Living Forever

Newtadinejad...

2011-12-16T06:19:00.002Z

Some may have noticed the recent comments by former Speaker of the House and current Presidential candidate Newt Gingrich, and others may even be familiar with my comments that are more commonsensical than original, which largely derive from a conversation with a friend and colleague.

Whilst being interviewed by the Jewish Channel (audience...) Newt made the following "historical analysis" about the Palestinian people:

“Remember, there was no Palestine as a state. It was part of the Ottoman Empire. We have invented the Palestinian people, who are in fact Arabs and are historically part of the Arab people, and they had the chance to go many places,”

"Invented" is, of course, the keyword that has been emphasized by all and sundry who have been lambasting the Speaker for his routine spouting of tabloid fodder. In his defense, he had the following to say at a recent debate:

“Is what I said factually correct? Yes. Is it historically true? Yes... We are in a situation where every day, rockets are fired into Israel while the United States – the current administration – tries to pressure the Israelis into a peace process.”

There are three observations I want to tease out here. One, that yes, he is right in the sense that any nationally identified group, can and are frequently invented, during disputes over land, etc... Well done Newt. In fact, one need look no further than the shores of this former British colony and see the rise of the American nationality, which is fiercely guarded by exploitative capitalism, nuclear weapons, fascist government, and racist othering. American revolutionaries and thinkers, suddenly during the course of the 1770s started calling themselves American and not British, thus "inventing" a national identity. Such claims to nationhood were enshrined by the US constitution, and exported to Europe (where nationalism was born in the 1700s) as part of the League of Nations and then the United Nations, where it still stands today as distinct human right.

It is clear, however, that Gingrich does not see Palestinian claims to statehood in same light as the "fore fathers" saw their claim. In fact, he holds a similar view to Obama: any expression of Palestinian statehood, now, would circumnavigate the current negotiation process (which Newt clearer sees as a fraud in itself). Which, in case you did not realize, is already marked by one party continuing to bulldoze homes and farmland for settlements and maintaining of of the largest "ghettos" since WWII, and where groups within both parties engage in terrorism against each others civilian population. It is clear with the copious amount of military and other aid sent to Israel that the US does more to maintain the status quo of Israeli superiority, which in turn reinforces the subjugation of the Palestinian people.

On a final and simultaneously tragic note, if Newt did become President next year it would be clear that instead of having two idiots who are representative of mental political elites in their countries there would be two. More walk-outs at the General Assembly!

For non-lame stream media coverage see the following documentary: Occupation 101.com and Democracynow.com

Global Gendercide: Discrimination and Domestic Violence against girls

2011-09-29T23:46:00.003+01:00

Betty Makoni, CEO and founder of Girl Child Network Worldwide, spoke on campus at UVU today. Frankly, as these things go I attend not knowing what to expect and am further weighed down by the deficit of inequality that spans our globe. Betty told her story as a young girl in Zimbabwe breaking out of the oppressive cycle of the structural violence of poverty and abusive patriarchy. Now she runs a global NGO that empowers girls from Africa to America to develop skills and dialogue that can likewise break them out of such cyclical existences.

The "invisible suffering" she described included young girls who are denied childhood through domestic violence, rape, and cultural taboos that lock them in marriage-slavery at a young age. When one speaks of gendercide this could not be further from an apt description. The intentional destruction and harming of an innocent group. There is no global systematic plan, but somehow males, husbands, fathers, whoever, engage in this activity across the planet. Indeed our education comes to nothing if we do not transform ourselves or our consciences.

See their website for more...
http://www.girlchildnetworkworldwide.org/

"the love of men shall wax cold"

2011-08-09T16:01:00.005+01:00

It is frustrating to learn of the riots and destruction that is ongoing in London from my uncomfortably peaceful home here in Utah. I have watched the videos read the "news" and Facebook comments all offering interpretation and opinion on the events surrounding the shooting of Mark Duggan and the subsequent breakdown of society.

The above phrase "the love of men shall wax cold" applies to this sad and desperate situation. We may conceive of this statement as a one-way, or even two-way street. However, I would propose that we think of it as a town square or market place, that encourages and even demands frequent interaction and exchange rather than occasional passing-by. Indeed we can see how the love of men, women and children has become icy in this part of the country.

If we consider society to be such a market place where the act of loving our brothers and sisters has the opportunity to grow or fade, this begins a helpful explanation as to why so much violence can be seen in the streets of Tottenham and alike. Rioters and looters are not "created" or "turned" into such within a vacuum. We do not, likewise, revile them in the instant of their committing such acts. There is a cleavage within British society to which Christian love hold the binds and Balm of Gilead. As much as these individuals and groups are labelled with destroying society, society has indeed nurtured such destruction.

There are of course concrete steps that can and should be taken to prevent and address such violence from continuing to occur. Police should have engaged in early dialogue with the community involved in the Duggan shooting and make steps to legitimize peaceful protest. The failures of ethnic targeting, such as Operation Trident, with police forces should be reformed. Public education against violence and the facilitation of proper training in disciplined nonviolent protest (both as part of the Cameron's "Big Society" initiative).

Christians are familiar with Jesus' admonition that "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends". It is time we lived in word and deed this type of love by loving those who would attempt to do harm and serving them instead of constructing new ways to ostracize them from society.

Syria: Children's Revolution

2011-07-10T22:33:00.003+01:00

Syria's flavor of "Arab Spring" has indeed been one of the most sustained and trying thus far. As far as nonviolent revolutions go there has most undeniably been great success, but the caveat should always be noted that mass actions, such as those coming out of dictatorial regimes, take time! The Children's Revolution, note the origins of protest to the torturing children who gratified anti-government slogans, needs popular support and solidarity to succeed.

Ingredients to successful campaigns nonviolence civil resistance should incorporate, but are not limited to, mass civilian participation, creation of civilian based cooperative institutions (such as information sharing and reporting), adherence to nonviolent strategy (be it planned or spontaneous), international support and solidarity, and above all patience.

So where do we in the West fit into this picture? Is this a foreign fight that is alien to us? One would hope that the struggle for freedom from oppressive government, the flourishing of democracy, and respect for human rights would appeal to us all. Participation in nonviolent resistance is not hindered by boundaries, but thrives in overcoming borders and building peace and justice wherever the oppressed may be. The unique trait to Arab Spring, particularly Syria, has been the use of You Tube and online social media in continuing the protest where security forces may temporarily extinguish it.

Join the revolution online and play a part in lasting change!

Khartoum: at it again

2011-06-15T02:42:00.003+01:00

You may have seen from the beginning of this year that Southern Sudan has legitimately won its independence from Khartoum. The regime in the North, currently led by Omar al-Bashir and an inner circle of Islamist nationalists, greeted the news with encouraging words of continued negotiation and promises of further peace after decades of war with the South.

You may also have seen that conflict has steadily escalated since the Spring, noting particularly the disagreement over borders and the possession oil producing areas in this central Sudanese region. The town of Abyei has been the focal point of this new chapter in Sudanese state sponsored violence.

It is at this point that we should not any longer allow this sort of flagrant abuse of human rights. Bashir, amongst other Khartoum officials are wanted by the International Criminal Court, and clearly have no desire for any kind of peace with the South. But a deeper and more disturbing pattern is present and should be observed. Since the current political movement has been seated in power in Khartoum the central government has armed, planned, and executed genocidal campaigns against those considered hostile to the state. The Nuba Mountain region saw widespread massacring of civilians, forced famine and bombing. This strategy of crushing civilian and sometimes armed opposition to Khartoum's abuse of power and funneling resources into the North was repeated during the decades long war with the South, in the western region of Darfur, and now again with the forced removal and killing of civilians in this central Abyei area. Most recently the bombs have been falling again- this a blatant trademark of Khartoum's strategic brutality.

If you were Sudanese what would you do? What would you ask of those of us on the "outside" in an increasingly globalized world?

Don't stand by, you wouldn't want others to do so if it was happening to your family, would you?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-13767146

Finally... guns on the streets

2011-04-11T21:45:00.003+01:00

Finally, something to say and the time to say it.

Whilst helping unload my family out of the car after running some morning errands I was confronted by a disturbing scene. In my wing mirror I could see four 10 to 12 year-olds walking down the street. Most were wearing hooded sweaters and one had on a black SWAT flak-jacket. All of them were holding aloft or at their side plastic toy hand guns and assault size rifles, with the little bright orange tips, to signify the absence of threat. Strutting down the middle of the road, rather menacingly, they walking past the car and continued around the corner.

Now for the context. We live in one of the the most family-oriented suburbs of probably the whole Western world: Orem, Utah. However, it is apparent that the American culture of glorifying violence is not too far from "home". What is even more disturbing, from my perspective, is that in other countries, this same scene occurs without the orange tips, and with live ammunition. Clearly, there are many huge differences between these two groups of young men, however, the question is begged of us how far apart are they?

For more about child soldiers in the heart of Africa see below:
http://www.invisiblechildren.com/

Never Done...

2010-12-19T21:55:00.007Z

Frankly, my posting has been sporadic at best in the last year or so. However, this has certainly not been because I have had little to report. Life has been bursting at the seams. So this post, in many respects is a little tribute to those who have had sway in my life over the last year or two.

As you may know we have been in England and other parts of the Europe completing my MA (Human Rights and Genocide Studies) at Kingston University. During my course of study we have been able to see some of architecture, eat the food and meet the people that makes Europe so unique. Most of all, I am eternally grateful for my 'colleagues' I have met during my studies. Thanks for your insight and friendship, I look forward to crossing paths with you all in the future.

A significant part of my studies has been the research, planning, re-planning, new research, and writing of the first draft of my dissertation. I will make this available when it is completed next Spring. It has been challenging, and rewarding. At the moment the main idea centres around the use of nonviolent civil resistance as a means of confronting gross violations of human rights and bringing about constructive social and political change through positively engaging the international community. The secret to writing this dissertation has been plenty of blue note cards, my favorite pens, my supervisor's knowledgeable contributions and Karin's loving encouragement.

Last but by no means least, my family has been phenomenal in their love and support. Both my Nan and Grandad have offered immeasurable encouragement, help and conversation- they truly inspire my to write my own "stories" as a historian. My parents have, without fail, been there for us with meals, beds, furniture, everything except the kitchen sink. (This assistance was largely helped by their burgeoning surplus of household goods and big hearts.) Dear family, we will miss being close to you, especially on Sundays.

Now it's back to Utah!

UCL Occupation - Invest in, not Cut the Future

2010-12-01T16:28:00.002Z

I have been watching with academic and personal interest the student protests against cuts in public funding for higher education. Simply put, if these are times of more effective management of the national budget for stabilizing the economy for future generations, surely investment in education, not cuts should be the order of the day.

Please investigate the compelling, peaceful occupation at UCL-
http://ucloccupation.com/
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/video/2010/nov/30/student-protests-university-occupation-video

A Weekend in the Life of a Rookie Holocaust Scholar

2010-11-07T12:55:00.004Z

This past weekend has been fascinating, both for things I have learned and observed. I spent from Thursday through to Sunday in Florida attending the Holocaust Educational Foundation biennial Lessons & Legacies conference. I was expecting to be one of many graduate students in attendance, however, this is certainly not so, out of 200 I was one of the few. Nonetheless, I was able to meet and converse with many in my academic demographic and some beyond that.

Some of what I observed was quite anecdotal- constant calls from more senior attendees for the presenter to 'SPEAK INTO THE MIC!', and one of the organizers constantly checking that everyone was wearing their ID badges for 'security reasons'- which is understandable, but still seemed excessive. And of course, there was the taxi driver on Sunday who took me to the wrong church, despite the Google map, address, and directions- but who doesn't enjoy a 40 minute walk to church?

Beside these silly things, the conference was great. I was able to present my thesis on Ustasa Croatia and gain some great insight from others' comments on my work. There were also excellent panels, talks and workshops- the best covered teaching the Holocaust and the use of emotion in the classroom. Check out the links below to learn more-

Jeremy Andrews (this student completed a 'creative' assignment at a university in Toronto)-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCmiQGNUCiU

Mosques, Nationalism and America

2010-09-14T22:51:00.002+01:00

Over the past weeks the drum beats of radical voices in America have grown loud enough to hear in not so sunny England. Talk of Evangelical ministers burning the Koran was treated with expressions of confusion and amazement here in London, as I over hear co-workers discuss US current events. 9/11 protests have further served to draw the world's attention.

This posting is largely inspired my a dear friend's comments on this matter. She these expressed so eloquently that I do not feel the need to re-iterate the integral part that freedom of religion plays in the founding principles of the US. However, I hope to briefly draw attention to a grave and more dangerous matter.

Nationalism is a fore-runner to most wars and violent conflict. Whether it be the belligerent, or the defender, references to the superiority of one's politics, national sentiment, and even sense of superiority are quite common. A sense of national pride has been present in the US for centuries. It has ebbed and flowed in times of war and memorial, and not necessarily equatable with violent nationalism. This phenomenon is now in experiencing glaring spike of rhetoric and activity in the US. Ironies of this nationalist sentiment abound, as noted in the Olberman's special comment on the "Ground Zero Mosque". What is more frightening, though, as he states, where will this growing sense of nationalism take us? Given currency by respected politicians, and the coming elections, American nationalist ideologues are set to rise in popularity and followers.

A warning must be voiced: the isolated incidents of violence associated with this type of sentiment, if nationalist history is anything to go by, are likely to become mainstream and acceptable.

Reviving the Past

2010-08-04T21:14:00.005+01:00

A break from the norm...

I have recently been reunited with two dear old friends. In response to my complaints about growing old and being much more 'old man-ish' than I ought to be, they suggested an activity in rekindling our youth. I think this may have been mostly for my benefit, especially after being called an 'old man' several times. Names shall not be mentioned!

So after dismissing Risk as too boring and the cinema as too expensive, we boldly headed down to Brighton beach. After arriving at about 9 pm we scrounged up some Fish & Chips (and doughnuts) and sat on the beach with our small feast.

Then commenced the swimming. Fortunately no glue was need for the shorts this time. Despite it being rather late (10 pm by this point) the water was not super cold, but the stones on the beach were hard! This is the point that I realized that I truly am getting old after complaining rather loudly about the hardness of the stones on my delicate feet.

The highlight of the evening had to be sitting on the beach, wet, talking with two old friends about the future and what life still has to offer us.

Cheers lads- my memories of you will always be close to my heart, wherever we may be.

Political History

2010-07-23T12:35:00.003+01:00

How could it be anything but…right? I came across the other day an editorial piece in the Evening Standard highlighting the back-door entry given to the new government’s ‘favourite’ historians to reshape schools’ history curriculum. Among the academics in question was Niall Ferguson, a Conservative politically. In this writer's opinion Ferguson produces some excellent analyses of British and global conflict and economic history. Ferguson is quoted in the Standard as claiming that every new government brings in its own ‘favourite’ academic, pointing to the Labour government using Marxist historian Eric Hobsbawm in shaping curriculum (who is also very excellent at what he does).

However, the question this complaint of favouritism raised for me was the ownership and stewardship of history. How shared is something that can be so subject to interpretation. ‘Facts’ are twisted this way and that and then presented in a completely different context- but this is partly the ‘kick’ some historians get out of their profession! At a minimum a collective group of people with a common history should be able to be conscious of their past and teach it to their children, and either be willing to respect academics or participate in constructive historical debate; and historians as the stewards of our past must learn to share the ‘facts’ and create a reasonable dialogue on our complex heritage.

No Man is an Island

2010-05-18T07:58:00.003+01:00

I meant to post these thoughts last week, but time has been running short for me recently.

Like many of you I have been fascinated with the progress of the UK election.

The result of a 'hung parliament' and following coalition formation reminded me of one of my favorite verses in poetry by John Donne-

"All mankind is of one author, and is one volume; when one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book, but translated into a better language; and every chapter must be so translated...As therefore the bell that rings to a sermon, calls not upon the preacher only, but upon the congregation to come: so this bell calls us all: but how much more me, who am brought so near the door by this sickness....No man is an island, entire of itself...any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind; and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee."

Indeed, not only did David Cameron and Nick Clegg realize that they were not islands vying for the leadership for the UK, but there were fellow travelers on a road which we all are on. It is perhaps that at this moment many British folks see that we can accomplish more together than if pursuing our separate paths.

This summary is overly optimistic, however, in such dark days one could not be but excused for such idealism. Let us see what the 'Dave and Nick Show' will bring us!

Guns anyone?

2010-04-15T14:17:00.003+01:00

It has been a while since I have posted mostly because we have been super busy here in Warsaw with having fun and doing some occasional graduate work.

These following questions regarding gun use, ownership, and Christian principles come from a discussion on a friend's blog. These are by no means conclusive, however, they do offer something to think about...

There are three questions with which each gun holder should concern himself with-
1. By owning a gun for self-protection have I taken my trust out of God and placed it in the gun?
2. By owning and carrying have I already made the choice to kill someone?
3. How much protection does owning and carrying really offer myself, my family, and society at large?

Go below to see the original discussion-
http://byuselway.blogspot.com/2010/03/strange-encounter.html

God lives in Auschwitz

2010-02-12T13:09:00.006Z

Holocaust survivor Primo Levi has been quoted as saying that, “If there was Auschwitz, there is no God.” (I believe this may be taken from his work entitled- The Periodic Table.) Surely this must have seemed plausible for the many devout Jews, and other religious persons who found themselves swimming in all manner of filth and evil in the variety of prison, work and death camps set up around eastern Europe during WWII. This despair of faith also has broader implications to the many victims of genocide and crimes against humanity throughout the ages, both before Auschwitz and after.

Elie Wizel shared a similar depth of doubt when, after spending months preserving his own life and that of his father’s, he finally lost his patriarch. After their ‘death march’ out of Auschwitz his father gave up the will to resist death and succumbed to the fatigue and torture. Moving beyond simple questions of why ‘bad’ things happen to ‘good’ people we find a crisis of faith for many in the walls of the chambers of death constructed by the Nazis and successive murderous regimes.

I have never been held both psychologically and physically captive in this way, neither do I anticipate such an incarceration upon the basis of my ‘ethnicity’, religion, or political ideals. However, as a student of such tragedies one cannot but inquire as to the response one would give in such a scenario. What would I do if the door of my family’s home is kicked in and they take me out, and brutalize my wife and children? What would I do when faced with stealing, or more unspeakable acts of desperation to survive a concentration camp? Or perhaps in the spirit of Martin Niemoller would I have spoken up when ‘they’ came for my neighbors, colleagues, or friends? Or most dauntingly, when a machete is thrust into my hand and the order to kill or be killed is given would I shrink with the love of all mankind or rise to the pride of selfishness and so-called instinct for survival?

Hypothetical situations are most sincerely a dime a dozen with their factors crafted to illicit certain responses, depending on the inquisitor. What is perhaps more at hand is what I believe about the meaning and purpose of such events and tragedies. Without wanting to wax too theological, it would be amiss if one did not turn to such topics as the purpose of life and even the purpose of suffering. From this writer's comfortable train carriage it would seem too easy to claim the noble purpose of suffering and the blessing of enduring well under the hand of devils, or the tutorials of the loving Father in Heaven. Nonetheless, this is where we find true meaning and conviction in our beliefs, when we are pushed by circumstances and situations to act in faith. Thus, as ambitious and even reckless as it may sound, in Auschwitz is indeed where one would find God.

Jesus Christ, doubled over in Gethsemane bleeding from every inch of his frame, reached into the suffering of all throughout the ages. This incomprehensible act of love, with its ‘awful arithmetic’ becomes real for the Christian as he and she feels the pains and bitterness of suffering and realizes that the path is not trod alone. Of course, the love of God is not an exclusive affection, but abundant upon all humankind.

So, where else would one find God if not in Auschwitz?

The following are some links to further thoughts on the matter...

http://www.spectacle.org/695/essay.html

Primo Levi quote-
http://oproject.wordpress.com/2009/02/02/holocaust-memorial-day-primo-levi-the-unbeliever/

Neal A. Maxwell 'Enduring Well'-
http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?locale=0&sourceId=6174dbdcc370c010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD

Mind the Gap

2010-01-21T17:23:00.009Z

I have heard this nearly every day of my life for the last year. Mind the gap! It must have worked for within the 'gap' that you could lose a bath tub I have not fallen all this time.

Life here in England has been anything but boring in between family, University, Church, work, and random acts of kindness and activism. Probably most significant of these has been the first two. During the months of September, October and November I was flying solo whilst starting my Masters course in Human Rights and Genocide Studies, since Karin and Arthur were in the US waiting for their UK visas to arrive. Before I go on I must express my profound appreciation to all the family and friends that accommodated and supported us during this trying time.

Being able to pursue further education has brought me one step closer to the dream, and spending extra time with Karin and Arthur has allowed me to live it too.

Also of note was the Peace in Sudan rally I attended in the New Year, as you can see above. This event is part of an on-going global campaign. Please see for yourself -

http://www.sudan365.org/

2010 is a crucial election year for Sudan, both in Darfur and in the war-torn South. This is the first election held in many years since Bashir's rise to power. The question remains however, how peaceful these elections and future transitions of power will be. Keep your eyes and conscience peeled!

So, don't mind the gap in this post as it is random, and please forgive my 'gap' in posting!

Speaking Truth to Power

2009-10-10T18:10:00.002+01:00

The following is a letter to my MP here in Horsham urging action for Darfur and justice for crimes against humanity. Please feel free to copy this letter and make it your own and send it to your political representative.

Dear Mr. Maude:

Since you came to our small gathering of concerned citizens at the Genocide Awareness and Prevention Event at my home last April, much has been happening in Darfur. I write to you again today to strongly urge and impress upon your abilities to act for the people of Darfur. Despite the recent US appointment of a Special Envoy to Sudan progress has still yet to be seen. Displaced persons continue to suffer from a lack of protection, and a new Janjaweed and Sudanese army front is being formed in an area of refugee camps that are largely blocked from receiving aid.

Since March of this year, in response to the ICC warrant for his arrest, President Omar al-Bashir has been expelling much needed aid agencies, such as Doctors Without Borders, and restricting of the remaining NGOs. Limited or zero access to camps North-West of El-Fasher is particularly troubling as this area is now susceptible to new violence in the last few weeks. (Please see the attached map showing the access to camps and aid: http://www.unsudanig.org/library/mapcatalogue/darfur/data/access/Map%201384%20SU-DAR-HUM-26_A3_090719_Darfur_Humanitarian_Access_Map.pdf)

In the Korma and Tawlia region, Sudanese troops supporting Janjaweed militia have been again attacking camps and attempting to forcibly remove Darfur refugees. This joint force is pursuing a policy of moving refugees back to their homes, which have been looted burnt and with their wells poisoned and cattle stolen over the last seven years. The current events of mid-September came shortly after this statement from a senior official from al-Bashir’s party on September 10th, “Dr. Mahdi Qotbi, the head of NCP political sector said on Thursday [September 10, 2009] that war in Darfur now came to an end and there is no fighting between the government army and the rebels as it is stated by the peacekeeping mission (UNAMID). [ …] Mahdi also said all the humanitarian and security effects of the conflict started to disappear adding the current stage would focus to clear the camps of displaced population and resettle them into their homeland” (From Sudan Tribune September 10, 2009). Bashir’s government is notorious, as you may well know, for duplicity and deception. The pattern of a state that consistently abuses human rights is continuing to perpetuate itself. Whether or not the crimes being committed in Darfur are considered genocide, it is clear that the Sudanese government is taking advantage of its impunity to commit crimes against humanity among its own people as it has in the South of Sudan and in the Nuba Mountains region.

While we are a long way from ending the fighting itself, immediate steps can be taken by the UK government to ensure a better path for peace in Darfur and Sudan as a whole. A recent report from the UK government’s Joint Committee on Human Rights states that the impunity gap must be closed for those accused for crimes against humanity and war crimes who are just ‘visitors’ to our country. The committee also supports the conclusion that a War Crimes Unit is needed to address the issues of closing the impunity gap and ending the UK’s accommodation of these villains. Making these improvements in policy and practice will go far in showing our opposition to those who engage in these crimes. We cannot allow international criminals to pass through our borders.

The UK government, be it this or the one to take office next year, must act in the long-term to do more to support targeted sanctions against those perpetrating violence in Sudan and not the people who are victims. The warrants issued by the ICC must be enforced with the above measures and diplomatic creativity and ingenuity. Mr. Maude, I intend to act upon these issues today. I hope that you are true to the words you passionately shared at our small gathering about the horrid and inhuman nature of these crimes. Indeed, I believe the power of constituency letters will move our government to act to end genocide and crimes against humanity, if not now in Darfur then at some point in the future. The question is how much more blood will be on our hands before that happens?

I can commit that you will receive more letters regarding the tragedy of Darfur in the coming months.

Sincerely,

Christopher P. Davey

Politician Hate, Isn't There a Word For This?

2009-09-10T18:07:00.011+01:00

Having survived the blazing desert of Nevada the Davey family has now ventured to Austin for blazing humid heat (and rain apparently). As always my mind is congealing several subjects ranging from nonviolent genocide prevention, health care reform, and my family's plan for the next few years.

However, the most recent lodger in my brain has been the distaste, even hate, many of us harbor for our political representatives. Having my fingers in the political pies of both the US and the UK it is apparent that we as a large portion of western society have become so disenchanted with politicians that we don't know what to do with ourselves. "Well, if you don't like it just run for office!" If that were so easy and applicable to all of us who are disenchanted, then satisfying our hunger for 'something that works' would be elementary. But how about some real solutions? I do not claim to offer grandiose answers, but I do think there are some basic principles that could help us learn to live and cooperate with those that we elect.

Firstly, it is clear that with any discipline the starting point is original source material. For scientists they engage raw matter, for historians we use diaries, photos, evidence from the time period in question. So as citizens of any country we must look not only to ourselves but to current events in their most naked and original form. It is perhaps typical of our 'microwave culture' that we want fast, easy, and filtered news. Unfortunately, this has produced societies of quick news that lacks the depth and un-bias nature that we need to form our own analysis and to make our own choices. The Internet is of course the great hero and villain of this need for original material. Glenn Beck, an American news pundit and Mormon, hails his views in his recent book Common Sense, in which he has rehashed Thomas Pain's pamphlet in an attempt to condemn all things Progressive and non-Republican (in his view). However, in his sweeping narrative of current and past events within American society he presents his readers with filtered news swirled with his own opinion. So let us search out, from multiple sources, current events that are in their raw form, not distilled for monolithic consumption.

Secondly, we as public citizens must give way to chastisement for separating ourselves from our representatives. As democracies we have a relationship that ties both citizen and legislator together with consent and governance. Politicians are drawn from us, so they still have potential to be human and act in all the ways that we also do- be it for good or ill. We have a dynamic responsibility to participate in our communities and states. And I might add that with the increasingly global natures of our societies we have a growing responsibility to the peoples of the world, our brothers and sisters, who have needs that our greater than ours (forget health care in America, how about not getting raped to obtain food for your starving children in Sudan?). However, our domestic needs and global needs must not be separated: an earth-wide pursuit of the kind of things that make Americans so enamoured with their Constitution, like "justice, welfare and liberty", not to mention inalienable rights, is the type of crusade that can really guarantee security and survival. Arise and stand forth! Vote, participate, and engage with public servants and causes- don't hate, just play.

Thirdly, remember that whichever of the major western religions, even Islam, you may subscribe to condemn hating our brothers and sisters, whatever their flavour of politics or life. Hating and vilifying those with whom we share our daily bread is not the way forward. It is the way backward.

As always my comments are and should not be taken as blanket for all of us. Whilst preventing our frustration from turning into hate, we must gain control of ourselves, roll-up our sleeves and participate in our democracies.

Hiroshima Day

2009-08-06T11:51:00.008+01:00

(See below for description of picture.)

This morning I attended the Horsham Inter-Faith Hiroshima Remembrance service. Returning home Karin asked me how it was. I didn't really have a reply, after all, isn't the Cold War over? Have we no longer nothing to fear from MAD (Mutually Assured Destruction)? Did we not get the news flash? Whilst that war is over, however, many have followed in succession; war itself is even changing: no more fronts, no more mass mobilized armies, but terrorists, counter-terrorists and countless civilian targets. Worse still the 'Bomb' is central to the war epidemic that scourges mankind.

What have we learnt from Hiroshima (and Nagasaki, and many subsequent tests performed clandestinely by the world's governments)? Nothing much it seems. We easily forget the horror and destruction that was unleashed on this day 64 years ago. But as with many other tragedy's we face today, it must be more than the pure anguish that moves us. As much as the pain of such things can motivate us to change, we need a reason and morality for change. We need governance that is creative and courageous.

Learn we must about the cost and price of such weapons. We can improve and enforce the system (IAEA) under which we regulate and monitor such materials. Even expand the unexplored avenue of the great 'Wars on Terror' by controlling the plans and ingredients that make up the Bomb. We must seek for dis-armament as the only alternative to MAD(ness).

There is a swelling movement that is calling for this abolition. Our governments can and must lead the way in showing nuclear responsibility and reduction. Only by controlling as a means to elimination (being the end) can we assure protection from would-be nuclear terrorists and even ourselves.

BAN THE BOMB!

Please see the following sites to inform and instruct yourselves regarding this great threat-

http://nuclearweaponarchive.org/
http://www.2020visioncampaign.org/

Also available from a local library or even your old 80s collection of VHS (what?) The Day After, a moving and wrenching movie about the great what if... see the below clip-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7VG2aJyIFrA

(Annotation for the top diagram.)
All numbers are estimates because exact numbers are top secret.
Strategic nuclear warheads are designed to target cities, missile locations and military headquarters as part of a strategic plan.

Isreal: Israeli authorities have never confirmed or denied the country has nuclear weapons.
North Korea: The highly secretive state claims it has nuclear weapons, but there is no information in the public domain that proves this.
Iran: The International Atomic Energy Agency reported in 2003 there had been covert nuclear activity to make fissile material and continues to monitor Tehran's nuclear programme.
Syria: US officials have claimed it is covertly seeking nuclear weapons

Congo Comes to Light in your Cell Phone

2009-07-23T17:24:00.007+01:00

Shadowed by superfluous celebrity news and many of the other human tragedies in today’s world the Congo continues to suffer. Much of this is perpetuated by our own indifference and voracious consumerism. Please see the below BBC article and links to learn more about one of the most deadly places on earth to be a female and how conflict minerals fuel on-going crimes against humanity.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/8159977.stm
http://www.raisehopeforcongo.org/
http://www.globalwitness.org/pages/en/drc_conflict.html

Broken

2009-07-05T22:12:00.011+01:00

In light of the recent deaths of UK soldiers (8 within 24 hours as of Friday July 10th) in Afghanistan I was somewhat hesitant to publish this posting, but it appears that now more than ever we must rethink how we conduct and resolve conflicts. Please read on...

Something I have been constantly taking in over the last few years has been the tragic burden born by our societies in the wake of the current war, both in Afghanistan and Iraq. I have seen documentaries explicating the price families and soldiers pay as part of their sacrifice, including even images glorifying such destruction as patriotic.

What is the price of freedom? We seem willing and content to allow our young men and women march off to kill the 'enemy' and be killed. An enemy who is becoming increasingly difficult to identify and track down (this has been a consistent war problem most notably since Vietnam). Surely, there must be a better way for us to manage and end conflicts if we are inclined to do so. The broken bodies and lives should speak out to us with a horror that should prevent us from offering up the cream of our societies to such barbarism. Fortunately many soldiers return to loving families, and perhaps even an area where veterans associations are able to reach out and help in recovery and de-programming. However, even those with the best care and support do not survive even after the fighting is over.

Many veterans end their lives, unable to deal with a mental burden placed upon them. Fireworks become frightening, gory entertainment is seen for what it is, and close relationships are difficult to maintain. It is our burden to demand more imagination from ourselves, the public, and our elected leaders- imagination to find more creative and longer-lasting ways of fighting terror and resolving conflict in the world.

I have heard many stories of the veterans of today's wars taking their lives in despair, depression and anguish. Not having had direct experience with this suffering in my immediate or distant family I will let those who have speak for themselves.

Please take time visit for watch some of the following (try You Tube, of course):

Corporal’s Diary
http://thecorporalsdiary.com/

Reserved to Fight
http://www.reservedtofight.com/reserved/

BBC Documentary: The Fallen

Better equipment?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8145334.stm

Grace is Gone (John Cusack movie)

Politics?

2009-06-03T17:31:00.005+01:00

As with all good explanations this one begins with a definition, but perhaps one that will (hopefully) change your outlook. Politics, as first studied by Plato and Aristotle, is the science of human organization, or even the philosophy of human affairs. The aforementioned students of politics considered this science of humanity to be the greatest of all sciences. Can you already sense the disconnect with what we call ‘politics’ today and what the original intent was? If this is one of man’s greatest quests why do a majority of the world’s western democracies have such low voter turnout, and why do so many of the peoples of Africa and Asia struggle for even the most basic freedoms? Why do we think that establishing democracy is simply giving people a ballot paper and a pencil?

I suppose my journey here started with my so-called political awakening whilst living in the US. I was on the outside looking in: the proverbial legal alien (and non-voting tax payer). Both the elections of 2004 and 2008 divided the country, a division that was exacerbated by fanatics on both sides and the ‘cheap’ media. I occasionally threw in my tupence (two cents) without dealing with the reality of actually having to cast my vote (this was both frustrating and relieving). Many friends, co-workers, and acquaintances, divided or apathetic, saw politics as pointless and fruitless, merely the bickering of over-paid politicians and pundits. Upon returning to England, I found a different scene, but a similar plot. Heightened and distracted by recent expense claim scandals, many see it all as ridiculous and some just don’t even bother. “They are all slimey,” I heard one friend say. This is not what politics ought to be about.

How tragic this situation truly is I cannot express. It impacts not only our own destinies, but also the fate of those in other parts of world who truly need our help in establishing rights to life and personhood. (Darfur and the Democratic Republic of Congo anyone?) Years of so-called ‘politics’ have drained the sense of democratic responsibility out of too many of us. Some waste their time, as I have done, waiting for a good leader to come along, or someone more likeable. As much as King Arthur appeals to me, it is still unproven myth. There will be no return from Avalon until the British, and any people, chose to save themselves. So when you are reminded to vote, don’t roll your eyes, or throw your hands up in the air- VOTE! Let your voice ring out, and if that is not enough, well, start practising ancient politics in your own community- organize and make your voice known. After all, it should be what brings us together not what divides us that should define who we truly are.

The Dreams We Have As Chidlren

2009-05-15T17:50:00.006+01:00

While we're living, the dreams we have as children fade away

-Noel Gallagher

I love this song. Of course it is written and performed by one of my favorite artists- Oasis. However, I quote it here today not as part of any Oasis-fest, I quote this in reference to the shadowing debate between the divided camps of realism and idealism (in the political and social, not artistic sense).

Gifted to me from a dear friend and teacher, I have been reading Susan Neiman's Moral Clarity: A Guide for Grown-up Idealists. Neiman argues in one part of the book for idealism (approaching the world not as it is but as it could and should be) on the basis of the hope that we have in our children. While as we mature and grow we may lose sight of simple worldviews and life expectations which are generous and kind, like a child has, we subsequently lose sight of worthy ideals which we can and should maintain and strive for.

Her argument, for me, hits its high point in her summing up of the debate on human nature. Whilst indeed, it is flawed, and perhaps has a certain duality (we are capable of both good and evil), we as humans are fundamentally good. Our children, she points out, should be our constant reminder of what this intrinsic goodness that humanity is bestowed with. We indeed are born into this world, no matter how corrupt and evil in parts, innocent and pure, ready to be nurtured and showered with love. Taking this perspective into mind, one may find that not only are we more idealist, but somehow the debate itself becomes somewhat muted.

If you are Christian, then the following words may well convalesce into this idea, “And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 18:3). Again, the child within us and the children around us serve as exemplary models of humanity reaching its full potential. Adding context to this from the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin, councils that becoming like little children is essential in developing a Christ-like nature, “submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seethes fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father.” (Mosiah 3:19). Surely there is nothing weak and powerless about these virtues that enabled our Savior to accomplish so much for humankind.

Our children and childlike qualities should be the springboard into life; life not as we know it, but as we want it to be. Many of us ‘grow-up’ and become more ‘realistic’ in our worldviews and expectations; however, we cannot harbor any excuses or pride for denying our dreams and living as children, “willing to submit to all things”.

P.S.

On a personal note, if you are not convinced then take another look at Arthur’s picture featured on this months heading and think about the potential and promise of our offspring.

Genocide Awareness and Prevention Event

2009-04-26T15:31:00.005+01:00

As background to this posting I have to mention briefly the conference I was involved in organizing before we left to come to UK. Under the title of the Bonner J. Ritchie Dialogue on Peace and Justice Studies we hosted a conference on genocide, or Genocide: Past, Evils, and Prevention. Many important issues were addressed: current crimes in Darfur, the psychology of evil and good, careers in the field of genocide prevention and study. Of particular note at this event were the four scholars, Bonner himself, and High Roads for Human Rights director Rocky Anderson. All were brilliant in their own right; however, the comments of one struck out like a bell to me above all others. Sam Totten, from the University of Arkansas, barely managed to squeeze in the final comment of an over-stuffed panel discussion. Whilst our other panel members recommended congress-letter writing, and other forms of activism, Sam classed these as not good enough. Having visited Rwanda and the Chad-Sudan border he saw the bleeding and suffering first hand. He unequivocally stated, “If I am dying, I want you to do more than write a letter.”

There is much that could be said about Sam’s remark. However, having spoken with him on separate occasions I was convinced that I now needed to step up my efforts in bringing justice, peace, and accountability for the genocide in Darfur. Most of our speakers, as well as Sam, were veterans of the anti-war or civil rights movements. They truly put themselves into harms way for the needs and rights of others. It is simply too easy for me to sit here at my computer and click away my conscience and activism. Sending emails here and signing petitions there- I need to do more. As Sam said, people are indeed dying, and with the decrease in aid agencies being allowed to stay in Darfur, and the slow, long-term nature of the genocide there, the time for preparation is past; action must be the imperative of now.

While I have this new-found commitment to live up to I find myself back in England where passion for Darfur is not as mainstream or apparent as it is in the States. It is almost like I have regressed. I decided that I needed to get to work and fast. Last Friday I hosted an evening of Genocide Prevention and Awareness. Our event consisted of presentations, videos, and a keynote speaker- Francis Maude, our local member of parliament for Horsham. Almost miraculously, Francis had recently been on visits to both Rwanda and Auschwitz. He has been hitting local schools sharing the things he saw and the stories he had heard in both places. He was able to do the same at our event. Describing the horror of Auschwitz and the terror that still lives in the eyes of many Rwandans, he opened our guests to the world of genocide. Our thanks go out to him for his willingness to make an appearance at our event and speak. We also started a petition for Prime Minister Gordon Brown, who last year having promised more to the people of Darfur than the world is currently giving them.

It only just begun, BUT we will get there in the end: justice and peace for the victims of genocide.

Please email me, I can send you the petition for you to add your conscience... and stay posted for further events.

St. George's Day

2009-04-23T20:12:00.000+01:00

A break form the normal gloom and doom that usually gets posted here- or is it?

Heralded in England as the patron saint of our country and legendary dragon slayer, St. George is the emblem bearer of Britons. Of course, as to be expected, much of what popular and even traditional culture holds to be true about our hero is indeed false. In our house we have had back and forth debates about whether he was actually Hungarian or even French (oh heaven forbid!). Well according to the perhaps more accurate BBC History pages online St. George was a noble of pre-medieval Christian upbringing, in the area now know as Turkey, and was a soldier for Rome.

Most intriguing to this writer was how he passed from this life into the next- no, not a tragic end whilst engaged in overambitious glory hunting by killing dragons, but by sacrificing himself for his fellow man. As a warrior he refused to fight when ordered to participate in one of the frequent genocides of Christians (systematic killing and persecution). He was subsequently tortured and executed for his defiance, and dare I say non-violence (albeit new-found) and pacifism. That is why he is considered a martyr today; and perhaps a better hero and role model for Britons than the fairy tale dragon slayer.

Faith, Pacifism, Death, and Sacrifice

2009-04-14T12:50:00.000+01:00

Since my undergraduate work finished the other month (December) I have tried to engross myself in some other academic pursuit. My search has been fruitless and I have enjoyed spending my time packing and moving to England (not to mention, of course entertaining Arthur- my favorite pastime). However, fruitless would discredit the ‘thought train’ I have had regarding the link between my beliefs, pacifism, death, self-sacrifice, and drawing a moral line with one’s government. As always I have Karin to thank as my curved and creative sound board.

I have taken this occasion to dip myself into the history of pacifism, both generally throughout modern times and specifically in World War One Britain. I suppose this is where my little journey begins. The story of Bert Brocklesby and his eclectic group of fellow Christians, Communists, Anarchists, and other conscientious objectors (COs) is one of tragedy and triumph. Shortly after it was apparent that a volunteer army was not going to see the British cause through the mud and blood of the trenches conscription was implemented. This dragged COs in front of ad-hoc local tribunals. Individuals were judged on their apparent beliefs: most were sent off non-combatant corps where they were engaged in the ‘worthy causes’ of minesweeping, nursing, cooking, engineering, etc…. However, a small minority was funneled into conscientious objector prisons; these were located throughout Britain and the front in France. Many were subject to torture (mock crucifixions), and continuous physical and psychological pressure to submit to non-combatant service. Most COs found it appalling and humiliating that they were being pressured into aiding passively, though somewhat actively, a war they found immoral and despicable.

While today COs are given a more respectable treatment, the ones that are subject to more deceit and pressure are the more undecided youths of Western society who are hammered by often unscrupulous army recruiters. Immediately, novice questions came to my mind. How does one bear the familial and societal burden of being an objector to war, whilst brothers, sisters, friends and neighbors march off to fight? Of course the burden of moral choices is often borne in solitude, but the hardest part is letting go not simply taking part. CO Bert Brocklesby offered these words concerning his own choices, “Conscience is not the voice of God but it is the best that a man may know from his own experience, and woe betide him if he does not follow the best he knows.” Well hang about- what has the voice of the Lord said about this matter? From the New Testament we are taught the virtues of turning the other cheek in offer to our enemies, and undergoing violence from our brethren as a test of faith and love. Further, the book of Mormon offers some excellent examples of responding to violence on your doorstep. Moroni led the armies of the Nephites into battle to protect their homes, families and freedoms from the rebellious Nephite led Lamanites. While I do not want to make this a treatises on Mormon ethics of war and peace, it is important to point out the pacifism displayed by the people of Ammon, who as part of their covenant for new life in Christ vow never to take up arms against their brethren again. Their covenant was perhaps more unique to their situation and past than anything else, however, it is more than coherent with what would be the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament and the Americas.

The clearer expression of Mormon pacifism can be found in the travails of early Church pioneers whilst living under threat of extermination and persecution from Missouri mobs. Despite those who took it upon themselves to fight violence with violence, such as the infamous Danites and the ad-hoc defense at Haun’s Mill, the Lord commanded his people to proclaim peace not war and, yes, turn the other cheek. The Lord here (more perhaps than any other part of LDS scripture) spells out rules for conflict management. He warns in Section 98 of the Doctrine and Covenants that even after multiple attacks from an enemy one is not justified in reciprocating action against him until after the forth altercation. Even then the Lord further tells us that at this point it would be well for us to spare the enemy and reconcile. Council is given throughout the scriptures to collect witness and testimony against the enemy and proclaim peace; this sort of action is closer to an appeal of justice and law than unilateral, let alone violent, action.

Thus we are brought near to the edge of this precipice; violence is condemned by Christ explicitly in the need to turn the other cheek, and explicitly in the command to love our neighbors. With Christ’s New Covenant described in the New Testament and the Book of Mormon believers have an obligation to these responses in the face of adversity. The cliff and chasm before us is indeed the desire and need to protect family and loved ones in the face of a killer with full intent to take life from the innocent. A bridge appears! Again the life of Savior provides a challenging and bold example. Indeed when speaking of the love that is no greater he spoke of the sacrifice made without violence exercised by the offering. Christ’s example extols this virtue of love in giving life or life. Our bodies provide the ultimate sacrifice which is then sealed with our own blood. Whilst life is never predictable it is clear that faith and sacrifice in this sort of scenario will have whatever end they may.

Death indeed is formidable. Mere mortals speak of it as disease, enemy, and even victory. Truly, a life lived in service and love is a life lived without fear and violence. When the specter approaches it would be essential for us to remember it comes as progression not a final stage. Thus, all we have to take us through such an encounter would most defiantly be convictions such as these and beliefs like those the Savior taught.

Now that my mind, for now, has sufficiently conquered this obstacle it remains only for my body to be dragged along. The current rung of this ladder however, is harder to climb and will take a lot more thought and practice. Returning to the counseled response of the early Mormons to the Missouri mobs it is unclear whether Joseph and his closest co-sufferers could be classed as either civil disobedients, or as compliant. It would be safe to draw the conclusion that while Joseph’s fate was sealed by his willingness to subject himself to trumped-up charges he spent his fair share of time avoiding the ‘law’ and escaping jails. Ghandi certainly would have been pleased by his open acceptance of would-be assassins into Nauvoo to sit at Joseph’s table. Martin Luther King too, would perhaps have been impressed with his ability to organize and preach peace to an abused people. Indefinitely, it remains with us, as bearers of Joseph’s flame to continue to honor the principles of love and service. It also is up to us to decide how to solve this conundrum of how to respond to those who would do us harm, especially when those antagonists are our own government.

Arrest Warrant is Out!

2009-03-04T17:00:00.000Z

For those who may have read a previous posting last summer entitled Two Villains, One Crime, break news today has just emerged. Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir has had a warrant issued for his arrest for crimes against humanity and war crimes. The International Criminal Court, responsible for the indictment, has issued this warrant despite two previous warrants that were ignored for the interior minister and leading militia leader- both were directly responsible in the leadership of the genocide which has killing more than 300,000 Darfuris and displaced over a million.

ICC spokesperson Laurence Blairon stated today that, “intentionally directing attacks against an important part of the civilian population of Darfur, Sudan, murdering, exterminating, raping, torturing and forcibly transferring large numbers of civilians and pillaging their property.”

Check out the BBC story-
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7923102.stm

Price of Victory

2009-02-14T18:44:00.000Z

Listening one Sunday to musical number, a tune famous from eighteenth century revolutionary North America, I pictured George Washington counting the dead after one of many failed pitched battles against the British. My mind wandered to the lives lost and the cost of what many considered a victory in the end. Perhaps this thought could aptly be titled the Price of Victory.

This is not an analysis of cost versus benefit, but a reminder of the price we as a nation, state, and even humanity pay for many a supposed victory. Of course, this leads inevitably to the qualifying definition of the word ‘victory’ itself- what accomplishment is worthy of the sacrifice of young males, and even females in their prime of lives? Perhaps measuring such violent endeavors goes beyond the physical toll; what about the damage to survivors? Questioning the validity of the cause is a healthy exercise when considering the lives that are often shattered. Historically, I want to give a few examples of how the Price of Victory was too great considering the outcomes and causes of the conflict.

Looking back at the global conflict that was World War I, or as Kipling called it the Great War, a war to end all wars, we see the senseless loss of life and the countries that were shattered, fatefully paving the road then travelled that led to World War II. Knowing the historical and cultural factors that led to this 'Great War', is only half the picture. Military alliances, international ally treaties, stockpiling advanced weapons, and cultivating nationalism that could easily be mobilized for war all contributed. All these factors indeed played into the conflict. However, it is the destruction of lives and humanity that was bequeathed to the next generation that did the most damage. Veterans filling the streets of Paris shuffling themselves along in wooden boxes because their legs had been lost to mortars or mines. Violent veterans fueling the fires of growing Nazism filling the ranks of the brown shirted SA. Empty family tables where countless sons had been sacrificed to imperialist squabbles.

Since this tragedy our generation has experienced a different conflict. War in Iraq, or the War on Terror as the media heralded it, has been declared by its supports and some opponents as a success, security is manageable and stability is perhaps on the horizon. But, lest we forget, how we, the supposed civilized nations (US and UK, plus allies), found ourselves there in the first place. Rumors of weapons of mass destruction, myths of Al-Qaeda support given by Hussein, and a eagerness to carry on the Cold War mentality by finding a new 'enemy'. Despite these misleading motives that called the world to war once more, many of us conceded and took up arms. Now we ask- the Price of Victory? Broken lives of many servicemen duped by recruiting officers and now suffering with lost limbs from IEDs and new depths of PTSD damage. Weighing what was considered the motives for victory, and the way the war was conducted indeed moves this writer to the conclusion that victory was certainly not worth the price.

Inevitably, hindsight is always twenty-twenty; however, surely these two lessons of history can teach us at least one thing if nothing else: fighting for 'peace' is rarely done with swords, but accomplished with patience, respect for the rule of law, and open political communication. After all, how many of us who consider war to be palatable if we ourselves would be willing to pierce a brother or sister with the hot metal of death? If we ourselves were to consider our future lives, or that of our children, with a broken body, or a spirit ever haunted by the memory of those slain?

As always the picture is never complete without your comments.

End of an Era, or just another year?

2008-12-27T23:43:00.000Z

Goodness gracious me!

Well the time has finally come for me to put together some words about the ushering of a new year and the end of the old one. Surprisingly enough so much good has come about this last year I just have to tell you about it.

First and foremost was the arrival of our son Arthur, or the 'baby presently known as peanut.' His coming into our home and family was much anticipated and longed for. He truly is a blessing and bundle of joy. Karin and I have simply never been happier.

After four years of slogging away at essays, revising for multiple choice tests, and striving to put forth my best effort, I have finally finished my Undergraduate degree. The degree I will end with will be History, with and minor in Peace and Justice Studies, and Honors. Throughout the four years spent at Utah Valley University, I have had the opportunity to meet some great folks and be taught by some excellent professors. I have been able to visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum twice, assistant teach a class on World War II history, and finally play a main role in organizing a conference this coming March. I have also been able to travel to the National Conference of Undergraduate Research held in Maryland to present my own research. Most profoundly though I have Karin to thank as my faithful companion, editor, and support for helping me accomplish these achievements.

We have been able to visit with nearly all of our family this year. We were able to travel to England in the summer, and Karin and Arthur were able to go to Austin in November. We love you all so much, and are eternally grateful for your affection and prayers. I especially want to highlight our grandparents for their unwavering love and friendship. Betty Berg you are the bomb!

Karin and I were also able to bask in the light of greatness as we travelled to Vegas to see the Gallagher brothers & Co. in concert. Oasis indeed have been one of the mainstays in my life, and this concert was in a word- incredible! And yes, Liam did wish us (all) a Merry Christmas.

Last, but by no means least have been the companions in life that we have bid farewell to this year. Our dearest and nearest friends Danny and BreighAn Lainhart were able to welcome into this world little Keegan Noble. His stay with us in this sphere of existence was brief, but joyous. Arthur will truly miss his little friend , as indeed we all will. Their faith and patience has truly been exemplary. Thank you.

In the Spring of this year our dear old Nan finally moved on to her next adventure in life. Nanny Doris, was loving and bold to the last. She welcomed Karin into the family as one of our own, and was never afraid to set you straight. I will miss her so much, as we all will. Her battle with her health was fuelled by a loving companion, as much as by expert specialists and her will to survive. Indeed she is a brave warrior one of which we may never see the likes of again soon.

Have a Happy New Year, and don't forget to take your socks off!

P.S. I cannot fail to mention one of my other 2008 highlights- my fun-loving and hardworking ccomrades at FES, Cheers!

P.P.S. Dig out your Soul!

Health Care or Wealth Care?

2008-10-24T17:11:00.000+01:00

Within the multitude of issues candidates Senators John McCain and Barak Obama have emphasized many have taken second priority to the current condition of the United States’ and global economy. One the issues playing second fiddle to the economic meltdown, but still very potent, is health care, and the current crisis of America providing adequate health care to all its citizens. The statistics of this crisis are often thrown about during rallies and debates, bringing attention to the disparity between US economic power and distribution of health care. According to a report by Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), the number of Americans without health insurance increased from 45.7 million in 2006, to 47 million in 2007. Taking into account the US Census Bureau’s estimate that the US population was just under 300 million in 2006, in 2007 fifteen percent of the US population is uninsured.

These figures are only the surface of the problem. Many who have coverage are still not able to pay for the health care their insurance companies offer. The non-governmental organization AARP in its Divided We Fail report on the candidates’ health care policies documents, “Twenty-three percent of Americans have problems paying medical bills and millions go bankrupt every year because of these bills.” The report also states, “Twenty-nine percent say they have skipped treatment, tests or prescriptions because of costs.” Both candidates stress that these facts and statistics present a real, but solvable problem for many Americans. However, while solutions to the crisis of health care are share economic features, they contain inherent differences due to political ideologies. This paper will defend the respective candidates’ proposals, offer critique and further suggestions of how the issue of health care coverage can be resolved.

Looking first to the Republican candidate, John McCain, who offers more to resolve the crisis than any previous contender from his party. To do this McCain advocates development of the current market-based insurance system. He envisions empowered American citizens with increased spending power to get the coverage they want. The McCain campaign website touts, “We want a system of health care in which everyone can afford and acquire the treatment and preventative care they need. Health care should be available to all and not limited by where you work or how much you make. Families should be in charge of their health care dollars and have more control over care.” Empowering consumers is central to this plan. Supporting a free-market approach the plan utilizes a threefold proposal: providing a $2,500 tax credit for individuals and $5,000 for families to purchase, or fund their own choice of health plan; funding for extra health care costs to those deemed “high-risk” by implementing a “Guaranteed Access Plan (GAP)” on a state by state basis; various other individual reforms such as lower drug costs and solidifying billing systems.

Aside from his recent gaffe during the October 8^th Presidential debate, that $5,000 would be given every American not every American family as his website states, McCain has represented his position well and fairly accurately. The tax credit plan seems to be the central piece to McCain’s market geared proposal. It also draws the most frequent attacks from McCain’s opponents. His ‘empowerment’ proposal for American consumers stems from his objection to any health care solution that would resemble what he calls a “government solution”. During a speech in 2007, he emphasized that any policy involving a “one-size-fits-all-big government takeover of health care” would be “a cure far worse than the affliction is meant to treat.” McCain’s credit works by taxing employer subsidized benefits to provide this credit to working families. This proposal would replace the tax exemption many lower-income Americans already receive for health care. The credit, if any surplus remains after purchase of a more affordable plan, will be put toward a Health Savings Account, allowing for any future, or unexpected costs.

Critique of McCain’s tax credit, from both the vice-presidential debate and Obama’s campaign television advertisements, claim that Americans will be left on their own to pay “McCain’s tax on health insurance.” It has also been stated by the Obama campaign that this plan will tax health benefits for the very first time in health care history. Both claims fall short of the accurate representation. First, to say that Americans will be on their own leaves out an important fact stated in McCain’s website that, “the money would be sent directly to the insurance provider.” The site also adds that the remainder would be credited to Health Saving Account to cover future costs; a practice of many business’ today. Second, referring to the current tax exemption on employer subsidized health care, McCain plans to use the credit to cover any extra cost to taxpayers. The Urban Institute report states, “In general, lower-income people with health insurance would receive benefits from the credit that would be well in excess of the value that they receive from today’s tax exemption. The gains are much smaller for higher-income people.” The credit, on average, aims to cover costs that many families and individuals face.

Providing the tax credit for individuals and families will, according to McCain, drive down prices through competition, allowing American consumers to choose the most affordable plans offered to them by competitive insurance companies. Recurring rhetoric used through the campaign refers to giving back families this power of responsibility to find the plan that will work best for them. McCain defends this health policy, and economic approach as allowing “market forces” to provide reasonable prices and options for Americans. Clearly, when McCain was asked in the recent October 8^th debate whether he thought health care was a “right, privilege, or responsibility,” and answered that it was a responsibility, he meant that it was a responsibility for individual care that would be given back to consumers.

In the opening statement of the McCain website on health care, it firmly states that all Americans should have the access they need to affordable coverage. The other piece of the plan, GAP, will accomplish this goal. Although no concrete reforms are proposed, like unto the tax credit, McCain unveils here a commitment to work with state-level government to ensure both high-risk and the previously uninsured gain the coverage they need. He also is offering federal funding to boost state run efforts for offering coverage. These GAP committees would bring together, business, medical and insurance professionals to work with non-profit groups to grant access to those in these categories.

Taking health care further into the state level, consumers and employers will be allowed to shop from state to state to find the best deal, a measure which is currently prohibited by federal law. Amid other reforms, such as the already mentioned the limiting of drug costs and decreasing administrative excess, McCain does not promise immediate change, but with the tax credit proposal he presents offers a deep economic change to how Americans find and use health care.

Barak Obama’s plan for health care takes McCain’s market driven proposal and injects a more involved government role in ensuring more Americans obtain coverage. When asked at the same October 8^th debate whether health care was a right, privilege, or responsibility, Obama, answered that it was a right. While Obama’s campaign acknowledges many of the same facets of the health care crisis that McCain does, Obama takes further issue with the current system and sees greater need for the federal government to step in on behalf of Americans, especially uninsured children, to ensure an increase in coverage.

While Obama has often said that he would offer Americans the opportunity to have care that is equal to what he has as member of the Senate, he still favors the current insurance market as the driving force behind providing this kind of care for Americans. Obama seeks to create what he calls a Nation Health Insurance Exchange (NHIE). To many observers this has sounded like the ominous ‘socialist’ approach, however, it is not. The NHIE would offer those not currently insured, or those who wish to switch to a more affordable method of coverage, a plan under the Federal Employees Health Benefit Program (FEHBP). The FEHBP is the government organization that provides health care coverage for congress, thus giving some substance to Obama’s campaign claim mentioned above. NHIE proposal touts efficient and smooth processes that will cheapen costs and increase quality by requiring, “Participating hospitals and providers that participate in the new public plan will be required to collect and report data to ensure that standards for health care quality, health information technology and administration are being met.” The NHIE, much like McCain’s plan for a state-to-state market that would allow consumer freedom, ideally will promote competition among plan providers, thus driving down cost. These measures hope to offer the $2,500 decrease in health care costs for families that Obama often cites.

The part of Obama’s health care proposal that has received more attention, and been the subject of controversy, has been the use of government mandates with which Obama intends to enforce what he considers the right to health care. This use of mandating has particular affect on employers and children. Employers will be required to automatically cover employees, as opposed to the current system where employers need to apply within specific enrollment periods and under certain qualifying conditions. Obama’s plan does specify that only “large employers” would be subject to this measure. Smaller businesses will be provided with “Small Business Health Tax Credit,” additionally this type of tax credit is also proposed for families who “cannot afford health insurance.” The Small Business Health Tax Credit would cover up to 50 percent of employer’s health care costs for employees. Based on Obama’s plan to mandate for employers to do more in assisting to provide coverage, the claim made by McCain during the debates that all businesses would be susceptible to this regulation was over-stated.

For children, simply put, Obama will require that “all children will have health care coverage.” This aim will be accomplished by not only using the already mentioned methods of the NHIE and mandating coverage from employers, but also by expanding the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Although Obama’s campaign materials are sparse on exactly how SCHIP should be expanded, it is probable that the poverty line at which benefits are granted will be lowered, and that the program would extend to all legal resident children within the US.

Ultimately, what sets Obama’s approach apart from his opponent’s is his framing of the health care crisis. As stated above, Obama considers access to health care a right. This claim sets his ideals and policies in opposition to the massive industry of health insurers and drug companies who sell health insurance as a product for profit. He has called for investigation into these giants, asking, “How much of our health care spending is going toward the record-breaking profits earned by the drug and health care industry?” Obama’s plan to confront the industry involves use of the NHIE to increase competition amongst insurers. The hope is that instead of keeping income for record profits, insurance giants will pay out more in coverage, saving American families potentially $2,500 a year. Obama’s intent on upholding health care access and coverage as a rights is manifest in his plan for increased government intervention on behalf of Americans.

The above analysis and defense of the candidates’ positions on health care reform reveal their differences, but also many similarities. Both proposals from McCain and Obama are market centered and consumer driven, with Obama’s going a step further in providing more federal support for the uninsured and those who file for “personal bankruptcies” due to rising care costs. While McCain has not, and is never likely to, call for universal health care, or a system modeled from US peers in Europe, Obama has done so on many occasions. Speaking in January 2007, to the Families USA Conference, Obama boldly stated that the “time for universal health care” had come. Again, in response to the October 18^th, 2007 President Bush veto on expansion of SCHIP, Obama claimed, “I will sign a universal health care bill into law by the end of my first term that will cover every American and cut costs more dramatically than any other plan offered by a candidate in this race.” These statements for more radical action seem to have been left by the way-side in favor of a more market-driven approach. Regardless of what the next president will indeed strive to do to ensure more coverage and lower costs, neither plan proposes a comprehensive and bold solution to the health care coverage crisis. The remainder of this paper will discuss the main shortcoming of both candidates’ proposals, and a possible resolution to solve the American health insurance addiction.

Many of the reports and articles cited in the discussion thus far, while highlighting the advances that the candidates could make to the health care crisis, they state clearly that both proposals have deep shortcomings. The most disturbing of these critiques is that while both plan’s advocate and demand health care for every American, neither reach that goal. The Urban Institute report states that Obama’s plan would leave, “6 percent of non-elderly US residents without insurance,” and even less-impressive McCain would, “increase coverage among the currently uninsured through the non-group market but reduce the number already covered by employers, leaving about the same number of people uninsured.” The Economist magazine also concludes in an recent article that, “With Mr Obama’s, the big unknown is how much it will really cost to reach near-universal coverage, while the uncertainty about Mr McCain’s strategy to tackle costs is whether it will do much to expand coverage.” While emphasizing costs, the Economist restates that, again, neither candidate seems able to fulfill the claim of covering all Americans. Obama’s increased to access to plans through the NHIE, and McCain’s willingness to hand over to state government to fate of those considered high-risk will not provide for every American.

Other commentary has suggested a combination of the two proposals. This still falls short of offering coverage to every American. The Health Affairs Journal states that combining the widening of the insurance market and offering a creative mix of tax credit and incentives would be more successful. However, this proposal does not address the combination of plans from the perspective of covering everyone, and only recommends the cutting of health care costs.

Although offering coverage for all is an ambitious task, it is not impossible. As practiced in other post-industrial and market driven economies in Europe, universal health care is successful in providing complete coverage at manageable costs, which is more than what either candidate is currently offering. The United Kingdom, through the National Health Service, established in 1948, provides an equal level of care to all citizens and visitors, while not banning private care options. This service, provided for out of public funds, aims to offer health care, “that meets the needs of everyone, that (is) free at the point of delivery, and that (is) based on clinical need, not ability to pay.” Alternatively, Germany provides care under the principle of solidarity, meaning that all have access to care, using insurance companies and public funds. The guiding concept behind the principle of solidarity in health care is that high-income Germans pay more, subsidizing the cost of care for the poor.

There are many more examples of coverage offered as a right and duty to citizens in Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands. Due to the restrictions of this paper further investigation is required into what prevents the US from moving closer to this system. Many political and fiscal divides stand in the way of offering this level of coverage. However, it is clear that the current health care crisis afflicting the US will not be resolved by either candidate, nor by the giant insurance and drug companies that keep the current system afloat through providing care on basis of profit and qualifying health conditions.

World Pieces

2008-09-12T17:13:00.000+01:00

There are many ideologies, slogans, and proposals thrown around during an election season. These often amount to fillers ranging from accusations about proper placement of lipstick on certain animals, to matters of experience in foreign policy. Unfortunately, a considerable portion of these talking points distract and defer our attention away from the more consequential and important matters.

You may ask, "Chris, what are these more important issues, surely they cannot be more important than the factual and fundamental issues that the media raises?" Well, I am sorry to tell you that they are more important. Media bias and distraction aside, these important issues could not be put so succinctly by me, so I will let someone of more eloquence speak, Franklin D. Roosevelt-

"Unless the peace that follows recognizes that the whole world is one neighborhood and does justice to the whole human race, the germs of another world war will remain as a constant threat to mankind." [from an address to White House Correspondents' Association, Washington, D.C., February 12, 1943.]

One world, one neighborhood. These words were spoken during the height of WWII. Lofty as it is the goal of attaining a more sustainable, peaceful, and just world should be the goal. The current Republican candidate would have us continue to use foreign policy determined by 'national interests', or 'national security interests'. Does this support what FDR is warning us in the midst of the World's most vicious war? But again don't take it from me, lets hear it from the 'Original Maverick'-

"The path to an enduring peace lies in a clear-eyed pursuit of our national interest that does not accede to autocratic trends." (Italics added, speech given at the Hoover Institute, May 2008.)

and...

"The global war on terrorism, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, threats from rogue states like Iran and North Korea, and the rise of potential strategic competitors like China and Russia mean that America requires a larger and more capable military to protect our country's vital interests and deter challenges to our security." (Italics added, JohnMcCain2008.com.)

He also speaks of a "League of democracies", that apparently would not "supplant the United Nations", but perform the same functions. Why compete with the US created UN? Because, for McCain, it would seem easier to lead like-minded aggressive nations than work with, comprise and cooperate, with the nations of the world as represented at the UN. (Quotes from JohnMcCain2008.com.)

In an every increasingly global world, the US cannot afford to follow the failed policies of preventative wars and "strong" militarist chauvinism. A way must be found to cooperate and find a path to global justice with our neighbors, not by going against them. Foreign policy dictated by national interests will only lead down the path to open-ended conflict, as seen in the current war with Iraq.

My choice in the title for this blog is, hopefully, now obvious- these failed policies only lead to a world in pieces, not a path to world peace.

Remember without conversation, life goes nowhere...
Also, if you have not seen it already check out the BBC documentary on the right-hand side of the Blog, entitled the "Power of Nightmares".

Postcards from Heaven- Part 2

2008-09-01T19:17:00.000+01:00

A trip to heaven would not have been complete without family. And that was pretty much what our whole trip was about- making it the best trip yet! The pinnicle of our adventure was to see Andrew and Kiera sealed in the temple, the tenderness and beauty of the moment was such a blessing to be a part of. It truly made me grateful for my own little famliy, and my larger family of which I am proud to be a part.

We are so blessed to the gospel in our lives which serves to enrich and fortify these wonderful relationships. I hope we can you all again soon!

Postcards from Heaven- Part 1

2008-08-17T22:05:00.000+01:00

In the spirit of me not wanting to let the weather ruin our holiday, I took a willing bunch of followers down to the cold beach, amdist cloudy skies. Our plan was simple- run down to the water, get wet and run back. BUT, as you can see it ended up being a little more difficult than that. The tide was out, the wind was blowing, and the temperature was about 50 F, and after about five minutes of running we walked the rest of the way.

We still managed to get wet, despite another traditional English summer.

Two Criminals, One Crime.

2008-07-26T02:26:00.000+01:00

A forest of obstacles stand in the way of us doing something about atrocities that occur in foreign countries. Many of us would consider the crimes of the WWII Nazi regime a relict of inhumanity confined to the past. Further still, modern ‘crimes against humanity’ often seem insignificant when comparing the numbers of victims 'purified', or 'cleansed' during that of the Holocaust. In the West we often attribute the genocides of the twentieth century to tribal hatreds or long standing ethnic feuds, the consequences of which seem inevitable and violent. Such was the case of the Western perception of the Bosnian conflict and the Rwandan violence of the early 1990s. Close and careful study of the tragedies yields over-whelming evidence that the 'ethnic' killings were spurred by a smaller group of fanatical and sadistic political actors. Sadly, nothing was done by those who had power when opportunity presented itself to intervene or end the killing.

However, today these misconceptions and tragedies continue to perpetuate. For the last five years in the country of Sudan, within Africa, in the Darfur region (an area the size of France), a campaign of government funded and supported displacement and murder has carried on unfettered by the world at large. The African tribes traditionally occupying this area have been bombed out of their grass-hut villages by attack helicopters, their women stripped of their dignity, their property looted, leaving their lives shattered. Responsible for these crimes are a mixture of government soldiers, local Janjaweed (meaning a ‘devil on horseback’) militia, and other government sponsored and armed groups. Also complicit in these atrocities is the Chinese government, Sudan's main investor in oil, and supplier of military goods.

There is a small glimmer of light at the end of this tunnel of horror. The International Criminal Court, or ICC, has recently indicted Sudan's President Omar Al-Bashir for war crimes against the people of Darfur. The ICC prosecution states that, "evidence shows that al-Bashir masterminded and implemented a plan to destroy in substantial part the Fur, Masalit and Zaghawa groups.... His alibi was a 'counterinsurgency'. His intent was genocide".

Turning back the hands of time of the Bosnian conflict of the early 1990s, the ICC also indicted the leader of the genocidal campaign against Bosnians. Radovan Karadzic, the leader of the Bosnian-Serb forces, permitted and likely authorized the killing of thousands in Srebrenica and Sarajevo, also the using of UN peacekeepers as body-shields during the conflict. After negotiating peace with his enemies, Karadzic went into hiding and remained there until this last month when he was at last captured by Serbian forces. Karadzic is now standing before the ICC to meet the measure of justice metered out to him by the international community. It is clear that even after fifteen years criminals of this magnitude cannot hide from what they have done.

It is questioned by some how effective the charges against Al-Bashir will be, or even the current case against Karadzic. Will the world's powers back this search for justice? One thing is certain- inasmuch as Karadzic was not able to escape justice, neither shall Bashir. These crimes against humanity concern us all, and demand our attention.

The question thus remains- what will you do to help prevent and punish these crimes?

Please leave your comments and question; conversation is always good…

To learn more about Sudan and Bosnia, and what is possible consider these links:

Mapping Genocide-
www.ushmm.org/maps/projects/darfur

Taking action-
www.savedarfur.org

Interview by Daivd Frost (renowned British TV presenter) with Sudan's President
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFHjRbyO3OM

Also see a recent documentary by Don Cheadle & co entitled "Darfur Now", and the video bar at the bottom of the blog. If you would like to learn more about the aftermath of the Bosnian conflict let me know and I can send you a recent essay about the Dayton Accords.

Helium shortage...

2008-06-26T04:12:00.000+01:00

We first learnt about this pending disaster when Karin went to fill up a few helium balloons for my 26th birthday party. Too old for balloons you say? Never, says I! Anyways, Karin went ahead and purchased the balloons regardless of the party store worker's inquisition into our complicity in worsening the shortage.

Not only did we contribute to the shortage, but we had a good laugh doing it!

Fatherhood: Reflections of a Rookie

2008-06-16T04:33:00.000+01:00

Inevitably, not because I am in high demand, as I new Father I spoke in Church this last Father's Day. It was great to think about the meager lesson I gave learnt in the last few weeks. One thing is for certain being Arthur's Dad is fantastic!

Time has moved on from our time visiting Arthur in the Intensive Care Unit, we are now in our new home in South Salt Lake. He is smiling, gurgling, and responding to play time and interaction. We even started reading his first book together- Treasure Island.

Life will continue on, and no doubt he will keep getting bigger, but so will my heart.

Another, new chapter...

2008-05-24T06:10:00.000+01:00

It has seemed clear to me since we found out Karin was pregnant that life would be more fluid than I expected. Nine months flew like a banshee in the wind, with Arthur's arrival coming even faster. From the first time that my eyes set upon him, I realised that he only going to get bigger (and perhaps more expensive); but also that I love him more than I could express in words.

Since I am new at this whole 'blog' thing, I will stop whilst I am ahead and continue later when I have some more to say...