Comparing our politics in the United States to those of a country, say, like Uganda, we think how fortunate we are. Many protestors against the planned pipeline to be built by TotalEnergy, a French based company, that would uproot hundreds of farmers in Uganda have been arrested and imprisoned. It goes without saying that money paid to persons in high places are a major factor.
However, now we read that a duly elected legislator in Montana has been silenced by GOP legislators. Zooey Zephyr, a transgender legislator, is now barred from the House floor because she objected to the GOP sponsored anti-trans bill by saying that those who voted for the bill would have blood on their hands.
Granted, she’s not in prison or tortured as dissenters are in Uganda, but we must wonder why one cannot dissent or argue as an elected legislator in the legislature. Isn’t that what democracy is all about? As dissenters are squeezed by a vise and prohibited from speakng, discussion of legislation becomes moot. Isn’t that what led to revolution in the eighteenth century?
Prayer for the Day
God beyond all comprehension, pour out your mercy on us,
Opening our eyes blind to the world around us;
God of infinite compassion, pour out your Spirit on us,
Opening our ears deaf to the cry of the marginalized by fear.
Make your Holy Spirit a window to those who need our love,
Breathing your power and your strength on us
In the name of him who shared your Spirit with us
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
If you use decorum to silence people who hold you accountable, then all you’re doing is using decorum as a tool of oppression.
- Zooey Zephyr, when finally allowed to speak before being banned
When the leaders choose to make themselves bidders at an auction of popularity, their talents, in the construction of the state, will be of no service. They become flatterers instead of legislators, the instruments, not the guides of the people.
- Edmund Burke, Member of Parliament (1729-1797)
I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me, hear my words.
Wondrously show your steadfast love, O savior of those who seek refuge
From their adversaries at your right hand.
Psalm 17: 6-7