Jokinomx]

66. Welcome to the DU flvegan ...Hope to see more of your posts...:-)

:kick:

[burythehatchet]

122. Thank you for the work that you do.

[MockSwede]

133. Hindquarters

Well said. Keep speaking up and get active locally now, if not already.

We have John Edwards visiting us Wednesday. Working hard on getting that pulled off. Gonna rain, though, and it's outdoors and the UM Library.

Gotta ferry my daughter up to see him after an XC meet and my boy after soccer tryouts. Numbers count.

You're counted in, too.

[rbnyc]

34. I’m the face of DU.

I am rbnyc.

I believe in the power of community. I believe that if I work to elevate the people around me, I will find myself elevated.

I believe in the power of the law. I believe the law is there to protect us from ourselves when we are confronted with horrors. I believe the law is there to protect us from the tyranny of the masses. I believe the term “activist judges” is demeaning to the necessary role of the law in defending civil rights. I believe that times of great crisis are the worst times to bring sweeping changes to the law by introducing abominations such as USA PATRIOT.

I believe that negative forces make the most noise just before they die, and therefore I believe in the future. We are living through the final screams of an obsolete regime. The future belongs to us. I’m so sure of this, that I’m having a baby in 9 DAYS!!

(Thanks for starting this thread.)

[Jokinomx]

67. Congratulations on bringing a new life to the planet...:-) That is just

Awesome...

:-)

:kick:

[rbnyc]

75. Thanks.

It's a bit mind-blowing too!

:crazy:

[acmavm]

35. I am a believer in the people and the power of DU to influence and

educate. I am a believer that it is people like those on this board that are on the frontlines in the war to prevent the corrupt take over of our county by corporate interests and a corrupt regime interested in domination of the people by spying, lying, and facist policies.

I am acmavm, a middle 50's female trying to support my son in a country that is being run by special interests who have this system rigged. I have been working as a temp for a year and a half, have no health insurance, and a house payment that I'm always behind on. But I damn well refuse to give up. I will not allow myself to be lied to and take it meekly. I will not be stripped of my civil rights and the rights that should be inherent to any and all citizens of this country because I'm afraid.

I do not care, and never have, about whether a person is straight, gay, lesbian, or whatever. That part of a person's life does not effect me and is none of my business. And I certainly do not think that a person can be judged on that basis. That is no way to measure the worth of a human being.

I am trying to raise my son so that he understands that the answer to that age old question 'am I my brother's keeper' is yes. It is how we treat the weak, the aged, the poor, the sick, that will determine our worth as human beings. I am also trying to teach him that if he knows deep down in his heart that he is right about something that there is nothing, nothing, that should change his way of thought. The only things we really have in this world is our dignity (yes, even the poor can have dignity) and integrity, and we all must be ready to defend our beliefs because once you have lost the courage of your convictions, you've lost everything.

I believe this country has been hijacked by people who lie, kill, steal, and have no qualms about starting a world war if they think it will put a nickle in their pockets. I am not stupid enough to think that Dick Cheney did not press for this war in Iraq in order to make huge profits from a corporation from which he still received compensation, even if it is deferred compensation. I am not stupid enough to believe that our election this year is not in danger of being stolen again. Some people say get over it. I say never. I will never get over an act by the republican party and the Supreme Court that kicked the legs out from under 208 years of Constitutional rule set up by men who after fighting for independence, set up a government that has been the envy of the world. These men were far more intelligent and had more morality individually that the members of this administration combined.

Like the old Tom Petty songs says "They can stand me up against the gates of hell, but I won't back down".

[NMDemDist2]

53. sister!

:hug:

[Blue Gardener]

36. I am also the face of DU

I'm a 45 year-old Midwestern woman and life long democrat. I live in swing state, and I'm trying to persuade anyone who will listen to me to get out and vote!
I love my country and I want it back.

[vetwife]

40. Welcome Home Mr. Scorpio

You are right on the money ! I too am the face of DU. I work tirelessly for veterans and veterans benefits and concurrent receipt.
I work for equal rights from the ADA on. I get paid nothing monetarily but have put my activism to high places and succeeded.
I am married to a disabled combat Viet Nam vet who served with the 101st in 70-71. I am proud of his hatred for this insane war.
I am proud to be a member here. I am proud to serve America and I have gone in the hole trying to take America Back from talk radio to putting out a Take it Back Cd. I spend time taking care of my blind Father, 3 kids and my husband. I love America and that is why I want my country back ! I am a baby boomer...54 white Female and married to a Native american. I feel he is the original Billy Jack.
He is the most wonderful person in the world and said something truly beautiful one day to me. "Not all wars are on the battlefiled fought with weapons of war, some wars are of the heart and mind."

[bigwillq]

43. I am the face of the Democratic Underground

I am 26 years old Homosexual man who until 2 days ago was in a relationship of 3 years (I think we're going to get back together)

I am a sports writer, yes a member of the media, but I unlike some other outlets, vow to tell the truth at all times and be honest in my evaluations of story.

I believe people deserve to know the truth even with something as trivial as a sporting event.

I do not believe in God, although I was raised Roman Catholic. I have not been to church in 6 years except for a funeral or a wedding. I believe that institutional religion is nothing more that a higher class cult.

I do have, however, have faith. In my family, my friends, my neighbors and even in this country despite the mess the Shrub administration has made of it.

I believe in abortion, not as a form of birth control, but because I believe that people deserve choices,especially women concerning their bodies. I believe that the two G's "God and Government" should have no say in this issue. Especially since the majority of people running the country are males.

I strongly believe in the preservation of our environment. It's the only one we have, let's make it last for a little while longer.

I believe in the power of education for all people especially our youth, who are the future of this nation.

I believe that every American should be entitled to health care, especially for our children.

I believe Kerry-Edwards will be exactly what this country needs at this time and I have faith in the people of this country that they will elect them.

I believe that all humans should be able to marry whoever they choose and that gays should have all the same rights as straights.

I believe in equality for all people regardless of race, nationality, sexual lifestyle, handicaps and disabilities.

I believe DU is the best website on the net and that DUers are some of the best people in this world.

I believe in me, I believe in you.

[RetroLounge]

44. I'm the face of the Democratic Underground

I am Retro-Lounge.

I am a 43 yr old male, married, two children, living in suburban Milwaukee. I have a degree in Management Information Systems and a Masters in English. I write software for a living.

I believe I was better off 4 years ago.

I believe you were better off 4 years ago.

I believe the country was better off 4 years ago.

I believe the world was better off 4 years ago.

RL

[NMDemDist2]

45. I am the face of DU

i am a 49 yo married white woman who came from the lower middle class and has worked low end jobs my whole life until i started my own business as a direct result of 9/11

i am 12 years clean and sober and as such have seen the best and worst i can be and seen up close the power of the human spirit to rise above the worst in themselves.

i believe America has been hijacked by corporate fascists (an oxymoron I know)

i believe in liberty and equality for all and I will defend to the death your right to speak what I would spend my lifetime screaming against

I believe our citizens have been poorly served by our corporate media and the FCC needs an enema

i believe we are killing the planet with short sighted policies and this is the number one issue for me, since if we destroy the planet we are all destroyed with it

I have no children and had no religious training as a child so my love of humanity is something outside myself and not engendered by concerns of offspring or theological training

I am the face of DU on the streets of my town every weekend carrying the message that "Hope is on the way" for Kerry and Edwards and praying that the silent majority comes out in force to end the Bush regime in November

If the American people fall for the Bush lies again, I fear my heart will break and I will consider seriously emigrating to Canada. After fighting the Vietnam war in the streets, fighting for women's rights and equality, after fighting the Nixon, Reagan and Bush juntas for the last 35 years at the ballot box and on the streets, I'm not sure I can take one more defeat due to my fellow citizens laziness and disregard for the gift of the Founding Fathers.

I, too, am the face of DU.

[bigwillq]

46. This is an amazing post

You are a true survivor.
Stand tall and be proud.

You are an American hero.

[NMDemDist2]

47. ahh now you went and made me cry

thank you for your kind words

I am proud and I refuse to let the bastards make me afraid

I was debating about putting a Kerry sticker on my car a few months ago and realized they had me intimidated and I got MAD

so i have two stickers on the car, a pin on my purse and today after canvassing I wore my visor with the three Kerry Edwards stickers and pins into all the shops and stops I made on the way home with a smile on my face. I got some strange looks and I just grinned and held my head high

F#&k the fear mongering idiots! I refuse to knuckle under to ignorance and intimidation.

[bigwillq]

48. You are doing a great job

Hold that head up high.

Refuse to quit for this country. That's what we all should be doing.

[NMDemDist2]

50. from your mouth to our fellow citizens ears

freedom isn't free

our military fought with guns to protect my right to speak

our citizens must fight for our freedoms lest we go the way of fascism and despotism

if you aren't willing to give up a few hours a week to save your country, when so many have given their lives, you have no right to claim you are a patriot

and remember a war is not the only place people have died to give you freedom. the labor movement (for which we owe this long weekend) died to organize, died to make the bosses share the wealth

students died to protest an illegal war in the 70's and 2000 people were arrested in New York last week protesting

never give up, never surrender....

[Jokinomx]

68. Right On AZDemDist6 ... This election is about life and death...

Thousands upon Thousands of people are depending on us to change the direction of this country and thus the world. This election is the single most important election in our lifetimes. If Kerry loses...we all lose...

I marched in a parade yesterday and will again on Labor day for a local Democrat running for Congress. I wear my Kerry buttons proudly and talk to everyone I can who will listen..

Tonight I did a shift at the local Community Center. There was a singles dance and I am a fill in custodian. I had a person that was doing community service there to assist me. By the end of the night.... he was on the same page as everyone here and will be renting F-911 when it comes out next month and will watch it with his entire Family. I am in Michigan .. a critical state for either candidate and we now have two more votes for Kerry and most likely more as he talks to his Mother and Sisters.

Thank you for caring and Keep the Fire Burning...:-)

:kick:

[tigereye]

60. you should not feel like you cannot express your beliefs

you have a right to do that. That is what America is really all about.Good for you!

[MrScorpio]

49. We're right here with, AZ

To some pols, this is just a game. To us, it's our lives

Nothing is more serious than the job we have to do to turn this country around.

It's passion like yours that's going to do it

Stay strong

[NMDemDist2]

51. thanks for this thread Scorpio

it was a brilliant idea :yourock:

[Philostopher]

55. Great idea, MrScorpio!

From a fellow Scorpio, if you're referring to your astrological sign -- even though I'm actually a skeptic and don't pay much attention to religion or astrology or anything else that requires a faith in the 'unknown' ...

Yeah, I'm agnostic. If only for that reason, I'm a liberal.

Middle class, pushing 40, married white female with no progeny, but a house full of animals. I volunteer for an animal shelter, where I deal with other people's discards.

I'm too asocial to register voters, but I donate and write letters and support bloggers and sites like DU because even if other liberals are the only ones those places help -- well, we need it.

I'm also a closet poet, and this view of the Dim Son's administration is intended to scare the sh*t out of anybody who might be reading this and waffling on the fence:

_______________________________________________________-

LET'S TWIST AGAIN LIKE WE DID IN PIAZZALE LORETO*

While you wait in line at the airport,
To fly 700 miles for your living,
Some brown-shirted wonk
From your "elected" government
Reads the doctor's notes on your birth,
And your third-grade report card.
They're all in your file,
And it has been determined,
Through some process that will never be
Explained to you, that knowing this
Intimate information about previously
(Ostensibly, anyway) private citizens
Will keep terrorists from boarding planes.

Quid pro quo -- tell all your secrets willingly,
And maybe we'll let you fly somewhere,
So that you can make your living.

This information will tell the brownshirt...
What, precisely?
Well, what it will tell him
Precisely,
Is that you are willing to
Put up with ANYTHING
To get your paycheck,
As long as the "Texas" billionaires
Make the trains
Run on time
Too.

And that you are not only willing,
But goddamned gawky, tripping
Schoolboy eager to trade
The very quality and substance of your life
To avoid the mere threat of damage
That (likely) never will come.
Hell, you're orgasmic at the opportunity
To trade your liberty
And free motion for even the insinuation
That there might, somewhere in the world,
Be someone who might want to kill Americans.
(Like they weren't there all along.)
You don't even need the concrete evocation
Of death, anymore.
You just need to hear the bell,
And you salivate.
And you shit out all your private information
Like a giant, diarrhoetic Rottweiler
In Pavlov's lab.

You see, the "Texas" billionaires
Know it never will come; or, at least,
Know with a fair certainty when and where
It will come.
They know this because...?
Not because they've masterminded all the terror
In the world.
They needn't get their own fingers dirty.
Because they know how to inspire others to it,
And because you are, by far,
Not their only marionette.
And every bit as much as love-fear inspires
The shitting out of your misdemeanor drunk
Driving bust in 1979,
Hate-fear inspires murders.
Sometimes, exceptionally convenient murders.
But really, ask yourself how you could
Possibly believe
They do not have at least *some* knowledge
About such a deliciously lucrative phenomenon.
Remember the trifecta!

After all, if they have no control over it,
How can they make the trains run on time?

Too few remember how that one ended.
(Apparently, we're a couple of "Texas" billionaires
Shy of a sense of history, in these here tryin' times.)
The Great Train Scheduler and his lover
Twisting in the breeze above Piazzale Loreto.
I was not there, but the photos spoke loudly
Even forty years later.
This makes it possible for me
To get up in the morning
And to go to bed at night.
The vision of the Great Train Scheduler
Hanging by his ankles
Like a side
Of
Beef.


*The Piazzale Loreto is where the most famous photo of Mussolini and his minions hanging by their ankles was taken.

(IF BY SOME BIZARRE TURN OF EVENTS ANYBODY WOULD WISH TO REPRODUCE THIS, PM ME AND WE'LL TALK. MAZEL TOV.)

[NMDemDist2]

58. set it to music

it would work

[Philostopher]

59. It's one I've been to chicken to read at a poetry slam

But it was written to be read aloud -- might work! Maybe one of our many musician DUers will offer ... I have Garage Band at my disposal, if somebody finds it inspiring!

[tigereye]

61. I am a married mom

I am a mental health professional.

I have always been a Dem. and I feel that we are the truly wise and compassionate party.

I am a feminist and I have never apologized for it.

I feel women should always have the same rights as men and that everyone deserves the same chances regardless of skin color.

I do not care whom you love or marry as long as they are of age.

I think that we pretend to care for the well-being and safety of children in this country but do not. We should be horrified by our infant mortality and child poverty rates.

I believe that healthcare should be available to everyone.
I believe that being a liberal and a progressive is a wonderful thing.

I believe that changing laws that make us free do not protect us from harm and make us more like those who want to harm us.

I think our criminal laws are draconian and puritanical and hurt more people than they help.

I think that poverty and ignorance are the greatest problems we face in this country.

I believe in a kind God, not the vindictive one that appears to drive the recent conventioneers.

I do not believe that the right speaks for me, nor for most Americans.

I think that war and violence are inherently evil and nothing to celebrate, although I recognize that some evils are worth fighting.

I believe that abortion is a personal choice that a woman, her partner and her doctor should make.

I think that you people here are wonderful, and I am proud to associate with you!

[mike_c]

57. I am the face of Democratic Underground....

I am mike_c and I am a 49 year old white male, soon to be divorced. I'm a biologist and a university professor in one of the most liberal towns in the U.S. I honestly don't believe that I personally know any republicans.

I believe that there are way too many people in the world and that we are doing tremendous long term damage to our environment in exchange for short term profits, very unevenly shared. I believe that the "corporation" is an inherently psychopathic entity. I believe in putting people before profits.

I believe that the war in Iraq is a criminal enterprise, and that all involved in it, from the top of the command structure to the bottom, are criminals by definition. I believe that the occupation of Iraq is tantamount to organized crime, orchestrated by the PNAC and a bunch of neoconservative synchophants, based upon lies, and prosecuted by and upon poor people for the benefit of the wealthy. I believe that everyone who carried water for the Bush adminstration in this regard, including everyone who voted for the IWR, should face war crimes charges. I believe it is time for the U.S. to live up to the committments we made at Nuremburg, and at Geneva.

I believe in social justice. I believe that the foreign policy pursued by my government, in my name-- and from my name they draw its legitimacy-- is evil and corrupt. I believe it is meant to inflict as much suffering as necessary among poor people around the world to insure that the American middle class has a Carpet Town in every strip mall and cheap gasoline for their SUVs. I believe we have pillaged the planet for 100 years, and that now we are going to fight over every scap that's left until blood runs through whatever streets it has to to keep our illusions intact.

I believe that the war on terror is bogus, a marketing jingle used to sell perpetual war to an exploitable resource: frightened, ill-informed people on the verge of losing their priviledged way of life. I believe that the institutions governing this country have fired up a chaos generator to keep us angry and fearful for a generation or two until they bleed us dry and their scions own whatever is left.

I am not an optimist. I am an idealist, although somewhat cynical.

I believe in the power of collective bargaining. I am a union man.

I am a scientist. I believe that the pursuit of understanding is one of mankinds' highest callings, whether it be understanding of nature or understanding of our own human potential. I believe in the power of knowledge, but I also want to see the data.

I am an educator. I believe that education and learning enrich all who are involved in it to the degree they apply themselves, and that if an ignorant life is poorer, then a willfully ignorant one is destitute all the way to the bone. I despise the handmaidens of ignorance: intolerance, demagoguery, facism, and tyranny.

[librechik]

113. matcom must be asleep

or he'd be here saying he is the ass of Democratic Underground.

:loveya:

[NightTrain]

65. I am the walrus, koo koo ka choo.

Well, I am!

[nickgutierrez]

70. "I'm the face of DU"

I'm an unapologetic idealist and a card-carrying member of the so-called 'angry left'. A child of the '80s, a blogger, a college student, a believer in science who is dismayed that such a statement is still necessary in the year 2004. I'm an agnostic who does not attend a church.

2004 will be the first Presidential election I'm old enough to vote in, and I am voting for John Kerry this November, because of the damage done to our nation by George W. Bush. He damaged our economy with an indefensable tax policy, he damaged our ears with his incredibly stupid 'Bushisms', he's damaging the brains of our children with his 'education policy', and he's damaged our standing in the world by taking the goodwill that came our way after 9/11 and turned it into worldwide resentment over the predictable failure that is the war in Iraq.

I oppose policies that accuse me of being a terrorist. A spokesman for the California Anti-Terrorism Information Center (draw your own conclusions), Mike van Winkle, had this to say about protestors: "You can make an easy kind of link that, if you have a protest group protesting a war where the cause being fought is international terrorism, you might have terrorism at that protest". And these are the people that run our government? At the same time, true terrorists get off without so much an identification, let alone a trial, a verdict, and prison time. Is it right that, while NYC police arrest 300 peaceful protestors, that the man who sent anthrax to the Senate Minority Leader still walks the streets? Of course not, but this is justice under George W. Bush.

I oppose religious fanaticism, no matter what the fanatic may be. (I'm talking to you, Ashcroft.)

I believe that we deserve the right to free speech, the right to decide for ourselves about their bodies, the right to believe what we want. We deserve jobs, food, water, shelter, and basic medical care.

I oppose the corporate control of the media that has taken hold. News Corporation, General Electric, and a handful of others essentially control the flow of information in this country, and it doesn't help that most Americans are too lazy to actively search for the truth themselves.

I believe that you cannot stop terrorism by being terrorists.

I believe that what a person does in his/her bedroom is no more the business of the government than it is the business of myself. I believe in equal rights for gay and lesbian couples, and that Rick Santorum has a special seat in hell with his name on it.

I'm antiwarwarrior, and I approve this message.

[Mr Bojangles]

72. I am the face of Democratic Underground

I am Mr. Bojangles

I am a 23 year old unmarried (but not single) hetero male

I've only recently become involved in politics

The SNAFU in my state is partly to blame for that

I joined the union when I started my job because my father told me it would be a good idea.

After two years, I agree with him.

I believe that if two people love each other enough to want to, then
there is absolutely no reason that they should not be allowed to marry.

If you break into my home, I will defend myself and my property.

I should not be sued (and lose) if you break in and cut your hand on the knife sticking out of my block of cheese.

I was very unimpressed when Bush* flew over and "assessed the damage" in the aftermath of hurricane Charley.

I am currently posting from the NW section of hurricane Frances. Hardcore \m/-_-\m/

[sidestreamer]

73. I'm the hidden man in the shadow of the Democratic Underground

I am known by some as the Rat, but by the zodiacs, I am also the Pig and the Fish (Pisces).

I'm a 21-year-old writer who prefers to keep his distance from society and all of its social benefits, prefering the benefit of undisrupted observation that can only be afforded in extreme isolation.

I am one of a few who will not accept any argument from one who suggests cutting our national spending while simutaneously defending the massive military budget, which surpasses the remainder of the world put together. When two trillion in weaponry couldn't stop boxcutters, perhaps "throwing money at the problem" isn't the way to go.

While I believe in total social liberty restricted only by the rights of others to enjoy themselves without infringment, I have realized that my beliefs cannot survive without a defense, and I defend myself in every action I take.

Finally, I have no respect for hollow propagandists of any presuasion, and I take pleasure in pushing such people around, even if it ultimately hurts my own causes.

[LiberalVoice]

74. I'm one of the many faces of Democratic Underground

I am LiberalVoice,

I am 21 years old and the son of El-Sayed Nosair, one of the two terrorists found guilty of masterminding the bombings of the WTC.

I am a heterosexual who believes that two people can love eachother unconditionally without having to fall between the lines of "conventional" acceptance and mean no less.

I believe that if you disagree with me you have just as much right to say so as I do you.

I believe this world will stop trying to kill itself when people see 200 billion dollars as a way of feeding, clothing, caring for, and educating the entire planet. Rather then building faster, smarter, more stealthy weapons.

I am an outspoken atheist, and an even more outspoken LIBERAL.

[C_eh_N_eh_D_eh]

76. I am the face of Democratic Underground.

I'm not an American.

Okay, that was cheap. Sorry.

[Skittles]

77. I have always had a crush on MrScorpio

yes INDEED! :thumbsup:

[MrScorpio]

79. Skittles, You've just made a black man blush

Thanks

[murielm99]

78. I am the face of the Democratic Underground.

I am a 56 year old white female. I have three children in their twenties, and a husband of 26 years. I believe my Lesbian daughter has the right to a marriage as long and loving as my own

I live in a rural community. My husband and I used to farm, but now we rent out our land. I hate what has happened to rural America.

I have a master's degree, and I am a substitute teacher. I am underemployed because the jobs in my area have fled, and teachers have been cut. If I ever have my own classroom again, I will teach my students to be citizens first, and consumers last.

I am a life long Democrat. I am the treasurer of our county Democrats, and a precinct committeeman. I am a member of Planned Parenthood. I attended the March for Women's Lives in Washington with my two daughters.

I am a gun owner.

Three generations of my family have served in the military. My husband's uncle is a survivor of the Bataan Death March.

I intend to do anything and everything necessary to preserve democracy in my country.

[achtung_circus]

80. Kick

This is possibly the best thread I've seen on DU.

[Bunny]

81. Is it my turn to be Will Pitt?

:silly:

[Old and In the Way]

82. Great thread Mr. Scorpio....nominated for front page

and another kick as well.

[Bertha Venation]

83. I, too, am the face of DU. I'm Bertha Venation.

I'm a registered Democrat and a liberal, and if you care to use these labels against me as if they were bad things, go right ahead. Your labeling me as bad or even un-American harms me not at all, because I know who I am.

I am a patriot, and I love my country, although she has harmed me and innumerable other Americans since her birth. It would take a lot to make me leave, and current events often make me feel as if I'm on the precipice of "a lot."

I am a happily married lesbian; my beloved mate and I look forward to the day when our government recognizes us as our families and friends already do. I didn't leave the bosom of my family and the only home I'd ever known to move to the other side of the continent just for sex. I dare anyone to look me in the eye and tell me I am not married. If they've never been dessicated where they stood by a withering reply, they'll never forget the experience.

I believe in freedom of speech. If you choose to use that freedom to cause harm, though, it's no longer your right, and you will pay -- either in the courts or with the damage inflicted upon you by my weapon. I will protect myself against the violent fruit of hate speech.

I could never have an abortion, but I support and will fight for a woman's right to choose an abortion if she finds that to be her best option.

I don't much mind paying taxes because some of them are used for good in this country. Example: I have no children yet I willingly pay my property tax -- I don't begrudge the county the money it takes from me annually to help pay for schools. Example: I have needed welfare, both as a child and an adult, and I will never begrudge those who need it now the usefulness of my tax dollars.

I give cash and food to beggars. I cannot know the circumstances in which, for example, the toothless woman I see frequently on South Capitol Street, or any other apparently homeless person lives. I have stopped traffic at the western mouth of the Sousa Bridge to give money to a man who wears a full-length raincoat and boxes & duct tape for shoes. I don't know what it would be like to have to beg. I give the people who do it the benefit of the doubt, for as far as I know they truly need help. Do not attempt to tell me this is foolishness. I will not hear you. Finally, "there but for the grace of God go I" is bullshit. People who say that are saying "that poor person lacks God's grace" and "I do NOT lack God's grace. How special I must be."

There's a lot more to me than meets the eye. I am a formidable woman, strong, patient, intensely and deeply loving of beast and man. I will come to the rescue of the most unexpected persons (and have often been torn up for it, even here) and would give my life for just about anyone. One of my great failings is that I would adopt every stray cat for fifty miles; the strength in that is that I will also T-N-R them. I have voted in every election -- even local -- but three since I turned eighteen.

I am forty-one years old and my hair is turning silver. I'm thankful to be who I am and I'm thankful to be part of this world.

[MrScorpio]

84. Thanks, Bertha

I was really looking forward to a beautiful post from you.

You didn't disappoint me

[Bertha Venation]

86. MrScorpio, this is one of the best threads I've ever read, in ANY forum.

Thank you for starting it. I admire you so much.

[MrScorpio]

87. We are the faces of the Democratic Underground

We are of America and of the rest the World.

We all love our country and are all patriots, not matter what flag flies over our land.

We are young and old.

We are straight, gay, bisexual and transgendered.

We are married (Despite what the state says) and not-so-married.

We are parents, children, brothers and sisters.

We are aunts, uncles, cousins... and some of us are even great aunts of triplets.

We love all of our pets.

We love people who care for their pets and other animals.

The colors of our skin are every shade in the spectrum.

We speak many languages.

We are fighting men and women.

We are peace activists.

We are laborers and office workers.

We are students and teachers.

We are of all occupations.

We have seen the world and have never left home.

We are healthy and not-so-healthy.

We care about those who are left behind and reach out a helping hand.

We love art, music, good food and drink.

We value knowledge over ignorance.

We value peace over war.

We value democracy over hegemony.

We value sharing over greed.

We are many, many more things than can be put into words.

But one thing is for sure; We are here to stay and fight to preserve democratic values, ideals, rights and responsibilities for all, with our very lives.

You can't stop us, you can only join us.

We are the Democratic Underground.

[Jokinomx]

89. I second that.... but most of all... WE ARE AMERICANs!!

And we deserve to have our voice heard and ACCEPTED.

I am as MAD as Hell and I am not going to take it anymore!!

Thank You to EVERYONE that has contributed to this thread. It shows us all that we are not alone. We can come from all walks of life and have been raised in many different types of households...yet we all have matured to a point of acceptance of all people. We are all in this together ... whether we like each other or not. So as the great philosopher Rodney King once said...

"Can't we all just get along?"

Yes we can... you can feel it in these posts. Thank you all for being here and becoming part of my life.

:kick:

[WannaJumpMyScooter]

99. Yeah, baby! Right on!

That is IT.

[UrbScotty]

145. I am one of the many faces of Democratic Underground.

I am ih8thegop. I am a Caucasian male of German, Polish, and Lithuanian descent. I live in Kentwood, Michigan.

I like to watch game shows, “Ellen,” “The Late Show with David Letterman,” “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” and “Whose Line Is It Anyway?”

My grandfathers fought in World War II, and both were Democrats. My great-uncle died in the Armed Services.

Politics is my thing. Perhaps one day I will run for office. Even in West Michigan, I am proud to call myself liberal. “For the liberal society is a free society,” said John F. Kennedy, “and it is at the same time and for that reason a strong society. ” So bring it on, Republicans!

Like Kerry, I am a Catholic Democrat. Yes, I disagree with Church doctrine in a few cases, but I will not let a bishop or priest force me out of Church or deny me Communion without a fight. Catholicism is a religion of peace. You will not find Jerry Falwell or Pat Robertson at St. Mary’s Church in Grand Rapids.

I am pro-life. That means that I believe every life is worth living. 1,000 US troop deaths and thousands more Iraqi civilian deaths in a war that was most likely unnecessary is not pro-life. What’s going on in Sudan and Chechnya is not pro-life. And no, I don’t like abortion, but there are times when the health or life of a woman depends on an abortion.

I believe in preserving the sanctity of Democracy. I believe that involves registering as many people over eighteen as I can to vote. I also believe it involves requiring paper trails on voting machines.

We need to restore fiscal discipline in Washington. How do we do that? I believe that there is too much government waste, especially in the Pentagon. I believe that by curbing government waste, we can restore fiscal discipline reduce the federal budget deficit by the end of the decade and, perhaps, one day during my lifetime, we can say good-bye to the national debt AND have universal healthcare for all.

While I prefer not to give away my age, I will say that I would have to wait a few years to run for President. Which means, of course, that I am many years away from retirement age. I want Social Security to be there when I retire. I would prefer that these gloom and doom predictions of Social Security running to zero by 2041 not come true. They don’t have to come true if

My young age also means that a sustainable environment is a must. I do my part to conserve energy, and I encourage others to do the same. I believe my electricity should come from renewable resources. This would create millions of new jobs, and “no young American in uniform will ever be held hostage to our dependence on oil from the Middle East,” as John Kerry put it.

Speaking of our men and women in uniform, “You can support our troops without supporting our President,” said Trent Lott in 1999. I am proud to support the troops who have fought for my rights as an American! I support them by wanting a new Commander-in-Chief – who actually knows that war is hell – to take office in 136 days.

I was one of about 17% of Michigan Caucus voters who voted for Howard Dean, even though I was 99% sure Kerry was going to win. When Edwards dropped out on Super Tuesday, clearing the way for Kerry’s nomination, I supported him. I supported Edwards for Vice President. When Kerry announced that he’d picked Edwards for VP, I leapt for joy. I don’t believe Kerry and Edwards are perfect; who is?

And I will not give up. I don’t care if Bush is leading by 30 points on November 1. The fight ends no earlier than November 2.

And finally, DemocratSinceBirth’s sig line describes me well: “Democratic born, Democratic Bred, when I die I’ll be Democratic Dead.”

[SensibleOne]

88. I am the face of Democratic Underground...

I'm SensibleOne,

I've been reading but rarely posting on DU since early 2001. I come here every day.

I'm 42, married with two smart and lovely daughters aged 16 and 12. I now own my own publishing biz after being in the newspaper industry for 20 years. My daughters, husband and I talk about politics (particularly these days) quite often. My eldest is chagrined (!) that she is still too young to vote. She will be 17 in December, so I tell her she has a lifetime of votes coming after 2005! She has a Kerry/Edwards bumper sticker on the front of her school notebook.

I live in a liberal state in a fairly liberal city. Most of my friends are progressives. Our conversations inevitably come back to world events, most of us are on the same page.

My husband and I are on pool leagues. Our social circle mainly comes thru this hobby. Most of us are homeowners, married with kids. We have a lot of swim parties and bbq's.

I've been a Democrat since college (1980's) My first protest was early 2001. I was at the Oscars with Oral Majority and we had a perfect spot right in front of the red carpet to voice our outrage of the outcome of election 2000. (FYI: Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta Jones, Sting, Benicio Del Toro, & Donald Trump (lol)to name a few who gave us thumbs up!) I could not have known then what would transpire in the impending 4 years, but just knew it was going to be awful!

I believe in Women's rights. Over her body and her paycheck.
I believe in protecting the environment.
I believe we are heading down a dark road internationally.
I believe the war in Iraq was politically motivated.
I believe we were better off 4 years ago than today.

I believe in John Kerry and John Edwards.

They have my vote in November 2004.

[NMDemDist2]

90. thanks and kicking it again

:kick:

[EstimatedProphet]

91. Kick

This is a very good thread Mr. Scorpio

[Christof]

92. I want to be the face of the DU.

I am the vampire Christof, and:

I believe in many of the same things as you, but I'll outline them. :)

I am not a war-mongerer. I believe there are alternative solutions to fixing problems instead of using bloodshed.

I believe in freedom of speech for EVERYONE, including the RW fascists .

I believe in the freedom of privacy. It's no one's business what I'm doing in my own home or when I'm out in public. That includes what kinds of sexual acts I may or may not be participating in my bedroom. What I do in my personal, private life is no one's business but MINE!

I do not like abortion, but I am pro-choice. There's a difference. I believe women should be able to abort a child if she chooses not to have it. It's none of my business if she gets one, right? It's only between her, her god or spiritual leader, and her doctor. NOT between her and the government.

I am pro-environment. I believe we should preserve the planet for generations to come. I believe we should look into many different types of alternative fuels for our homes, business, and transportation vehicles, not only for the Earth's sake, but for our own sake (and health) as well. I think we should be preserving our wildlife. Somewhere down the road, when future generations look back at us, do you want to be remembered as a bringer of extinction?

I believe everyone should be able to marry if he/she chooses to, from heterosexuals to homosexuals.

I am a Christian but I believe we should keep religion out of government. We need to be sensitive to those of differing religions who live in this country. We cannot advocate one religion in the government when there are hundreds of different religions in this country.

I believe we should help our nation's poor. If you really do believe in God and Jesus, why not help out the poor? After all, in the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament of the Holy Bible, doesn't He preach that we should help out our fellow man?

I believe we need to be more tolerant of those who are "different". There are many different types of people from all backgrounds and all countries of the world living here in the United States. Why hate them because they're different? Diversity is what makes this country great!

This is but a taste of my beliefs. I have many more. If you'd like to know more about them, ask me and I'll gladly tell you. :)

[gollygee]

93. I am the face of Democratic Underground

I'm a housewife and mother.

I believe that if the rights of one group of people are marginalized, our country as a whole is marginalized.

I believe in separation of church and state.

I believe that war is sometimes necessary. But not this time.

[Political_Junkie]

94. I too am the face of DU.

I am Political Junkie, a 39 year old bisexual female. I am single, but I have a beautiful 17 year old son, and I will do everything in my power to assure that he lives to a ripe old age. I was raised in a liberal household, but have grown up to be even more left than my mother who raised me, for the simple reason that, as a child growing up on welfare, it never made sense to me that there were haves and have nots. Why should one be allowed to eat his fill while others starve.
I believe we are all one people.
I believe I am my brother's keeper.
I believe in the inherent goodness of humanity, despite the history of powerful.
I believe that this administration and all their buddies hiding in the background will be the death of this nation if we do not stand up and fight for it. And though I am not patriotic, nor do I support nationalism of any kind this is my home, and I will fight for it.

[Piltdown13]

95. I'm the face of Democratic Underground too

I am Piltdown13.

I'm a 29-year-old female graduate student in paleoanthropology, working on my dissertation and looking for a faculty position. I hope to spend the rest of my career teaching and doing research, but I know that major changes in how this nation views education and science, particularly from a funding standpoint, are necessary if I and many of my peers -- especially women -- are to be able to succeed in academic careers and foster the next generation of scientists. It just doesn't work to have steadily increasing numbers of researchers chasing after a shrinking pot of money, nor can education flourish in the face of massive cutbacks and hiring freezes that force many promising young faculty members into short-term and part-time positions with no job security, no chance for advancement, and a very uncertain future. Therefore, I believe it to be essential to encourage my colleagues to become more politically active, even if they "don't have the time," because after all -- if things don't change for the better, we may have more free time than we ever wanted standing in the unemployment line.

I am grateful to all the feminists of past generations for making my life easier than I can probably imagine, and I recommit myself every day to doing what I can to ensure that the gains made in the past are not lost, that lost ground is regained, and that the foundation is laid for future progress toward true equality -- and not just for women, but also for people of color, GLBT, older Americans, the disabled....

I believe in freedom of speech, a woman's right to choose, every individual's right to health care, and every worker's right to a living wage and a union. I also believe that my gay friends and family members have just as much a right to marry the person of their choice as I have.

I believe that de-regulation of industry/business has failed, and that the time has come to recognize as a nation that we cannot simply rely on the good natures of corporations and CEO's to protect the environment and treat their workers fairly and with respect. Environmental and labor laws with teeth and a generous enforcement budget are needed. And the Fairness Doctrine needs to be reinstated!

I believe that perhaps the single greatest threat to our nation's future during a second Bush term is the probable loading of the nation's judiciary with young neoconservative jurists. It's not just the Supreme Court, either; immesurable damage could be done through the federal appeals circuit courts alone. Although much of the *legislative* damage of both this term and a potential second term could be undone once a Dem gets into the White House, those will be hollow victories in the face of a judiciary that may simply refuse to enforce the laws.

I believe it's every citizen's patriotic duty to vote in each election, and to encourage others to do the same. That's why I'll be registering as many voters as I can before the deadline!

I'm also an animal lover, and I believe in no-kill shelters and trap-neuter-release for ferals...and so do my two rescue kitties!

I believe in many other things, but I also believe I've hogged enough space :-).

[Raster]

96. Thank you for the wonderful post. DU is vast and diverse.

Most of us are here because we are terrified that the country we know and love is slipping from our grasp. We want to protect, defend and preserve the America and the democratic system we believe in.

I am gay, 47, and married to a woman. In my professional life I am part of the financial establishment.

I believe that this country and the American people are at a very painful crossroads. It is time for all of us to take a very long, hard look at our country's actions and decide if this is who we wish to be.

I am the face of Democratic Underground.

[truthbetold]

97. So am I.

I am truthbetold.
I'm a 18 year old female who lives in New York.
I'm a pacifist who believes in war only as a last result. I proudly proclaimed my disapproval of this war and this administration.
I am pro-choice, and hell bent on making sure this country stays that way. Just because I wouldn't do it, doesn't mean you can't.
I am an aspiring journalist/activist- I think the Left needs its own female icon. I'd love to give that Anne Coulter the verbal smackdown.
I am strongly for gay rights, because my homosexual older brother is my best friend. Damn it, he deserves everything and more!
I used to be Roman Catholic, because I was forced into it by family pressure. Currently, I find myself leaning towards atheism.
And...I'm a proud Yankees fan. :evilgrin:

[mike_c]

98. kicking this in hopes that it stays alive a bit longer....

This is one of the best threads I've ever seen on DU. We are a diverse community, united by our common love of tolerance, education, service, and freedom. All except <name deleted>, of course, who I'm convinced is a stealth freeper. :evilgrin:

Here's to us all: :toast:

[LanternWaste]

100. "I'm the face of the Democratic Underground"

I am Lantern Waste.

I am a Christian above and beyond all other things. If you think I'm forcing my faith on you when I pray before every meal, whether in a public place or not-- tough, simply don't look my way.

I am an American Freelance Writer and Creative Consultant living in Cancun, Mexico and detest writing for commercials-- I feel that I contribute nothing of substance to planet in what I do for a living. ("The sin upon my head, dread king")

I believe in the Christian ethic of Stewardship of *all* things and believe it is not only my responsibility, but a commandment upon me to leave this planet in a better fashion than I left it.

I believe we are all completely responsible for each other, regardless of what Victor Hugo referred to as "those little, imaginary red and blue lines on the map". Charity is an important concept of our lives and out of that, I believe every man will reap what he sows.

I believe that part and parcel of charity is attempting to make others feel as comfortable as possible around us.

I am a straight, white, heterosexual male and I don't consider myself any better or any worse than anyone else on this planet.

I am a sinner and have a hard enough time dealing with my own sins than to worry myself with the sins of others (unless they have a direct affect on me or those around me).

I carry the Bible around with me and refer to it often. I also carry around Grant's, "English Grammar and Structure" and the daily newspaper and I refer to those often, too. I don't happen to think that any of these things makes me an extremist or deluded.

I think that classic literature is necessary for a more complete understanding of who we are.

I am tolerant of many more things than I was when I was growing up... regardless of whether I condone them or not.

I believe that (as Churchill once said) that "Democracy is the worst form of government... except for all the others".

I am an animal lover. I weep more for abused animals than I do for abused people. I don't know why, but I do.


I am your neighbor and if I see you, I'll wave and smile. :hi:

[vetwife]

101. We are the face of the Real America !

Face it....I am the Face of DU. After reading all of the I am the Face of DU posts, instead of being the Face of Democratic underground, the world should see we are the Face of Democratic Above Ground and front and center of all that is good and valued that does not carry a price tag to be counted. We are for peace. We believe in strong defense. We do value life. We do care about our neighbors and our troops and our veterans and our elderly and our children. We believe charity should go to the homeless family on the street instead of the rich Halliburton family.

We believe in equal opportunity for all not just the wealthy. We believe in helping those less fortunate. We are what makes America great. We work, we live, we pay taxes, we care, we worship, we have tolerance for other beliefs, we offer helping hands. Our children, our sisters, brothers, families have fought and died as soldiers. We are America. We are not the other America that has been forced upon the world. We love our allies. We cherish the gift from France. We don't bully our way into lives and bedrooms. We believe in balanced budgets. We believe in accountability. We are the grownups. We are America.

[Terran]

102. "I am the face of Democratic Underground"

Gay white male, 44. I have been partnered with the same man for over 18 years. We have four cats, a three-toed box turtle, and a slew of guppies.

I am occasionally snappish and sarcastic toward people here, and most of them probably didn't deserve it. To all whom I have offended over the years, I am sorry. I'm really a nice guy. Ask Cat Woman and Geniph.

I value the power of Big Government to *help* make things right, but it all comes from the local level. I believe 'throwing money at the problem' is highly underrated. Maybe this is because I work in the field of homelessness and affordable housing, and I see how little the government spends on these things compared to, say, killing people in other countries.

I am a technologist and an internationalist. I belive that world government is a good thing, and that George Bush's concept of "sovereignty" is a very bad thing--for all countries.

I'm not religious, but I am spiritual. I think organized religion is one of god's great jokes on humanity, and yet I do think god's out there. I just don't think more than a handful of humans have ever had the slightest grasp of what god is.

I'm a liberal and a progressive by choice, a Democrat because they're the ones who get elected. I admire the good that the Dems have accomplished in my lifetime. I support the Green agenda.

[Jean Louise Finch]

103. I am a new face of the democratic underground

I am Jean Louise Finch.

I am 25 years old and have spent the last four years of my life living outside the US, 3 years in Switzerland and now in Bangkok.

I grew up in rural New Hampshire with my parents and my older brother, a georgeous family that taught me that hate and exclusion and distrust of my neighbors was a surefire way to lead an unhappy life.

Outside looking in, I miss the incredible diversity and gift of optimism that permeates the entire culture. I want nothing more than for that hope to be elected in November. I fear that if Kerry does not win, this perfect hope will ebb, and this distinct American optimism will be fundamentally changed.

I believe that everyone should be assured the opportunities that I have been born into: a strong education, excellent health care, a decent home, productive employment, and a loving family.

I believe that women have the right to protect themselves, and that they have the right to make the decisions that will affect their lives more than anyone else's.

I believe that the human species must take the role as steward of the oceans, forests, mountains, and wetlands; not for the benefit of ourselves but for the respect of other life forms in their own right. We have asked too much of our local and global environments, and must protect what can be salvaged.

I believe that no one family structure fits all. If there is love, it is good.

I believe that everyone has goodness in them, everyone has hope. I believe that people are essentially social creatures; they want to trust their neighbors and build others up along with themselves. I believe that people are also fearful creatures, and that fear can and has been exploited by misguided leaders. I have to believe that hope will win out over fear.

[MrScorpio]

104. Welcome to DU, Jean Louise Finch

Good to have you around

You are very welcome to stay

[kiahzero]

105. I'm the face of the Democratic Underground

I am KiahZero.

I'm a 20 year old college student, studying Computer Science and Political Science. I'm going to go to law school upon graduation to focus in civil liberties / human rights law, and hopefully work for an organization like the ACLU, AU, or PFAW.

I think that the focus on "sexual orientation" is absolutely nonsensical. If we hold that the sexes are equal, then it doesn't matter what sex one is attracted to; just like there's no notion of "racial orientation," because it doesn't matter what race a person is that one falls in love with.

As you might guess, I strongly believe in freedom of speech, up to and including the kind of obnoxious, hateful, stupid speech that regularly comes from bigots of all types.

I think abortion is a non-issue up until roughly the third trimester, when the cerebral cortex develops, allowing for the presence of higher brain functions (that can mark the distinction between life and death). After that, I think that an abortion should only be done for the health and safety of either the mother, or if the fetus is so developmentally damaged that it doesn't stand a chance of surviving. I don't think that this should be legislated - just between the doctor, the mother, and possibly the AMA.

I believe that anyone who says "Separation of Church and State is not in the Constitution" is either lying, or is a fucking moron (possibly both). When it says that Congress shall pass no law respecting the establishment of religion, the separation of Church and State is a logical consequence. Given A, B must be present. It's just that simple.

I believe that "original intent" is the dumbest way to interpret the Constitution - there's no way to really determine it, and it doesn't really matter anyway. It's not my "original intent" that matters when I write a contract, it's what the contract says. It's not the "original intent" that matters to a legislator when they're crafting a law - it's what the law ends up saying.

I think that the biggest problem with the political media is not its ideological bias - it's the content-free coverage that doesn't do anything to inform anyone of what the issues are.

I could go on, but I'm done for now, I think.

[Beware the Beast Man]

106. I am Beware the Beast Man, the face of Democratic Underground.

I believe that free speech is first and foremost the building block of a free society. Once you silence the masses, other rights tumble like dominoes.

I believe it is the goverment's responsibility to keep its citizens safe, productive and happy without sacrificing their civil liberties or their dignity.

I believe our elected officials should work in the intrest of the people, not large corporations and special interest groups.

I believe we should have a strong military presence, yet only spring to the defense when there is a clear imminent danger to our society.

I believe in God and in Jesus Christ, yet believe it is not the government's position to enforce a set of spiritual beliefs that may run contrary to its citizens' spiritual (or secular) convictions. It is also the right for people to practice their respective religions freely within the bounds of civil law.

I am pro-life, but also believe it is a woman's choice and ONLY a women's choice to seek out a safe abortion if she must.

I am against gun control. Citizens have a right to bear arms, but they do not have the right (nor need) to own assault rifles and grenade launchers.

This is our planet. We only get one. Let's not pillage it and make enemies with our neighbors.

I am Beware the Beast Man, a voice of Democratic Underground.

[Bombero1956]

111. I too am the face of DU

I am a 48 year old Puerto Rican male married with 3 kids and 3 grandkids. I am a 26 1/2 year professional firefighter and union member. My worked my first job at the age of 8 picking cucumbers and at 14 worked in tabacco fields, from the age of 17 I have not spent more than a month without a job. That experience taught me the importance of paying people a living wage and how corporate American exploits the poor and uneducated. The person I admired the most was my mother-in-law who grew up in occupied Holland during WW II. It was from her that I learned the power of activism. From her experience during the war she became a tireless advocate for the poor and organized a food bank in her community. I remember her building a "government cheese" village when Reagan came to town to illustrate the plight of the working poor and elderly. Sadly we lost her to breast cancer in 1993, but if she were alive today, she'd be in the trenches fighting the good fight and urging everyone to vote our future and vote Democratic.

[LibertyorDeath]

109. Cheers

:toast:

[ewagner]

112. I am the face of the Democratic Underground

I'm ewagner.

I've been down the road to idealism and back again.

I've been an elected official, campaign manager and activist and am torn between my ideals and the crap that is necessary to win campaigns. Thomas Jefferson had it right: By the time a man does all that is necessary to obtain public office, he is no longer worthy of it.

I know the difference between campaigning and governing.

I dislike people who believe that there is only one way to do anything. I despise false patriotism. I loathe hypocrisy.

I was raised in a strict religion but abandoned it when I started reading for myself. My conclusion: There should have been an 11th Commandment stating Thou shalt mind thine own business!

One size does NOT fit all.

There are no absolutes.

[JohnKleeb]

118. Well ok

17 year old guy and hetero. All around liberal, yet I believe I have some traditionalism in me, I believe in the Catholic Church that gave people like my grandparents faith even though they had it though, that those who serve our country are heroic, that the blue collar worker is the backbone of our society and that unions are one of the greatest things ever, I joined the UFCW at 16 even though it meant reducing my pay, I am a social liberal, I believe in full equallity, the right to choose, etc, I am an economic liberal, unions should be able to organize without fear of losing their jobs, social security should never ever be privatized, the retirement age should be 65 in honor of people like the Beltz's and Kovalcik's who worked their whole lives only to die too young, I am a dove, I only believe in going to war when we have to and I decry nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons. I am inspired by everything from great people, faith, books, films, and even video games. I love my ancestral countries as much as I do America because they are always with me even if I do not speak the Gaelic, German, Slovak, or Slovene language, I will always have it in me and I will always think of those who came before me.

[MrScorpio]

120. Thanks, Kleeb

I'm happy you posted

[JohnKleeb]

128. I just had arrived home last night

Yeah, nice idea on your part. I should have mentioned that speedo thing heh but that has nothing to do with my values.

[Spazito]

119. I'm the face of Democratic Underground...

I am a 50 year old widow with 2 awesome kids and 5 adorable, bright grandchildren.

I believe we are all of value regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual preference, age.

I believe that George Bush is a danger to the world, he has made us ALL less secure.

I believe this US election IS incredibly important and those of us who live beyond the borders of the US are watching with keen interest and a great deal of hope that bush will be out and Kerry in as of Nov 3, please make it so!

I believe that Canadians and Americans really are GOOD neighbours and we will overcome the attempt by the bush administration to cause rifts between us.

I believe that DU is the absolute BEST site on the net! It allows me to: read news from all over the world; to support the left by donating to DU; to laugh and to cry from one thread to another; to be in awe at the incredible talent gathered here.


Thank you, MrScorpio, for starting this thread, it is a wonderful read!

[MrScorpio]

121. Thank you for posting, Spazito

This thread is about you too

[Paradise]

123. One face of the Democratic Underground

I know that John Kerry volunteered to serve his country in Vietnam, although he could easily have avoided it!

I know that John Kerry returned from an unjust war, fought to end that costly bloodbath, and fought to spare the lives and limbs of his brothers in Vietnam, and the Vietnamese people!

I know that John Kerry has honorably served the people of the United States in Congress for 20 years!

I know that John Kerry is intelligent, and well-read!

I know that John Kerry is comprehensively well-informed!

I know that John Kerry has the experience to be President!

I know that John Kerry has the strength to be President!

I know that John Kerry has the courage to be President!

I know that John Kerry will fight for the average American!

I know that John Kerry will work his heart out for us!

I know that John Kerry is respected around the world, and America will rejoin the world community under his leadership!

I know that John Kerry will be a wise and strong Commander-In-Chief!

I know that John Kerry will make us us safer at home and abroad!

I know that John Kerry will not preemptively attack a sovereign country unless it is absolutely necessary, as it was in Afghanistan!

I know that John Kerry will give us back our democracy!

I know that John Kerry is a good man!

I know that John Kerry will be a great President!

There are a multitude of positives about John Kerry, and, if we don't know them all now, we'll see him in action when we put him in the White House!

[NMDemDist2]

124. kicking it again

great post from all our members... thanks

[kwolf68]

125. Awesome Mr.Scorpio

.

[Kathy in Cambridge]

126. another kick!

:kick:

[Raster]

127. KICK!

:kick:

[Robb]

129. BREAKING: Skinner to shave DU's butt

...and teach it to walk backwards. :D

:evilgrin:

[Paradise]

130. Yes, MrScorpio, Awesome! :) n/t

[johnnie]

131. I'm the face (baby is that clear?) .....A Who reference.

I am the face:
I am a single, 40 year old, heterosexual male who has never been married and I have no children (none that I know of...ba da bum... har har)
I have been a liberal thinker my whole life and conservative on some aspects of living that don't hurt anyone else.
I am an Electrical Engineer by day and a singer/songwriter/recording engineer/producer by night (and in my mind during the day)
I was raised in a semi liberal household by a mother who just wants to go to Heaven and a father who retired as a NASA employee and retired as a SGT Major of the U.S.M.C.

I support pro choice for women (and their men who needs to make that decision sometimes also)

I support pro life when it comes to slaughtering thousands of innocents that are just trying to live in their own country.

I believe that compassion should be the core of all that we do and say.

Free speech, freedom of loving whom you want and freedom of hate and discrimination are important to me.

I believe that G.W. and his administration have trashed my Country and I am fighting to get back whatever we can salvage from their years in office.

As I write this, my heart is aching while I watch reports on the Russia massacre.

[Kathy in Cambridge]

138. The Russian massacre

:cry:

words can't express the horror!

[Kathy in Cambridge]

136. Another KickyPoo

[Moonbeam_Starlight]

137. I believe you rock Mr. Scorpio

you are definitely my kinda person.

I believe you can tell where a country's priorities lie if you look at how they treat the oldest, youngest, and sickest among their population. And I believe the US doesn't come out so hot on that one.

I believe I'd like to see that change. And am working toward that end.

[MrScorpio]

139. It's now just about me, it's about you guys

For the longest time, before DU, I felt that I was the only person that the way that I do about things.

I grew up is a union home. I've lived through the worst of poverty. I've experienced racism first hand and I've seen injustice on a massive scale.

I've also seen the halls of power work for a select few.

I asked myself, what's wrong with this picture? I didn't like the answers.

I was lucky that I was in DC at the time. That's where I received my political education. WPFW, Pacifica radio, South End Press. Chomsky, Zinn, C-Span, the streets and so on. One other thing, the Pentagon where I worked, can be political education in itself.

After traveling the world, I got a good taste what the other side looks like.

Needless to say, despite the fact that I've spent almost half my life in a military uniform, I remain a progressive.

Now that I'm at DU, I know that I'm at home. For me, that's why this post is about you.

[wovenpaint]

140. I 'm also the face of the Democratic Underground

I'm Wovenpaint

I'm a third generation artist and a weaver.

I'm a late 40's single(divorced)woman with a son aged 22, another son aged 20 and a daughter aged 19. They're fourth generation artists. I'm very concerned for their future.

I was raised to be a political junkie in a liberal family and have raised my children to think for themselves and to question authority.
We believe in the golden rule.

I'm a cat person, purple lovin' Gemini with 2 cats, 2 dogs, 2 alpaca and 5 chickens.

I live in suburbia, luckily in a liberal state. I'm an optimist-right now, trying very hard.

I believe that women have a right to autonomy. No one has any right to attempt to choose our life's path for us, for any reason.

I believe that we all have a sacred responsibility for the safekeeping of our world for our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, etc. This includes our environment as well as peaceful co-existence between civilizations and nations.

I believe that we should be encouraging all expressions of love and commitment with no regard to gender. What the world needs now is love,... (feel free to sing along):loveya:

I believe the death penalty is wrong. I don't like guns, but have come to understand why people are so adamant to the right to bear arms and can accept that.

I believe that our "leaders" are fully responsible for 9/11 and are warmongers and war criminals.

I believe that terror/evil always has been and always will be. To "declare war" on it, empowers it to no good end.

I believe if alcohol and caffeine use is legal, then other drugs should not be illegal.

I believe that as a wealthy super power, all of our citizens have earned the right to free/affordable health care, a superior education, a good career/family life and the utmost respect and care as an elder.

I believe there's alot more to this existence than we can even begin to fathom. As an artist, I see God daily in the details. But I don't entirely feel Christian anymore, I identify more with Native American spirituality (ancestors calling).

And to paraphrase a friend of mine, I believe that humans are "hard wired to help each other". We're driven by either fear or love. Right now, I believe the balance has been intentionally tilted toward fear.

I believe this will change.

I believe in America.

[MrScorpio]

141. Welcome to DU, Wovenpaint

And thanks for your excellent post

[wovenpaint]

143. Thank you

This has been fantastic reading, and I congratulate and thank you for starting this thread!
I look forward to coming here to visit with my DU "Buddies" on a daily basis-Thanks to all for helping to keep me sane.

[Political_Junkie]

144. That was absolutely beautiful, Wovenpaint,

thank you. :hi:

[DemWitch]

142. I am also the face of DU

I'm a 41 year old single gay man who shares my home with my best friend, a 5 year old Pit Bull mix named Kyra and two cats Enki and Xander.

I am a 17 year government employee, in the human services field. I am a proud member of the CSEA Union, and feel that unions are the greatest force in protecting workers against corporate wrongdoing. I think that profits on the back of employees is not productive.

I am a Witch, I practice what is probably the oldest form of celebrating Diety on the planet. I am grateful I live in a country where my choice of religion is not only accepted (for the most part) but protected.

I am anti-death penalty and anti-abortion. I feel that my anti-abortion stance ends at my front door, for my beliefs are mine alone and should not be forced upon another, nor should there be laws forbiding abortion. I beleive in assisted suicide, for our bodies and spirits belong to us and not to the government.

I own a firearm, and I will use it to defend myself or the ones I love. It is registered and I am licensed. I feel all firearms should be, and stiff penalties imposed should they not be.

I smoke... alot. If you don't like it you don't have to come into my home or ride in my car. I will fire back if a rude comment is made about my tobacco use.

I love big gas guzzling boulevard cruisers, and I think gas is way too cheap. If I choose to drive a 79 Lincoln Mark V, there is no law that says I should be allowed to do so cheaply.

I don't think all republicans are bad, and I don't think all democrats are good. I don't think the left is always right and the right is always wrong. I think the animosity between the left and right is born out of fear, not power. Fear that one party will revert us to pre 50's ideals, one party fearing that all people will be equal.

I think too many politicians say things they don't believe just for a vote. I think too many people want politicians to say things they don't beleive so they will vote for them.

I still cry when I see the Towers. I still seethe with rage when I think of the loss. I think Afghanistan was a noble venture. I think Iraq is possibly the worst human rights abuse America has ever perpetrated.

Other than FDR, I think Clinton was the best President ever. Other than Bush, I think Nixon was the worst.

I think America is the best country in the world, but I also think we have a long way to go towards bettering ourselves.