Blog Stage III: Commentary or Criticism #1

Hi all, in this post I will be referencing an essay written in the Texas Observer.
This essay is written by the Observer's founding Editor, Ronnie Dugger, who is a highly acclaimed author and journalist.  In this essay he is speaking to the people of Texas, (namely the liberal democrats) and addresses that now is a more critical time than ever to "fight for democracy".  He makes a good point that because Democrats have been out of power in Texas for so long, it seems they have given up in their political drive.  This is unfortunate because all of the history-changing Democrats that have risen in Texas have started from the bottom--precinct organizing at the neighborhood level, which seems to be a forgotten concept.  Dugger argues it is imperative that the liberal Democratic recognize their roles and stand their ground in order to maintain the health care system, fight racism, raise minimum wage, and oppose the many other agendas that politicians like Trump have.  I agree with all the points Dugger makes, especially being a member of a generation that takes little political action.  We are highly affected by policies that are made by people whose views and interests differ greatly from ours, yet we persist to let it happen.  We are extremely capable of impacting our government, but our inaction doesn't allow us to do so.  In order to accomplish anything, it all begins with the individual.  As American's we have to realize the fate of the country rest's in our hands, even if the efforts seem futile at times.

Blog Stage II: Article Introduction and Colleague's Blogs

Hello all!  I'll be referring to this news article, "Hundreds Fill Texas Capitol to Oppose Anti-Sanctuary Cities Bill".

This article refers to the resistance meeting recent anti-immigration legislation, Senate Bill Number 4, being pushed by Governor Abbot and Texas Republicans.  The bill would ban the existence of sanctuary cities (cities that have adopted policies to protect unauthorized immigrants by not prosecuting them, and ensuring they have access to city services) state-wide.  This bill would be enforced by cutting grant funding to any district that doesn't fully comply with immigration jails, and would also combine local law enforcement with federal immigration agents.  As one can imagine the bill raises much distress especially for immigrant families who will be torn apart, as well as any citizen who fears living in a state that supports discriminatory policies.  Over 1,000 people gathered at the State Capital to protest this bill, but despite their efforts the Senate State Affairs committee passed the bill on to the full Senate for further review and possible approval.