Observations on the occasion of the 11th Congressional Civil Rights Pilgrimage organized by the Faith and Politics Institute and led by Congressman John Lewis from March 4 to March 6, 2011
Fellow Pilgrims,
A lot is happening in our country and the world as we retrace the steps of recent history. When John Lewis and Hosea Williams placed their feet on the Selma side of the bridge that day heading east toward Montgomery they had little idea of their odyssey’s ultimate significance for the South, the nation and the world.
We are witnessing the triumph of the philosophy and tactics of nonviolent direct action worldwide. Al Qaeda terrorist are hanging their heads for the carnage wrought by their nihilistic violence. A simple Tunisian vegetable vendor tired of being disrespected and mistreated by his autocratic government and its police sparked an unstoppable grassroots thrust toward democracy. It is toppling entrenched ruling classes and dictators right and left, leaving heretofore-untouchable power élites checking flight schedules.
As Congressmen and Senators and opinion makers bond together during this long weekend, let’s think and pray about Wisconsin and the rights of working people, the elimination of hate and violent rhetoric from political discourse, and the spread of democracy and humanity world wide.
It took a lot of faith for John and Hosea to take that first step and it takes a lot of faith to do good politics these days.
Bob Zellner March 1, 2011
The struggle continues. From Madison to Tripoli workers are under attack. Fight back!
ReplyDeleteBIRMINGHAM IS STANDING UP FOR WORKERS!
ReplyDeleteThe Central Alabama Labor Council, AFL-CIO is sponsoring a Rally in Birmingham Monday, April 4 starting at 5pm in Lynn Park, between the County Courthouse and City Hall. Let's make some noise and let the reactionaries in Montgomery and Washington know that the Labor Movement is not dead, regardless of their wishes. Now it's our turn and in our town. Come on and join us Bob and let's make some noise!