Friday, September 19, 2008

On Poverty and Desperation

Much ado has apparently been made of Barack Obama's half-brother George, who lives a private life in Kenya, his privacy recently invaded by the UK Telegraph and subsequently by conservative commentators.

The story has been refuted, by George himself and others.

It offends me that this story is circulated. It does nothing to contribute to civil discourse or promote real consideration of what it means to care for the poor. It distracts us from the real issues (Biden was speaking of eliminating Bush tax cuts for the richest 3% and employing tax cuts for the middle class, a sound response to a flagging economy). It appeals to emotion to encourage the middle and working classes to vote against their interests.

On a personal level, I wonder who will make my daughter feel guilty that she does not financially support her extended family in Ethiopia?

So much for family matters remaining private.

3 comments:

Dawn said...

I admire your ability to stay in a discussion with civility and careful thought especially because I don't have that ability!

Erin said...

I think I'm rethinking this some ;)

Also the Obama tax plan as being in the best interest of the middle class is debatable ;)

Thirdly, Dawn is right. I've got much to learn from you in regards to my own civility :)

abebech said...

Also the Obama tax plan as being in the best interest of the middle class is debatable ;)

You are TOTALLY right -- that's the debate we should be having!