The New Human Relations Commission put on their first Caesar Chavez Day event in Davis. Much as the case was with the Martin Luther King day events, the minority community mostly stayed home. That point aside, the city needs to change the location of this event, the sun is not in a good location, there is very little shade, and most of us who are melanin challenged cannot sit in the seats for a prolonged period of time.
As usual there were a number of elected officials there–Supervisor Mariko Yamada, Mayor Sue Greenwald, Councilmember Lamar Heystek, and Assemblywoman Lois Wolk.
When Assemblymember Wolk closed her speech with “¡Sí, Se Puede!” it just did not sound right. It wasn’t just because she sounded like an Anglo, but rather it is her record on helping the farm workers.
One of the most significant pieces of legislation passed by the legislature in the days since the death of Cesar Chavez was AB 923 in 2003. This bill authored by Assemblymembers Herb Wesson, the late Marco Firebaugh, and then board of equalization member Carole Migdon was a very innovative piece of legislation that would redirect state resources to bolster medical care for some of California poorest workers–most of whom have no health coverage–without raising taxes.
This was a revenue neutral bill that required the Board of Equalization, Employment Development Department and Franchise Tax Board to work together to convert the sales tax exemptions into farm worker health insurance tax credits.
So why did Assemblywoman Lois Wolk oppose it?
According to the San Francisco Chronicle (6/10/03):
Wolk voted against the bill and said she was opposed to it on a number of grounds, including the belief that it should not be permanent — that it should contain a “sunset,” in legislative parlance.
This would of course lead to memorable showdown between Richie Ross, the campaign consultant who also lobbies on behalf of the United Farm Workers and Craig Reynolds, the architect of developer Davis campaigns for issues such as Covell Village and many of the developer council, supervisor, and Assembly campaigns. Reynolds also worked as Lois Wolk’s chief of staff after serving six years as Helen Thomson’s chief of staff when Thomson was in the Assembly.
This leads to the question–why did Wolk want such pivotal legislation to be sunsetted? It also leads one to question her commitment to health care expressed on Saturday at the event. Wolk is going to run for the State Senate and may have Democratic opposition in the form of John Garamendi, Jr.
Should the county hold off on the library tax?
The school district will have most likely two parcel tax measures on the ballot this coming November. Is it wise for the county to have a third one, in the library tax?
This is not a question of supporting libraries–I support libraries and I support taxation to fund the public libraries more fully. This is a question of timing. Having three tax measures on the ballot is poor timing. The school district must renew their parcel tax.
According to the Enterprise the tax would go from $42 to $88–more than doubling the current tax. The tax is certainly needed, the question is when can it pass.
The Davis Enterprise reported yesterday that Katy Curl, Yolo County’s new library director said that there may be no more time to delay:
“But now the fund the library has been using (to replace the amount from the state) is empty,” she said. And even though the county has delayed putting the measure on the ballot, there may be no more time to delay.
There may be no more time, but you also want to do all that you can to assure passage and since it is a tax, it requires a two-thirds vote. Realistically I do not see three tax measures getting two-thirds majorities on the same ballot. There is a February election and a June election, those would seem better times. We cannot risk the school parcel tax not passing and we cannot risk the library tax not spending. Someone has to do the wise thing and delay the election otherwise that may be a distinct possibility. Right now, it appears that the county has more flexibility than the school district.
—Doug Paul Davis reporting
Just for clarifications sake I’m pretty sure the library tax will be doubled, or at least that is what the Enterprise article implies. Here is a quote from the article:
Davis residents pay $42 a year to support the city’s branch of the Yolo County library system. The library needs the tax to be increased by about $46, Curl said.
So as I read it the tax goes from $42 to $88.
Like you I support both the schools and the library. But I also agree that the county is making a poor choice in putting this tax on the ballot at the same time as the school parcel taxes. Especially since the county is asking for such a big increase.
Just for clarifications sake I’m pretty sure the library tax will be doubled, or at least that is what the Enterprise article implies. Here is a quote from the article:
Davis residents pay $42 a year to support the city’s branch of the Yolo County library system. The library needs the tax to be increased by about $46, Curl said.
So as I read it the tax goes from $42 to $88.
Like you I support both the schools and the library. But I also agree that the county is making a poor choice in putting this tax on the ballot at the same time as the school parcel taxes. Especially since the county is asking for such a big increase.
Just for clarifications sake I’m pretty sure the library tax will be doubled, or at least that is what the Enterprise article implies. Here is a quote from the article:
Davis residents pay $42 a year to support the city’s branch of the Yolo County library system. The library needs the tax to be increased by about $46, Curl said.
So as I read it the tax goes from $42 to $88.
Like you I support both the schools and the library. But I also agree that the county is making a poor choice in putting this tax on the ballot at the same time as the school parcel taxes. Especially since the county is asking for such a big increase.
Just for clarifications sake I’m pretty sure the library tax will be doubled, or at least that is what the Enterprise article implies. Here is a quote from the article:
Davis residents pay $42 a year to support the city’s branch of the Yolo County library system. The library needs the tax to be increased by about $46, Curl said.
So as I read it the tax goes from $42 to $88.
Like you I support both the schools and the library. But I also agree that the county is making a poor choice in putting this tax on the ballot at the same time as the school parcel taxes. Especially since the county is asking for such a big increase.
Good catch.
Good catch.
Good catch.
Good catch.
Your blog entry mentioned that the Chavez Day event was a bit dismal. In the past Carlos Matos, former member and Chair of the HRC who started the Cesar Chavez Day celebration in Davis, waited until after farmer’s mkt. ended (2pm or so) to hold the event.
It was held under the awning and therefore provided protection from the sun. Also, there was seating set up so that people would have a place to sit.
I and other commissioners made the recommendation that we go back to this format after the last Chavez event, but like all other recommendations…out the door.
Maybe if enough citizens make the suggestion they will listen. Maybe.
Your blog entry mentioned that the Chavez Day event was a bit dismal. In the past Carlos Matos, former member and Chair of the HRC who started the Cesar Chavez Day celebration in Davis, waited until after farmer’s mkt. ended (2pm or so) to hold the event.
It was held under the awning and therefore provided protection from the sun. Also, there was seating set up so that people would have a place to sit.
I and other commissioners made the recommendation that we go back to this format after the last Chavez event, but like all other recommendations…out the door.
Maybe if enough citizens make the suggestion they will listen. Maybe.
Your blog entry mentioned that the Chavez Day event was a bit dismal. In the past Carlos Matos, former member and Chair of the HRC who started the Cesar Chavez Day celebration in Davis, waited until after farmer’s mkt. ended (2pm or so) to hold the event.
It was held under the awning and therefore provided protection from the sun. Also, there was seating set up so that people would have a place to sit.
I and other commissioners made the recommendation that we go back to this format after the last Chavez event, but like all other recommendations…out the door.
Maybe if enough citizens make the suggestion they will listen. Maybe.
Your blog entry mentioned that the Chavez Day event was a bit dismal. In the past Carlos Matos, former member and Chair of the HRC who started the Cesar Chavez Day celebration in Davis, waited until after farmer’s mkt. ended (2pm or so) to hold the event.
It was held under the awning and therefore provided protection from the sun. Also, there was seating set up so that people would have a place to sit.
I and other commissioners made the recommendation that we go back to this format after the last Chavez event, but like all other recommendations…out the door.
Maybe if enough citizens make the suggestion they will listen. Maybe.
a minor blogging style note –
when you make reference to news articles that are online, it would help if you linked to the original source, so that your readership could click through and read them ourselves. it takes a bit more time in the initial writing, but it helps understand how the issue has developed.
a minor blogging style note –
when you make reference to news articles that are online, it would help if you linked to the original source, so that your readership could click through and read them ourselves. it takes a bit more time in the initial writing, but it helps understand how the issue has developed.
a minor blogging style note –
when you make reference to news articles that are online, it would help if you linked to the original source, so that your readership could click through and read them ourselves. it takes a bit more time in the initial writing, but it helps understand how the issue has developed.
a minor blogging style note –
when you make reference to news articles that are online, it would help if you linked to the original source, so that your readership could click through and read them ourselves. it takes a bit more time in the initial writing, but it helps understand how the issue has developed.
“According to the Enterprise the tax would go from $42 to $88–more than doubling the current tax. The tax is certainly needed, the question is when can it pass.”
David,
What makes you assert so matter of factly that the tax increase “is certainly needed”? Have you studied the finances of the county library system? Are you aware of their revenues and expenditures?
I’m not suggesting that your conclusion is wrong. I just wonder how much you have really looked into this question.
Two years ago, when the idea of a library tax was first floated, I met with the county librarian and scoured over ten years of financial records (up to 2004) for the library.
I concluded at that time that yes, a tax increase was needed to maintain the library’s services. However, the proposal in 2005 was to raise the tax by $31, far more than was necessary to maintain the existing services of the Davis branch of the county library.
What happened not long after I investigated this matter was that the revenues to the county — and by extension to the county library system — increased dramatically. That happened largely because of the real estate inflation, which greatly increased property tax revenues to the county; and because the state’s economy, post-dotcom crash, had recovered, the state was absconding less VLF money from the counties.
Due to the large increase in revenues to the counties, which has not subsided, Yolo County realized that it no longer needed a tax increase to maintain services. They withdrew the idea of a tax increase.
Now they have returned with this idea, two years later. I have not since studied the expenses and revenues to the county, but I wonder what has changed so much from 12 months ago when the library itself said the tax increase was not necessary? Have they increased their benefits and salaries? And is that the reason for the need now?
And why is it that the increase in 2005 was to be $31, but now it is to be 50% higher than that?
“According to the Enterprise the tax would go from $42 to $88–more than doubling the current tax. The tax is certainly needed, the question is when can it pass.”
David,
What makes you assert so matter of factly that the tax increase “is certainly needed”? Have you studied the finances of the county library system? Are you aware of their revenues and expenditures?
I’m not suggesting that your conclusion is wrong. I just wonder how much you have really looked into this question.
Two years ago, when the idea of a library tax was first floated, I met with the county librarian and scoured over ten years of financial records (up to 2004) for the library.
I concluded at that time that yes, a tax increase was needed to maintain the library’s services. However, the proposal in 2005 was to raise the tax by $31, far more than was necessary to maintain the existing services of the Davis branch of the county library.
What happened not long after I investigated this matter was that the revenues to the county — and by extension to the county library system — increased dramatically. That happened largely because of the real estate inflation, which greatly increased property tax revenues to the county; and because the state’s economy, post-dotcom crash, had recovered, the state was absconding less VLF money from the counties.
Due to the large increase in revenues to the counties, which has not subsided, Yolo County realized that it no longer needed a tax increase to maintain services. They withdrew the idea of a tax increase.
Now they have returned with this idea, two years later. I have not since studied the expenses and revenues to the county, but I wonder what has changed so much from 12 months ago when the library itself said the tax increase was not necessary? Have they increased their benefits and salaries? And is that the reason for the need now?
And why is it that the increase in 2005 was to be $31, but now it is to be 50% higher than that?
“According to the Enterprise the tax would go from $42 to $88–more than doubling the current tax. The tax is certainly needed, the question is when can it pass.”
David,
What makes you assert so matter of factly that the tax increase “is certainly needed”? Have you studied the finances of the county library system? Are you aware of their revenues and expenditures?
I’m not suggesting that your conclusion is wrong. I just wonder how much you have really looked into this question.
Two years ago, when the idea of a library tax was first floated, I met with the county librarian and scoured over ten years of financial records (up to 2004) for the library.
I concluded at that time that yes, a tax increase was needed to maintain the library’s services. However, the proposal in 2005 was to raise the tax by $31, far more than was necessary to maintain the existing services of the Davis branch of the county library.
What happened not long after I investigated this matter was that the revenues to the county — and by extension to the county library system — increased dramatically. That happened largely because of the real estate inflation, which greatly increased property tax revenues to the county; and because the state’s economy, post-dotcom crash, had recovered, the state was absconding less VLF money from the counties.
Due to the large increase in revenues to the counties, which has not subsided, Yolo County realized that it no longer needed a tax increase to maintain services. They withdrew the idea of a tax increase.
Now they have returned with this idea, two years later. I have not since studied the expenses and revenues to the county, but I wonder what has changed so much from 12 months ago when the library itself said the tax increase was not necessary? Have they increased their benefits and salaries? And is that the reason for the need now?
And why is it that the increase in 2005 was to be $31, but now it is to be 50% higher than that?
“According to the Enterprise the tax would go from $42 to $88–more than doubling the current tax. The tax is certainly needed, the question is when can it pass.”
David,
What makes you assert so matter of factly that the tax increase “is certainly needed”? Have you studied the finances of the county library system? Are you aware of their revenues and expenditures?
I’m not suggesting that your conclusion is wrong. I just wonder how much you have really looked into this question.
Two years ago, when the idea of a library tax was first floated, I met with the county librarian and scoured over ten years of financial records (up to 2004) for the library.
I concluded at that time that yes, a tax increase was needed to maintain the library’s services. However, the proposal in 2005 was to raise the tax by $31, far more than was necessary to maintain the existing services of the Davis branch of the county library.
What happened not long after I investigated this matter was that the revenues to the county — and by extension to the county library system — increased dramatically. That happened largely because of the real estate inflation, which greatly increased property tax revenues to the county; and because the state’s economy, post-dotcom crash, had recovered, the state was absconding less VLF money from the counties.
Due to the large increase in revenues to the counties, which has not subsided, Yolo County realized that it no longer needed a tax increase to maintain services. They withdrew the idea of a tax increase.
Now they have returned with this idea, two years later. I have not since studied the expenses and revenues to the county, but I wonder what has changed so much from 12 months ago when the library itself said the tax increase was not necessary? Have they increased their benefits and salaries? And is that the reason for the need now?
And why is it that the increase in 2005 was to be $31, but now it is to be 50% higher than that?
Once again, as The Enterprise article points out, most of the revenues from this proposed increase of the library tax will be to fund new or improved services, not to maintain what we already have.
Once again, as The Enterprise article points out, most of the revenues from this proposed increase of the library tax will be to fund new or improved services, not to maintain what we already have.
Once again, as The Enterprise article points out, most of the revenues from this proposed increase of the library tax will be to fund new or improved services, not to maintain what we already have.
Once again, as The Enterprise article points out, most of the revenues from this proposed increase of the library tax will be to fund new or improved services, not to maintain what we already have.
It is increasing apparent that the school board’s decision to close Valley Oak Elementary and try for a Valley Oak Elementary separate tax measure is poorly thought out and poorly timed. The prudent course would be to find the money for Valley Oak Elementary in the budget for the near future, see what the enrollment is in November, create a city-wide plan , look at all the options and consider the closing, if necessary, during the next election cycle for the DUSD school board. The School Board majority needs to swallow its pride and reconsider their decision.
It is increasing apparent that the school board’s decision to close Valley Oak Elementary and try for a Valley Oak Elementary separate tax measure is poorly thought out and poorly timed. The prudent course would be to find the money for Valley Oak Elementary in the budget for the near future, see what the enrollment is in November, create a city-wide plan , look at all the options and consider the closing, if necessary, during the next election cycle for the DUSD school board. The School Board majority needs to swallow its pride and reconsider their decision.
It is increasing apparent that the school board’s decision to close Valley Oak Elementary and try for a Valley Oak Elementary separate tax measure is poorly thought out and poorly timed. The prudent course would be to find the money for Valley Oak Elementary in the budget for the near future, see what the enrollment is in November, create a city-wide plan , look at all the options and consider the closing, if necessary, during the next election cycle for the DUSD school board. The School Board majority needs to swallow its pride and reconsider their decision.
It is increasing apparent that the school board’s decision to close Valley Oak Elementary and try for a Valley Oak Elementary separate tax measure is poorly thought out and poorly timed. The prudent course would be to find the money for Valley Oak Elementary in the budget for the near future, see what the enrollment is in November, create a city-wide plan , look at all the options and consider the closing, if necessary, during the next election cycle for the DUSD school board. The School Board majority needs to swallow its pride and reconsider their decision.
I would have to see what the money would be used for to vote for a doubling of the library tax.
What new services? Will a library in South Davis be opened? Will the Library in West Sacramento be upgraded? (Has anyone visited that place? It really needs some help.) What are the true needs?
I would have to see what the money would be used for to vote for a doubling of the library tax.
What new services? Will a library in South Davis be opened? Will the Library in West Sacramento be upgraded? (Has anyone visited that place? It really needs some help.) What are the true needs?
I would have to see what the money would be used for to vote for a doubling of the library tax.
What new services? Will a library in South Davis be opened? Will the Library in West Sacramento be upgraded? (Has anyone visited that place? It really needs some help.) What are the true needs?
I would have to see what the money would be used for to vote for a doubling of the library tax.
What new services? Will a library in South Davis be opened? Will the Library in West Sacramento be upgraded? (Has anyone visited that place? It really needs some help.) What are the true needs?
You seem to be blaming the new Human Rights Commission for the minimal Cesar Chavez Day turnout. I do not think 70 degrees would prevent anyone passionate about a topic from showing up. The march was truly sad, I had friends visiting from out of town, and have no doubt that I will be hearing about the “20 Man March” for a long time.
You seem to be blaming the new Human Rights Commission for the minimal Cesar Chavez Day turnout. I do not think 70 degrees would prevent anyone passionate about a topic from showing up. The march was truly sad, I had friends visiting from out of town, and have no doubt that I will be hearing about the “20 Man March” for a long time.
You seem to be blaming the new Human Rights Commission for the minimal Cesar Chavez Day turnout. I do not think 70 degrees would prevent anyone passionate about a topic from showing up. The march was truly sad, I had friends visiting from out of town, and have no doubt that I will be hearing about the “20 Man March” for a long time.
You seem to be blaming the new Human Rights Commission for the minimal Cesar Chavez Day turnout. I do not think 70 degrees would prevent anyone passionate about a topic from showing up. The march was truly sad, I had friends visiting from out of town, and have no doubt that I will be hearing about the “20 Man March” for a long time.
The most diverse group in Davis was disbanded in a very public manner and replaced by a nearly all-white HRC, that probably has nothing to do with it. And the reason they were disbanded probably didn’t have anything to do with it either. Several people asked me on Saturday where the minorities were…
The most diverse group in Davis was disbanded in a very public manner and replaced by a nearly all-white HRC, that probably has nothing to do with it. And the reason they were disbanded probably didn’t have anything to do with it either. Several people asked me on Saturday where the minorities were…
The most diverse group in Davis was disbanded in a very public manner and replaced by a nearly all-white HRC, that probably has nothing to do with it. And the reason they were disbanded probably didn’t have anything to do with it either. Several people asked me on Saturday where the minorities were…
The most diverse group in Davis was disbanded in a very public manner and replaced by a nearly all-white HRC, that probably has nothing to do with it. And the reason they were disbanded probably didn’t have anything to do with it either. Several people asked me on Saturday where the minorities were…
“Will a library in South Davis be opened?”
No. Even if this much higher tax is passed, no library will be built in South Davis. However, they seem to have taken up my suggestion — made to the Yolo County librarian in 2005 — that they could open a satellite library at Montgomery Elementary or even in a privately owned building, where library patrons could go to request books, to pick up books that were requested and to return books. That would be a convenience for So. Davis people, not having to drive over to 14th Street for such things. They could also have some internet facilities, along with a computerized search catalog.
“Will the Library in West Sacramento be upgraded? (Has anyone visited that place? It really needs some help.)”
No. This would be a Davis tax, and it would only benefit the Davis branch of the Y.C. Library. If the people of West Sac want a better facility, they’ll have to fund that themselves. (I’ve been to the West Sac branch, and it is not bad. It is very, very small, compared to the Davis library. But there is nothing offensive or perilous about it.)
“Will a library in South Davis be opened?”
No. Even if this much higher tax is passed, no library will be built in South Davis. However, they seem to have taken up my suggestion — made to the Yolo County librarian in 2005 — that they could open a satellite library at Montgomery Elementary or even in a privately owned building, where library patrons could go to request books, to pick up books that were requested and to return books. That would be a convenience for So. Davis people, not having to drive over to 14th Street for such things. They could also have some internet facilities, along with a computerized search catalog.
“Will the Library in West Sacramento be upgraded? (Has anyone visited that place? It really needs some help.)”
No. This would be a Davis tax, and it would only benefit the Davis branch of the Y.C. Library. If the people of West Sac want a better facility, they’ll have to fund that themselves. (I’ve been to the West Sac branch, and it is not bad. It is very, very small, compared to the Davis library. But there is nothing offensive or perilous about it.)
“Will a library in South Davis be opened?”
No. Even if this much higher tax is passed, no library will be built in South Davis. However, they seem to have taken up my suggestion — made to the Yolo County librarian in 2005 — that they could open a satellite library at Montgomery Elementary or even in a privately owned building, where library patrons could go to request books, to pick up books that were requested and to return books. That would be a convenience for So. Davis people, not having to drive over to 14th Street for such things. They could also have some internet facilities, along with a computerized search catalog.
“Will the Library in West Sacramento be upgraded? (Has anyone visited that place? It really needs some help.)”
No. This would be a Davis tax, and it would only benefit the Davis branch of the Y.C. Library. If the people of West Sac want a better facility, they’ll have to fund that themselves. (I’ve been to the West Sac branch, and it is not bad. It is very, very small, compared to the Davis library. But there is nothing offensive or perilous about it.)
“Will a library in South Davis be opened?”
No. Even if this much higher tax is passed, no library will be built in South Davis. However, they seem to have taken up my suggestion — made to the Yolo County librarian in 2005 — that they could open a satellite library at Montgomery Elementary or even in a privately owned building, where library patrons could go to request books, to pick up books that were requested and to return books. That would be a convenience for So. Davis people, not having to drive over to 14th Street for such things. They could also have some internet facilities, along with a computerized search catalog.
“Will the Library in West Sacramento be upgraded? (Has anyone visited that place? It really needs some help.)”
No. This would be a Davis tax, and it would only benefit the Davis branch of the Y.C. Library. If the people of West Sac want a better facility, they’ll have to fund that themselves. (I’ve been to the West Sac branch, and it is not bad. It is very, very small, compared to the Davis library. But there is nothing offensive or perilous about it.)
I went to a presentation by the Yolo County Court that highlighted the reorganization of the Court and the new website at the West Sacramento Library. Unfortunately, there was no way to access the Internet during the presentation so other than show screen shots of the new website the presentation was limited.
The library was very small and out of the way right off of a very busy street. I couldn’t see sending a child to the library alone in that location. When I said it needed help, I did mean to imply that it was offensive. Inobtrusive would be a better description.
I went to a presentation by the Yolo County Court that highlighted the reorganization of the Court and the new website at the West Sacramento Library. Unfortunately, there was no way to access the Internet during the presentation so other than show screen shots of the new website the presentation was limited.
The library was very small and out of the way right off of a very busy street. I couldn’t see sending a child to the library alone in that location. When I said it needed help, I did mean to imply that it was offensive. Inobtrusive would be a better description.
I went to a presentation by the Yolo County Court that highlighted the reorganization of the Court and the new website at the West Sacramento Library. Unfortunately, there was no way to access the Internet during the presentation so other than show screen shots of the new website the presentation was limited.
The library was very small and out of the way right off of a very busy street. I couldn’t see sending a child to the library alone in that location. When I said it needed help, I did mean to imply that it was offensive. Inobtrusive would be a better description.
I went to a presentation by the Yolo County Court that highlighted the reorganization of the Court and the new website at the West Sacramento Library. Unfortunately, there was no way to access the Internet during the presentation so other than show screen shots of the new website the presentation was limited.
The library was very small and out of the way right off of a very busy street. I couldn’t see sending a child to the library alone in that location. When I said it needed help, I did mean to imply that it was offensive. Inobtrusive would be a better description.
Like the post purge human relations commission that produced it the Chavez day scene in central park was an event devoid of a soul. I looked for my friends and they were few and far between. Still I guess this is what Davis wants, to support Ceasar Chavez now that he is dead but not the farm workers who continue to struggle. Just like Davis wants to protect owls in Mexico but not in Mace Ranch or to Celebrate Dr.King day while promoting exclusionary no growth policies or annex the new UC Davis housing while keeping the students who live on campus gerrymandered out of voting in city elections. Davis is a town of stark hypocracies and the Chavez day event is a perfect metaphor for these contrasts of seeming to be progressive while in reality being reactionary.
Like the post purge human relations commission that produced it the Chavez day scene in central park was an event devoid of a soul. I looked for my friends and they were few and far between. Still I guess this is what Davis wants, to support Ceasar Chavez now that he is dead but not the farm workers who continue to struggle. Just like Davis wants to protect owls in Mexico but not in Mace Ranch or to Celebrate Dr.King day while promoting exclusionary no growth policies or annex the new UC Davis housing while keeping the students who live on campus gerrymandered out of voting in city elections. Davis is a town of stark hypocracies and the Chavez day event is a perfect metaphor for these contrasts of seeming to be progressive while in reality being reactionary.
Like the post purge human relations commission that produced it the Chavez day scene in central park was an event devoid of a soul. I looked for my friends and they were few and far between. Still I guess this is what Davis wants, to support Ceasar Chavez now that he is dead but not the farm workers who continue to struggle. Just like Davis wants to protect owls in Mexico but not in Mace Ranch or to Celebrate Dr.King day while promoting exclusionary no growth policies or annex the new UC Davis housing while keeping the students who live on campus gerrymandered out of voting in city elections. Davis is a town of stark hypocracies and the Chavez day event is a perfect metaphor for these contrasts of seeming to be progressive while in reality being reactionary.
Like the post purge human relations commission that produced it the Chavez day scene in central park was an event devoid of a soul. I looked for my friends and they were few and far between. Still I guess this is what Davis wants, to support Ceasar Chavez now that he is dead but not the farm workers who continue to struggle. Just like Davis wants to protect owls in Mexico but not in Mace Ranch or to Celebrate Dr.King day while promoting exclusionary no growth policies or annex the new UC Davis housing while keeping the students who live on campus gerrymandered out of voting in city elections. Davis is a town of stark hypocracies and the Chavez day event is a perfect metaphor for these contrasts of seeming to be progressive while in reality being reactionary.
I disagree about what a sparse turnout means for the Cesar Chavez Day event anywhere. One might consider that there are many people in this town who support what Cesar stood for. One might also start asking what events like these hope to accomplish. What tangible results come from them? What would Cesar say if he were to come back and view all the marches not tied to some kind of direct action? Maybe many of the folks who normally turn out for the rally and march here in Davis went to the one in Sacramento or elsewhere.
I never met him, but his legacy is bigger than he was in real life (if that is possible). He was an organizer and I can imagine him giving a shrug and say something like, “How come we’re not using the opportunity presented by this assembled crowd to march on some county office and demand improvements in county services for farm workers?”
I have similar concerns about all the anti-war marches and vigils, etc. Don’t get me wrong, I go to these things out of concern for others’ psychological well being and my own desire to be counted. But four years into this evil invasion and occupation the crowds are not getting larger. What is starting to make the difference is people talking to each other and making direct contact with legislators and becoming a constant and unrelenting nuisance to those in power.
Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves and was a great President. Some of us still have his birthday off as a paid holiday. He continues to be an important part of our national identity and history and is still seriously regarded. Yet, how many people rally and march on his birthday? I wouldn’t fret over Cesar’s legacy as it is strong and will grow over time.
I disagree about what a sparse turnout means for the Cesar Chavez Day event anywhere. One might consider that there are many people in this town who support what Cesar stood for. One might also start asking what events like these hope to accomplish. What tangible results come from them? What would Cesar say if he were to come back and view all the marches not tied to some kind of direct action? Maybe many of the folks who normally turn out for the rally and march here in Davis went to the one in Sacramento or elsewhere.
I never met him, but his legacy is bigger than he was in real life (if that is possible). He was an organizer and I can imagine him giving a shrug and say something like, “How come we’re not using the opportunity presented by this assembled crowd to march on some county office and demand improvements in county services for farm workers?”
I have similar concerns about all the anti-war marches and vigils, etc. Don’t get me wrong, I go to these things out of concern for others’ psychological well being and my own desire to be counted. But four years into this evil invasion and occupation the crowds are not getting larger. What is starting to make the difference is people talking to each other and making direct contact with legislators and becoming a constant and unrelenting nuisance to those in power.
Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves and was a great President. Some of us still have his birthday off as a paid holiday. He continues to be an important part of our national identity and history and is still seriously regarded. Yet, how many people rally and march on his birthday? I wouldn’t fret over Cesar’s legacy as it is strong and will grow over time.
I disagree about what a sparse turnout means for the Cesar Chavez Day event anywhere. One might consider that there are many people in this town who support what Cesar stood for. One might also start asking what events like these hope to accomplish. What tangible results come from them? What would Cesar say if he were to come back and view all the marches not tied to some kind of direct action? Maybe many of the folks who normally turn out for the rally and march here in Davis went to the one in Sacramento or elsewhere.
I never met him, but his legacy is bigger than he was in real life (if that is possible). He was an organizer and I can imagine him giving a shrug and say something like, “How come we’re not using the opportunity presented by this assembled crowd to march on some county office and demand improvements in county services for farm workers?”
I have similar concerns about all the anti-war marches and vigils, etc. Don’t get me wrong, I go to these things out of concern for others’ psychological well being and my own desire to be counted. But four years into this evil invasion and occupation the crowds are not getting larger. What is starting to make the difference is people talking to each other and making direct contact with legislators and becoming a constant and unrelenting nuisance to those in power.
Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves and was a great President. Some of us still have his birthday off as a paid holiday. He continues to be an important part of our national identity and history and is still seriously regarded. Yet, how many people rally and march on his birthday? I wouldn’t fret over Cesar’s legacy as it is strong and will grow over time.
I disagree about what a sparse turnout means for the Cesar Chavez Day event anywhere. One might consider that there are many people in this town who support what Cesar stood for. One might also start asking what events like these hope to accomplish. What tangible results come from them? What would Cesar say if he were to come back and view all the marches not tied to some kind of direct action? Maybe many of the folks who normally turn out for the rally and march here in Davis went to the one in Sacramento or elsewhere.
I never met him, but his legacy is bigger than he was in real life (if that is possible). He was an organizer and I can imagine him giving a shrug and say something like, “How come we’re not using the opportunity presented by this assembled crowd to march on some county office and demand improvements in county services for farm workers?”
I have similar concerns about all the anti-war marches and vigils, etc. Don’t get me wrong, I go to these things out of concern for others’ psychological well being and my own desire to be counted. But four years into this evil invasion and occupation the crowds are not getting larger. What is starting to make the difference is people talking to each other and making direct contact with legislators and becoming a constant and unrelenting nuisance to those in power.
Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves and was a great President. Some of us still have his birthday off as a paid holiday. He continues to be an important part of our national identity and history and is still seriously regarded. Yet, how many people rally and march on his birthday? I wouldn’t fret over Cesar’s legacy as it is strong and will grow over time.
“But four years into this evil invasion and occupation the crowds are not getting larger. What is starting to make the difference is people talking to each other and making direct contact with legislators and becoming a constant and unrelenting nuisance to those in power.”
My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on pulbic opinion. Rather, the American people have turned against the presence of our military in Iraq because A) it is an extremely expensive endeavor in money, material and to a lesser extent American lives and B) there is seemingly no benefit to be won by all of that expense and C) nothing has improved in our situation there in 3 years and no positive outcome or even neutral endpoint can be seen by anyone. In other words, most people now see the war for the quagmire that it is.
“But four years into this evil invasion and occupation the crowds are not getting larger. What is starting to make the difference is people talking to each other and making direct contact with legislators and becoming a constant and unrelenting nuisance to those in power.”
My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on pulbic opinion. Rather, the American people have turned against the presence of our military in Iraq because A) it is an extremely expensive endeavor in money, material and to a lesser extent American lives and B) there is seemingly no benefit to be won by all of that expense and C) nothing has improved in our situation there in 3 years and no positive outcome or even neutral endpoint can be seen by anyone. In other words, most people now see the war for the quagmire that it is.
“But four years into this evil invasion and occupation the crowds are not getting larger. What is starting to make the difference is people talking to each other and making direct contact with legislators and becoming a constant and unrelenting nuisance to those in power.”
My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on pulbic opinion. Rather, the American people have turned against the presence of our military in Iraq because A) it is an extremely expensive endeavor in money, material and to a lesser extent American lives and B) there is seemingly no benefit to be won by all of that expense and C) nothing has improved in our situation there in 3 years and no positive outcome or even neutral endpoint can be seen by anyone. In other words, most people now see the war for the quagmire that it is.
“But four years into this evil invasion and occupation the crowds are not getting larger. What is starting to make the difference is people talking to each other and making direct contact with legislators and becoming a constant and unrelenting nuisance to those in power.”
My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on pulbic opinion. Rather, the American people have turned against the presence of our military in Iraq because A) it is an extremely expensive endeavor in money, material and to a lesser extent American lives and B) there is seemingly no benefit to be won by all of that expense and C) nothing has improved in our situation there in 3 years and no positive outcome or even neutral endpoint can be seen by anyone. In other words, most people now see the war for the quagmire that it is.
My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on *public opinion.
My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on *public opinion.
My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on *public opinion.
My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on *public opinion.
Mr. Rifkin,
The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.
Public opinion evolved from massive protests in February, 2003 to–as the Iraq War became ever harder to justify–the election of Democratic majorities in the House of Representatives and Senate. Which are evolving in their collective thinking toward legislating more and more constraints on Bush’s ability to wage the war–as the Constitution provides.
Mr. Rifkin,
The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.
Public opinion evolved from massive protests in February, 2003 to–as the Iraq War became ever harder to justify–the election of Democratic majorities in the House of Representatives and Senate. Which are evolving in their collective thinking toward legislating more and more constraints on Bush’s ability to wage the war–as the Constitution provides.
Mr. Rifkin,
The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.
Public opinion evolved from massive protests in February, 2003 to–as the Iraq War became ever harder to justify–the election of Democratic majorities in the House of Representatives and Senate. Which are evolving in their collective thinking toward legislating more and more constraints on Bush’s ability to wage the war–as the Constitution provides.
Mr. Rifkin,
The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.
Public opinion evolved from massive protests in February, 2003 to–as the Iraq War became ever harder to justify–the election of Democratic majorities in the House of Representatives and Senate. Which are evolving in their collective thinking toward legislating more and more constraints on Bush’s ability to wage the war–as the Constitution provides.
“The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.”
I don’t think so. I think they were expressions of opinion of the people marching. However, as someone else pointed out, the marches today (when opposition to the Iraq policy is at its highest) are no larger than they were 3-4 years ago (when a majority of Americans still supported the president’s strategy).
I fully support the free expression of ideas and passions. That is just what the marchers are doing — expressing their beliefs. I simply don’t believe that their expressions have turned the tide on the opinion of the public at large. Rather, that changed for the reasons I point out above.
“The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.”
I don’t think so. I think they were expressions of opinion of the people marching. However, as someone else pointed out, the marches today (when opposition to the Iraq policy is at its highest) are no larger than they were 3-4 years ago (when a majority of Americans still supported the president’s strategy).
I fully support the free expression of ideas and passions. That is just what the marchers are doing — expressing their beliefs. I simply don’t believe that their expressions have turned the tide on the opinion of the public at large. Rather, that changed for the reasons I point out above.
“The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.”
I don’t think so. I think they were expressions of opinion of the people marching. However, as someone else pointed out, the marches today (when opposition to the Iraq policy is at its highest) are no larger than they were 3-4 years ago (when a majority of Americans still supported the president’s strategy).
I fully support the free expression of ideas and passions. That is just what the marchers are doing — expressing their beliefs. I simply don’t believe that their expressions have turned the tide on the opinion of the public at large. Rather, that changed for the reasons I point out above.
“The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.”
I don’t think so. I think they were expressions of opinion of the people marching. However, as someone else pointed out, the marches today (when opposition to the Iraq policy is at its highest) are no larger than they were 3-4 years ago (when a majority of Americans still supported the president’s strategy).
I fully support the free expression of ideas and passions. That is just what the marchers are doing — expressing their beliefs. I simply don’t believe that their expressions have turned the tide on the opinion of the public at large. Rather, that changed for the reasons I point out above.
Mr. Rifkin wrote:
“My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on pulbic opinion. Rather, the American people have turned against the presence of our military in Iraq because A) it is an extremely expensive endeavor in money, material and to a lesser extent American lives…”
I wrote,
“The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.”
Mr. Rifkin replied,
I don’t think so. I think they were expressions of opinion of the people marching.
Regarding the ongoing exchange above, I would just ask, were not the people marching members of the public? Well, of course they are, unless, like Mr. Rifkin, you wish to marginalize them, presumably for choosing a “politically incorrect” medium–the streets–in which to express their opinions.
However, sympathy with the protests against the war on the part of millions more members of the public who did not march evolved into the election of Democratic majorities in both houses of Congress.
I don’t see how these two expressions of opinion against the war can be disconnected from each other. One didn’t cause the other, they are simply different expressions of the same opinion against the war by different segments of the same public.
Mr. Rifkin wrote:
“My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on pulbic opinion. Rather, the American people have turned against the presence of our military in Iraq because A) it is an extremely expensive endeavor in money, material and to a lesser extent American lives…”
I wrote,
“The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.”
Mr. Rifkin replied,
I don’t think so. I think they were expressions of opinion of the people marching.
Regarding the ongoing exchange above, I would just ask, were not the people marching members of the public? Well, of course they are, unless, like Mr. Rifkin, you wish to marginalize them, presumably for choosing a “politically incorrect” medium–the streets–in which to express their opinions.
However, sympathy with the protests against the war on the part of millions more members of the public who did not march evolved into the election of Democratic majorities in both houses of Congress.
I don’t see how these two expressions of opinion against the war can be disconnected from each other. One didn’t cause the other, they are simply different expressions of the same opinion against the war by different segments of the same public.
Mr. Rifkin wrote:
“My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on pulbic opinion. Rather, the American people have turned against the presence of our military in Iraq because A) it is an extremely expensive endeavor in money, material and to a lesser extent American lives…”
I wrote,
“The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.”
Mr. Rifkin replied,
I don’t think so. I think they were expressions of opinion of the people marching.
Regarding the ongoing exchange above, I would just ask, were not the people marching members of the public? Well, of course they are, unless, like Mr. Rifkin, you wish to marginalize them, presumably for choosing a “politically incorrect” medium–the streets–in which to express their opinions.
However, sympathy with the protests against the war on the part of millions more members of the public who did not march evolved into the election of Democratic majorities in both houses of Congress.
I don’t see how these two expressions of opinion against the war can be disconnected from each other. One didn’t cause the other, they are simply different expressions of the same opinion against the war by different segments of the same public.
Mr. Rifkin wrote:
“My view is that protest marches have had no effect whatsoever on pulbic opinion. Rather, the American people have turned against the presence of our military in Iraq because A) it is an extremely expensive endeavor in money, material and to a lesser extent American lives…”
I wrote,
“The point is the protests were an expression of public opinion.”
Mr. Rifkin replied,
I don’t think so. I think they were expressions of opinion of the people marching.
Regarding the ongoing exchange above, I would just ask, were not the people marching members of the public? Well, of course they are, unless, like Mr. Rifkin, you wish to marginalize them, presumably for choosing a “politically incorrect” medium–the streets–in which to express their opinions.
However, sympathy with the protests against the war on the part of millions more members of the public who did not march evolved into the election of Democratic majorities in both houses of Congress.
I don’t see how these two expressions of opinion against the war can be disconnected from each other. One didn’t cause the other, they are simply different expressions of the same opinion against the war by different segments of the same public.