The bracelet idea...

[TryingToWarnYou]

I just saw this topic today and Im amazed that no one is realizing that this a great way to mark yourself for unfair treatment right out of the box. Its bad enough to be the political underdog, but do we have to advertise?

Those of you that decide to wear the Star of David, er, I mean the bracelet, I hope you will have enough common sense not to come and complain here at DU when you get treated badly by other people (read Repukes). The preceding has been my opinion and my opinion only. Your mileage will vary.

[drdon326]

1. Uhhhh...i'm a little slow here.....

which specific bracelet are YOU talking about (link ?)


and how does the tar of david fit in?

[TryingToWarnYou]

5. Link

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=104&topic_id=2598684&mesg_id=2598684

I was equating the bracelets to wearing a Star of David by the Jews. Its a great way to say "Hey, look at me! Are you a repuke? Good! Feel free to treat me like shit"

[ClintonTyree]

2. It won't bother me............

in the least. I had nothing to do with unleashing this monster on the world and I'm PROUD of that fact. I don't care if someone gives me a ration of shit for it. I didn't vote for the dumb fuck and I want everyone to know it. And if I DO come here to complain feel free to put me on ignore.

[TryingToWarnYou]

7. You can always say "Dont blame me I voted for Kerry"

I just think the bracelet idea is silly.. You are marking yourself as a target.

I guess though its no different than putting bumper stickers all over your car or a sign in your yard. Equal to that at least. Carry on.

[RegexReader]

120. Where the h#!! did all the bumper stickers go?

I think mine is the only one that withstood the morning dew on 03Nov. Seems that all the rest washed away that night. If they're not willing to leave on a bumper sticker, what chance do you think that anyone is going to buy a bracelet to wear?


RegexReader
$USA =~ s/Republican/Democrat/ig;

[Child_Of_Isis]

3. God forbid we do anything to make the repukes

treat us badly ;-)

[TryingToWarnYou]

20. I understand your point, but...

Why say "thank you sir, may I have another?"

[kayell]

4. OH NO! You mean they might persecute me??? I'll have to go hide in the

closet now.

NOT

[TryingToWarnYou]

9. No, but walking into the den of lions smeared in bacon grease

is not a good idea either.

I realize everyone is still pissed, but we need to stop making decisions based on emotion.

[Mortos]

12. What is your plan?

I noticed you have posted this fear based warning several times. What would you have us do?

[TryingToWarnYou]

17. Several times?

Nice exaggeration there.

In the original thread and then I realized it might need its own. If you arent the moderator, why do you care?

Do? I dont care what you do. I just thought it was a bad idea to invite confrontation and paint ourselves publicly as underdogs.

[Mortos]

24. How about painting ourselves publicly

as united, un-afraid, motivated, fearless and proud?

[TryingToWarnYou]

32. Great! But I dont think thats going to be accomplished

You may see it as that, but those that oppose you wont.

Like I said earlier, I guess its no different than putting Left leaning stickers on your car or a political sign in your yard.

[kayell]

27. Safety is in numbers.

Showing fear is a great way to get most wild animals to attack.

Going in to hiding allows others to be attacked with impunity - because they are such a *tiny* deviant minority.

[PA Democrat]

38. And hiding in FEAR is not a decision based upon emotion?

So we must be silent about our political views because there are people who would wrongly do us harm because of those views? Yes, let's encourage rule by lawless thugs, by submitting to their bullying.

I refuse to be intimidated. I refuse to be silenced. If you are afraid to voice your political convictions by wearing a simple bracelet, how the hell do you expect to win another election? By cowering in fear?

[TryingToWarnYou]

45. I never said go hide in fear...

So we must be silent about our political views because there are people who would wrongly do us harm because of those views? Yes, let's encourage rule by lawless thugs, by submitting to their bullying.

I refuse to be intimidated. I refuse to be silenced. If you are afraid to voice your political convictions by wearing a simple bracelet, how the hell do you expect to win another election? By cowering in fear?

The braclet, yard sign, bumper sticker etc. is not a talisman against assholes. Voicing my political conviction is NOT going to win an election either. If you believe that the more you wear a button, the better your chances, then you have some serious wake up coming. We are going to have to field stronger candidates that are willing to stand up for themselves as well as for the ideals of the party they represent. For example, in MY OPINION, Kerry did not fight back hard enough or fast enough against the Swift liars. That cost him thousands, if not more, votes. I also believe he gave up too fast. I have lost a lot of faith in the Dems at this point. Im probably going to just go "I" from here on out until we get a spine implant.

You see the bracelet thing as "standing up", I see it as asking to get kicked and just another form of a martyrs brigade. I watched as so many people cried about having K/E signs stolen from their yards. Well, fuck, put them in the windows. People still see them and you dont get them stolen. Dont set yourself up.

[PA Democrat]

70. Please read the contradictions in what you say

Voicing my political conviction is NOT going to win an election either.

Please reveal to us your magical formula for winning an election if voicing your political convictions is not going to do it. BTW, both my husband and I DID sway voters by voicing our "political convictions", and we didn't get beat up by anyone in the process.

Im probably going to just go "I" from here on out until we get a spine implant.

One man alone cannot win an election. You can blame Kerry, but you also have to ask if YOU did enough to support your candidate. If you do not believe that "voicing your opinion" will make a difference or are too afraid to wear an outward sign of your political convictions, how can you accuse others of needing a "spine implant"?

I worked my ass off for the Kerry campaign. I was the one who made thousands of phone calls to schedule the people to man the phone banks, do the canvassing, work the GOTV effort. The thousands of volunteers that worked with our county's Kerry campaign were not spineless, nor were they martyrs. And I'll bet most of them are not going to cut and run and change their party affiliation because Kerry lost. Because in the long run, it is OUR party and it is up to US to fix it.

[TryingToWarnYou]

75. I see your points.

I see my voice (an individuals voice) as a very small thing. The DNC and the Kerry campaign didnt do enough, IMO, to convince voters that they were the right choice. This was due to not fighting back hard enough or fast enough regarding the attacks leveled at Kerry early on. I think he lost a lot of ground that he never got back.

I respect the hell out of anyone that actually worked this campaign, like you. That said, Im not going to take any of the blame as it isnt mine to take. I worked like hell on my repuke family to get them to change their minds and I actually got my inlaws to vote Kerry. I made the effort that I could.

Do you feel like you wasted a lot of effort when Kerry conceded so early? If it was me, I would have been royally pissed off.

When I say "spineless" Im talking about the lack of Dem leadership and their inability to stand up and not take shit from Bush, his administration or any of the other of dozens of rumormongerers on the web that have caused so much crap for Kerry. I dont recall K/E fighting back against the Swift liars nearly as fast or as much as they should have and in the end, I believe, it cost them many, many votes.

It is OUR party and it is up to us to fix it, so what are the long term plans? Since you worked the campaign, what are the long term plans?

[PA Democrat]

78. We are already planning for the 2006 Senate and House races

We will be meeting in less than 2 weeks to resume the battle.

What will YOU do? Switch parties? THAT should be helpful. :eyes:

[TryingToWarnYou]

81. No, I dont *want* to switch parties, but Im not going to

rearrange the deck chairs on the Titanic either.

If the Dems stop fighting for me, what do I owe them? My loyalty? I dont think so.

[PA Democrat]

99. Give me a break! "If the Dems stop fighting for me"???????

WE are the Dems. It's up to US to change our party, and the best place to begin is on the local level.

Jeez, and you have the nerve to accuse others of playing the victim.

[TryingToWarnYou]

106. Im no victim.

Wow, way to jump to conclusions!

[PA Democrat]

107. I'm not jumping to conclusions

You said, "If the Dems stop fighting for me, what do I owe them?" It's all about **YOU**, isn't it?

You admitted to not volunteering to working on the campaign and then bitch and moan about about the third person "Dems" not fighting for you. If that's not victimhood, I don't know what else is.

[Mortos]

6. I am sick of the fear here

If you don't do something, if you don't take a stand, you deserve what you get. I don't give a rat's ass if people know who I am or how I vote. I don't care if people know what causes I support or who I oppose. It is your attitude that has caused this entire party to be diminished and marginalized.

Our inablility to stand up to the bullies on the other side and fight has given them the opportunity to define us as wimps and cowards. Titles we deserve if we don't fight back.

Stand up and fight or sit down and shut up. If someone doesn't get this bracelet thing started pretty soon, I am going to do it myself.

Anyone who is interested in treating me badly had better be prepared for an unkind response.

My name is Steven J. Vincent and I am not afraid.

[TryingToWarnYou]

13. My fault?

No, its not my fault. Mark yourself as a target, who cares?

You make it sound like this is the *only* way you can make a difference or "fight back". Its not, but its got that emotional appeal that has also defined our party for a long time...

[Lancer]

15. I agree, Mortos

I have been wearing a Guatemalan Friendship Bracelet, a.k.a. the "Bill Clinton thread bracelet" for a month or more. It's another way of expressing similar thoughts.

They are a Hindi custom, known as "auspicious thread" bracelets. But they are made in many countries, and are meant to signify unity and harmony. You are supposed to have someone else tie yours on for you, and wear it 'til it falls off.

http://www.folkart.com/marco/friendship.htm

I ordered 6 but received 7. They came in less than a week.

[Kukesa]

103. I'll stand with you, Mortos.

And so will the majority of my (former) Ohio Women for Kerry group.

We're meeting on Tuesday to see WHAT ELSE we can do.

I'll be they'll buy some bracelets.

[txindy]

113. I like the way you think, Steven

:toast:

I can't wait to wear a "Democracy" bracelet. My two boys are looking forward to them, as well. I'm more afraid of being the same than of being different, especially when the current 'difference' is so very wrong.

[MoJoWorkin]

8. Be afraid, be very afraid--is that your message?

I would be PROUD to wear the bracelet. Just as I was PROUD to stand on the street corners with my NO WAR IN IRAQ sign--before the Quagmire. GEEZ

I recently read a quote from someone that said:

Better to die standing, than to live on your knees...from Zapata, I think

[MoJoWorkin]

21. I forgot to say that I live and protested in Ashcroft's home

town in ULTRA Conservative SW MO. Sure, we had obscenities hurled at us, and one person tried to open his car door and sideswipe us, but that is the price one pays for freedom. We also had a lot of horns honking at us in support, as some of our signs read honk your horn for peace.
It does, indeed, work both ways, and I believe it is well worth the effort to bind us together in this cause.

[Blue Gardener]

10. What kind of unfair treatment?

They can't fire me from my job for wearing a bracelet.
I still have to served at restaurants, waited on at the store, let into the movies, drive a car, make house payments, pay my taxes, and everything else involved in daily life.
What exactly do you think is going to happen to me for wearing a bracelet?
If there are people that don't like me for wearing it, that's okay. They aren't people I want to be around anyway.

[TryingToWarnYou]

16. Really?

They can't fire me from my job for wearing a bracelet.

Really? They can fire you for any number of things. Lets say the boss says its upsetting some of his customers...

I still have to served at restaurants, waited on at the store, let into the movies, drive a car, make house payments, pay my taxes, and everything else involved in daily life.

Yes, but the bracelet identifies you and says "serve me slowly", "spit in my food for no other reason" "ignore my need for service" etc. If you want to make a stand, there a million other ways of doing it that do not specifically identify you.

What exactly do you think is going to happen to me for wearing a bracelet?

Considering gays have been attacked for wearing identifying colors etc., do the math.

If there are people that don't like me for wearing it, that's okay. They aren't people I want to be around anyway.

Agreed, but its akin to walking into a room and starting a political discussion with everyone at the same time. Yes, you will have supporters, but you will also have enemies. Immediately. Why put yourself in that position? I guess I just dont see it.

[Blue Gardener]

23. Because sometimes you just have to stand up for yourself

And I work in a union plant, so no, they can't fire me for wearing a bracelet.

[TryingToWarnYou]

33. Lucky you...

Many of us dont have that luxury.

[Dzimbowicz]

11. There are pros and cons to the bracelet idea...

I wear a membership pin everyday for my veterans group (Veterans for Peace). The pin is in the shape of an old-style helmet, black in color, superimposed with a white dove carrying an olive branch. Since I live in South Carolina, many of my co-workers think it is a christian symbol and say nothing, or they complement me on outwardly displaying my faith courageously (They think they are the ones under attack by godless liberals!). When I tell them what it actually represents, they either walk away and avoid me or they call me a coward, traitor, hypocrite, etc.

At work last week (I am a public school teacher) my principal asked me what the pin was, so I told him. I also said that I would remove it if he wished. He is a retired Marine and told me that he supported my position that veterans should work for peace and gave me permission to continue wearing it, even at school where teachers are not allowed to be openly political. He said that if certain teachers were allowed to wear their WWJD regalia, I could wear my VFP pin.

On the positive side, the bracelets will let the other side know that there is opposition to them (and their policies) and that this country is still a democracy, or at least is supposed to be. I agree with you that some will receive unfair treatment and even harassment, especially if one resides in a red state such as I. But the veteran in me (USMC) makes me want to stand and resist regardless of how much abuse may result.

This is only my opinion.

[Coyote_Bandit]

14. Too Late

I live in crazy f*cking JOklahoma. I'm unemployed. I've had a Kerry sign in my yard for months. I've had prospective employers inquire about my political persuasion. And a couple of fundies told me yesterday that they were worried about my soul. Why? Because I didn't drink their kool-aid.

It doesn't matter whether or not I wear a bracelet or have a sign in my yard. Bigots always label and condemn those who are different than what they require. Here all that requires is a questioning and inquiring mind.

[Mortos]

55. Hello

fellow Okie. :0

[PittLib]

18. Pathetic. Really ... pathetic. nt

[TryingToWarnYou]

19. whats pathetic is going to the trouble to post and then not saying a word

[Mortos]

22. From your alias "TryingToWarnYou"

to your inserting fear into an otherwise uplifting idea, you goal seems to be sowing seeds of doubt and intimidation against people here. You know that "they" can find out who you are even though you have put up an elaborate wall of secrecy by using an alias. Ever heard of IP? Do you think the US Government, especially this one, has any qualms about investigating it's own citizens? That is what we are fighting against.

If I were as afraid as you seem to be, I wouldn't post in an undergound forum. I would go hide in my home, never mention politics and even change my political affiliation so "they" won't know.

Fuck that. I'm here. I'm Demcratic. Get used to it (to modify a slogan from my gay friends).

I am Steven J. Vincent. Please freepers don't hurt me......

[kayell]

31. TTWY has a long history here of spreading deconstructive FEAR

almost as alarming as Cheney. Fear of the type intended to immobilize, rather than caution about the real problems we face combined with constructive plans to combat them. Draw your own conclusions.

[TryingToWarnYou]

35. I have a conclusion for you...

I have come to the conclusion that you are a liar. If I had a "long history of spreading deconstructive fear" do you honestly think I would still be here? Use your brain next time.

Im not going to sit here or on any forum and circle jerk you just to make you feel better. I will tell the truth as I see it, always. If that is painful for you, Im sorry. If you dont like it, again, Im sorry. If you dont agree with me, oh well. And if you do agree, then thats ok too. Im not here to make lifelong friends. Im very worried about the direction of our nation and I find an awful lot of really intelligent people with some very good ideas here. This bracelet thing, however, is not one of them. Again, like I said before, this is strictly my opinion.

[kayell]

40. So what exactly are your positive plans for resistance? While safe and

sound in our hidey-holes of course.

[TryingToWarnYou]

46. Please..

You are intentionally missing my point, or ignoring it.

If you want to be a professional victim, thats your choice, but I would prefer trying to make a difference in ways that really count. Wear a bracelet for me if you really think it will matter.

[jefferson_dem]

91. No shit. Folks shouldn't fall for this trollish poster's pathetic bait.

Make myself "a target" because i choose to stand up and publicly advertise what i believe in. Please. A target for fucking what? What should we be afraid of? I welcome confrontations with numskull freepers who wish to "discuss" matters of politics and life.

[TryingToWarnYou]

97. Bait? point me to the list of approved topics or STFU.

Thanks

[jefferson_dem]

101. Did I say you should only post "approved of" topics?

Or that you are not entitled to your "opinions?"

Post what you wish, and i will call things as i see them.

Thanks.

[desi]

34. It will happen Mortos

It HAS to happen. I suggested "Be Safe..Be Strong" as the words on the bracelet. Those were the words that Kristen Breitweiser wrote on an extra ticket I asked her to sign for me at The Fresh Start Kerry Rally in Cleveland election eve. I will stay abreast of your work on this issue. Orlando "desi" Sanchez is my name and I will not hide, nor cower on bended knee for fear of radical right wing threats or intimidation. BE SAFE...BE STRONG..

(edit to fix brackets)

[TryingToWarnYou]

39. You have no clue where my name came from or why. Speculation makes you.

look ignorant.

Im not afraid of anything. You have no clue about me, my views or anything. I made a suggestion and stated UP FRONT that it was my opinion. Im sorry if MY OPINION is wrong /sarcasm.

[PittLib]

26. I did say a word. Should I repeat it?

Do you think the people here are stupid? Do you think liberals are stupid? If you aren't comfortable wearing the bracelet, then don't buy it. Jesus Christ on a cracker ... what are you really warning us of? What is the difference between that and a Kerry/Edwards button? And "political underdog"? Not buying that for one minute. I'm not trying to be a jerk, but c'mon ... I don't know where you live, but frankly I hope it'll attract those I might want to talk to while keeping repukes at bay. I'm not ashamed to be a liberal.

[TryingToWarnYou]

43. I guess you didnt read my other posts.

I said it was no different than a yard sign, bumper sticker etc.

I consider myself a Liberal. Why on Earth would you think I believe them to be stupid? As for the people here, they are the reason I come back every day. Ive seen more intelligence in one post here than I have for a whole board in other places.

Yes, we are the political underdog. Moreso now than ever. If you dont want to believe that, fine, but we have no power in any area of politics that matters.

I dont know...it seems as if there are people that *want* to be targeted. I just never saw a reason to be overtly in your face with the politics. How is that any different then the Jesus Freaks and their commitment to forcing something upon you?

Im not trying to "warn you" of anything. My name had nothing to do with this thread although some would like to believe that. Only the mods know the story, and they probably dont even remember it as it was a long time ago.

[Tesibria]

25. The Bracelet - coming soon ....

For those who are Proud to be part of the "moral minority" and unafraid ... and all that -- we'll have more details later this week on how to order one.

[in_cog_ni_to]

28. Excellent!

I will buy a bunch of them to share!

[PittLib]

29. Thanks!

Just don't say you haven't been warned... lol.

[Dzimbowicz]

72. Let me know

I'll purchase several.

[Rush1184]

105. Moral Minority

That is the best phrase I have heard for a tag line yet!

[Tesibria]

109. :)) thank you

...t-shirts w/ that on are already available at my cafepress store :) :) :) :)

we gotta TAKE IT BACK!!!

[americanwomanone]

30. I Have Been On This Earth Long Enough

to not let much of anything scare me. I was a child during WW II and remember it ending. I was a teenager and young woman during the 50's and survived that. I have lived and survived a horrible marriage and I sure won't let anyone intimidate me into not wearing a bracelet. And if it is marking me then I am proud. I will never back down from what I believe in and one of those things is equality.

[progressivedancer]

44. I beg to differ

Maybe we view things in a different manner, but to me, there is nothing more degrading and cowardly than falling into the shadows without ever letting your voice be heard. It feels like shit to be me, us nowadays because half of the country wants to go back to the middle ages adn we don't. If these bastards are gonna suppress us, we might as well fight back. I don't care if a bracelet identifies me as their enemy- in the words of half of the country's fucked up president "bring it on."

[TryingToWarnYou]

47. See, thats just it.. IM MAD TOO

Im pissed off too. But Im not going to put on a black armband and fucking mourn our loss which is what this is amounting to. Be part of the pity brigade if you want, but its not going to change anything.

I want to be there to remind the 51%, that when the shit hits the fan, its their fault. I dont need a bracelet to do that.

[americanwomanone]

54. I am not mourning that is not my style. I am focused on making a change

and this bracelet is just MY reminder. I really doubt many people will know what it's all about anyway. Seems a lot of people in this country are pretty clueless.

[TryingToWarnYou]

63. I agree.

I guess Im just fed up with empty meanings and I see this as just another. To you the bracelet is a reminder, but I dont need a reminder of what happened...I have it memorized. It wont change how I am or my political direction. Our party needs help. It needs CPR.

[americanwomanone]

98. CPR would be good!

As far as memorized yes, and I may have to have a lobotomy to get it out!

[alcuno]

36. * encourages cowardice. Remember the ad about what you do

in the polling booth, no one will know about? I'm no coward and neither are most Democrats. Even when you look at the administration and the Congress, The Republicans are big-mouth cowards; few serving in the military, while the Democrats are the exact opposite.

What kind of a nation are we that people are supposed to be afraid of wearing a necklace with a Star of David or a bracelet? A nation of cowards. Just the way they want us to be.

[NYC Liberal]

37. And it's exactly this attitude that

will continue to make us the underdog. "But..but...the Republicans might SAY something!"

Honestly, do you really think I, or most people here, really give a fuck what Republicans have to say? I sure as hell don't. If we don't start taking risks, we won't move ahead. So stop with your fear-mongering.

[kayell]

41. OMG! Those horrible, horrible lib'ruls. They're wearing DEMOCRACY

bracelets now. This proves that they will do ANYTHING!!!!

[TryingToWarnYou]

49. Call them "mourning badges" It sounds better...

Crying for our loss is not showing strength.

[Mortos]

64. We aren't crying

we are fighting back. Showing pride and strength. If you don't see the difference, you... I can't think of anything to say that won't get my post deleted.

Has anyone agreed with you on this?

[TryingToWarnYou]

67. No, no agreements

And Im not looking for any. If you agree, great, if you dont, great.

I dont see how wearing some bracelet is "fighting back", but if it makes you feel better, then have at it. Wear one for me so you fight back doubly hard.

[AgadorSparticus]

119. or don't wear one, go hide, & feel doubly safe for me . GMAFB!

Give me a fucking break!!! orange level alert!! repeat, orange level alert everyone!!! :crazy::crazy:

[kayell]

73. WTF are you talking about. They are a sign of support of DEMOCRACY.

How are the pugs going to effectively go after that exactly?

I know that there is a hell of a lot to be concerned about with the BFEE. I know that they will attempt, and possibly succeed, to install incredibly repressive measures. I'm putting in my application to Canada in case it get as bad as I think it may. I figure I can fight better alive across the border if it comes to that.

But until then I will stand for my beliefs as visibly as I can. There is strength in numbers and visibility. If we do not even have the courage to wear a simple BRACELET, then we have abandoned this country to the fascists without the slightest effort.

I'm not giving up without a fight. That isn't mourning.

[TryingToWarnYou]

76. Im going to fight too.

but in ways that matter. You said it yourself regarding the BFEE.

I see it as mourning in that this idea didnt come around until after we lost the election and everyone is so upset...hell, some guy committed suicide at ground zero because of this. Get motivated for the right reasons, not because of emotion.

[kayell]

84. If you are too afraid to wear a bracelet, how are you going to fight

effectively?

No one is forcing you to wear a bracelet, but it seems counter-productive at best to spread such dire fear about a fucking BRACELET.

Symbols are powerful. Look at the fish symbol as an example. MIA bracelets, AIDS ribbons, ....

[TryingToWarnYou]

88. Again, Im not afraid of anything.

Im not afraid to wear one. I think wearing one is pointless.

There are a million different bracelets and ribbons now for everything imaginable. Another bracelet will surely make an impact. Not.

You dont have to agree with me on my opinion.

[kayell]

92. In your own words -

"I just saw this topic today and Im amazed that no one is realizing that this a great way to mark yourself for unfair treatment right out of the box. Its bad enough to be the political underdog, but do we have to advertise?

Those of you that decide to wear the Star of David, er, I mean the bracelet, I hope you will have enough common sense not to come and complain here at DU when you get treated badly by other people (read Repukes). The preceding has been my opinion and my opinion only. Your mileage will vary."

This is a FEAR message. Your excuses about pointlessness and mourning and so forth came much later when people called you on fear mongering.

I think I've seen this technique of message switching before. Hmm, where could it have been?

[TryingToWarnYou]

95. Call it whatever your little heart desires

I never said "be afraid" or anything like that.

My point, which you keep missing, is that when you mark your car, your yard, yourself etc. with various messages, do not be surprised when you get fucked with. Additionally, In my original post, I saw no need to go into every explanation of my view for every possible way it could be interpreted. I expected some folks to understand my words as written. If you think its a fear message, fine, wear your bracelet and dont be afraid.

[TryingToWarnYou]

48. Wearing a bracelet changes nothing.

On the flip side, do you honestly think that a bracelet is going to empower you?

I hate to break it to you, but WE, the people, are not the problem with the Democrats. Our leadership sucks. Kerry bailed on us and even Clinton is taking shit now.

I refuse to wear some kind of mourning badge. Im going to keep pushing like nothing happened even though changes are coming.

[NYC Liberal]

57. It's a sign of solidarity with one another.

And it's not the bracelet that will empower us - it's the sight of other people wearing it that will. The knowledge that others are fighting, too.

So stop trying to scare those who want to wear it. And, yes, you are trying to scare, telling people they're going to be attacked and be treated like shit -- we DON'T CARE! Sometimes you have to take a stand and take risks.

You say: "I refuse to wear some kind of mourning badge. Im going to keep pushing like nothing happened even though changes are coming."

But then you act like we shouldn't do anything that might cause Republicans to get offended or mad. Well, which is it?

[TryingToWarnYou]

66. What it is is that you missed my point.

Get angry, take a stand great! But lets do something that really matters.

If you think Im fearmongering, fine. I dont give a shit. Im not going to sit here and blow sunshine up your skirt when I think otherwise.

As for scaring people, I hardly think some anonymous guy on the web (me) is going to scare anyone. You are giving me far too much credit.

[NYC Liberal]

71. I get your point just fine.

But the bracelet is just a SYMBOL that we ARE FIGHTING! It's not all we're doing, it's showing what we're doing

And when I said fearmongering, I mean unncessary fearmongering. No, you won't scare anyone, but it seems like you're trying to.

[TryingToWarnYou]

77. I agree that its a symbol

I dont think anyone really believes that we have given up.

[NYC Liberal]

80. It'll give those fighting a bit more momentum, though.

Just like when we'd see Kerry stickers on cars or people wearing Kerry buttons.

[TryingToWarnYou]

83. Agreed and I see the point

you and others are making. Im not trying to dissuade anyone from wearing the bracelets, I just think its a bad idea to advertise. This is strictly my opinion and Ive read enough horror stories here to make me wonder why nobody else has thought of the potential problems.

[NYC Liberal]

87. We have, we're just willing to take the risk.

I for one won't let any Republican thug dictate how I act and what I wear.

[TryingToWarnYou]

90. Me either

but when you go looking for trouble, dont be surprised when you find it.

Pick your battles.

[coreystone]

42. Good Morning, I still have my Kerry-Edwards Sticker on my car,

I am not afraid, and my name is Eric Jon Peterson. Any other questions about the bracelets???

:dem:

[melv]

50. it does not represent mourning

it represents solidarity. At least it will to me. I'm tired of feeling all alone in my red state!


sol·i·dar·i·ty ( P )
n.

A union of interests, purposes, or sympathies among members of a group; fellowship of responsibilities and interests: “A downtrodden class... will never be able to make an effective protest until it achieves solidarity” (H.G. Wells).

edited to add definition.

[TryingToWarnYou]

51. Good morning to you too

Eric, Im glad you still have your sticker and that you arent afraid.

Good for you.

[RetroLounge]

52. Yes, because being spineless has worked so well for us

so far...

I for one refuse to hide.

"mark yourself for unfair treatment right out of the box"?

Wrong, I mark myself as one pissed off Dem and if the Repug wants to get up in my face, they will see the bracelet up close and personal.

Sorry for your fear.

RL

[TryingToWarnYou]

58. You misunderstood me.

Im not afraid and Im pissed off too.

[Ann Arbor Dem]

53. Why don't we just all cower in fear underneath the covers for the rest...

...of our lives? That's what it seems like you are promoting. You didn't say it explicitly, but that is the sentiment coming across loud and clear. It's like telling gays and lesbians to not use the rainbow icon in public.

We are not afraid. We will not be afraid. And if unfair treatment enters into the picture because of a simple bracelet, bring it on. They won't get away with it.

[TryingToWarnYou]

62. You misunderstood me too.

We are not afraid. We will not be afraid. And if unfair treatment enters into the picture because of a simple bracelet, bring it on. They won't get away with it.

Of course they will. They have gotten away with much worse. Thats my point and setting yourself up for it isnt really standing up for anything, its simply asking to be fucked with.

What Im promoting (and thanks for not assuming) is that we make changes that really matter. Wearing mourning bracelets (and thats what they appear to be to me anyway) is not going to accomplish anything. The entire nation is saturated in bracelets and ribbons now for every cause imaginable.

Im pissed off that we lost and Im angry that Kerry conceded so quickly. I just see the bracelet as some kind of security blanket, and I for one, dont need that.

[Ann Arbor Dem]

74. I didn't misunderstand what you said, but if your intention doesn't match

the words then maybe it should be articulated more clearly. The bracelets are not mourning bracelets...well maybe they are if one has a defeatist bent.

If you see wearing a bracelet as a type of security blanket, don't wear one. To castigate others or to try to bring them down because they believe the bracelets are a useful symbol only serves as an attempt to divide blue people. Is that what your intention? I don't really think so.

We are not setting ourselves up, as you stated. That is another defeatist concept.

[TryingToWarnYou]

79. No, I want folks to just think first...

Why are they doing it...is it because they are upset or is it for unity or what? Seems like, and this is just the impression I get, someone gets an idea and it sounds good or appeals to someones feelings and they run with it like Jesse Owens.

My only point in all this is that IN MY OPINION I think its a bad idea to mark yourself. I dont believe in living in fear, but nor do I think its a great idea to advertise your convictions and not expect trouble.

[Ann Arbor Dem]

85. Obviously people have thought about this...you don't seem to be....

giving the folks on DU credit for having done that.

Of course, it's your opinion. And it's other people's opinion that the bracelet is a visible symbol of solidarity. You aren't going to change anyone's mind with what comes across as a Chicken Little mentality.

If you don't want to "mark yourself"...don't. Not being public with one's convictions goes against what most DU'ers believe.

If it's fear that makes you believe that holding one's convictions public will bring trouble, then more power to you. You say it's not, but it comes across as fear. Stay as invisible as you are comfortable.

But why are you trying to convince others that this is the *right* or *appropriate* way to behave? Suppose no one had publically stood up for civil rights or women's rights. Where would we be now?

[TryingToWarnYou]

93. Excellent points.

I just see this whole thing differently than most here. Viva le difference.

Im not trying to convince others of anything, I was just voicing my view just like everyone else does.

Everyone that knows me in real life knows that I am a die hard liberal..Ive never had to advertise on my car, or in my yard or on my wrist. Thats not fear, thats a choice.

[Ann Arbor Dem]

116. I understand what you are saying....

....that your choice is not fear-based, but you aren't giving people credit for their choices either. You continue to pound home your point that wearing a bracelet is something people should not do because of possible repercussions. That comes across as being based in some type of fear. It feels like you are trying to convince others to follow your lead, whether that is your intention or not.

[ElsewheresDaughter]

56. "Waxahatchiepascagoola"??? sniff sniff

[TryingToWarnYou]

59. Uh, no. Im in South Texas.

Why exactly, does it matter?

[ElsewheresDaughter]

60. it doesn't ...south texas went blue...are you a proud liberal?

[TryingToWarnYou]

68. Very much so.

However, my county has always been Red.

[Mortos]

61. TTWY

STFU

[TryingToWarnYou]

69. Mortos

FOAD

[bluedonkey]

65. I live in a red state

I will wear a bracelet and I hope more people here in LA will too.This way I know I'm not alone!

[AnnInLa]

82. I have a nice American Flag lapel pin, which

I wore immediately after 9/11 (when we were all united), but then I stuck it in a drawer after the invasion of Iraq. I intend to start wearing it again, but upside down. Everyone who sees it will point out my mistake in putting it on upside down. I will just look them in the eye and smile. Then I will buy one of your bracelets to show solidarity, not mourning.

[Ann Arbor Dem]

86. I like your idea of the upside down flag pin! SOS for our country...n/t

[AnnInLa]

94. Think of the excitement when meeting someone else

who has on an upside down lapel pin, or a bracelet....the knowing smile, maybe a secret handshake, a code word....LOL

[Ann Arbor Dem]

118. A wink and a smile...... LOL n/t

[LWolf]

89. I don't realize it.

I'm not moved by the colors or slogans suggested so far, but the idea is fine. The bottom line?

AMERICANS CAN NOT CONTINUE TO LIVE IN FEAR. GWB used fear of terrorism to his advantage the last 3 years, and in the election. Refusing to fear; standing up for what is right in the face of fascism is the first line of action to right what is wrong in this country.

Hiding in the crowd accomplishes nothing, imo.

[Coyote_Bandit]

96. Face It

Anytime you take a stand for anything you embrace the possibility of undesirable repercussions and unfair treatment. It is just part of life. Life is not fair - never has been.

People are marked and labelled because of their attitudes, opinions and beliefs more than by what they chose to wear. The issue is one of intolerance and bigotry rather than symbolic expression.

In the "My Name Is" thread I stated:
"I spent seven years studying history, business, poly sci, education and law at Six Flags Over Jesus. Some of my professors and classmates have penned the inspirational tomes of the religious right. They called me a rebel and a troublemaker then. Today, I am committed to fulfilling that vision. I am educated, unemployed and f*cking mad as hell. I will write and I will confront the fallacies of the "christian" agenda."

I live in the middle of crazy red f*cking JOklahoma. My career has already been destroyed. The fundies have informed me that they are worried about my soul because of my political views. Even prospective employers have inquired about my political views.

I will not be afraid. I am responsible for my attitudes, opinions, beliefs and actions. I will not abdicate that responsibility to anyone else. I reject fear. I embrace the power of personal choice, I embrace love, and I embrace sound reasoning.

[TryingToWarnYou]

102. I like your outlook

Anytime you take a stand for anything you embrace the possibility of undesirable repercussions and unfair treatment. It is just part of life. Life is not fair - never has been.

Agreed.

People are marked and labelled because of their attitudes, opinions and beliefs more than by what they chose to wear. The issue is one of intolerance and bigotry rather than symbolic expression.

Exactly, but unfortunately intolerance and bigotry seem to be what 51% of America wants right now. Now, wearing something for instance, allows them to be assholes without ever having to hear you speak an opinion, express a belief or display an attitude.

In the "My Name Is" thread I stated:
"I spent seven years studying history, business, poly sci, education and law at Six Flags Over Jesus. Some of my professors and classmates have penned the inspirational tomes of the religious right. They called me a rebel and a troublemaker then. Today, I am committed to fulfilling that vision. I am educated, unemployed and f*cking mad as hell. I will write and I will confront the fallacies of the "christian" agenda."

This is all great, but I for one have had the lovely experience of having my real life dicked with because of having an opinion and a viewpoint that differed from everyone elses. Again, its about picking your battles. You mention that you are unemployed...thats not an option for me as I am addicted to food, heat, clothing, shelter and other frivolous things.

I live in the middle of crazy red f*cking JOklahoma. My career has already been destroyed. The fundies have informed me that they are worried about my soul because of my political views. Even prospective employers have inquired about my political views.

I live in Texas so I understand your problems. Given the aforementioned statements by you regarding your employer, how is "standing up" going to help you? Seems like you are picking the wrong battle.

I will not be afraid. I am responsible for my attitudes, opinions, beliefs and actions. I will not abdicate that responsibility to anyone else. I reject fear. I embrace the power of personal choice, I embrace love, and I embrace sound reasoning.

More power to you. You are standing up for everything you believe in.

[Coyote_Bandit]

114. Freedom's Just Another Name For Nothing Left to Lose?

You are not alone in being "dicked with because of having an opinion and a viewpoint that differed from everyone elses."

I disagree that 51% of America chose "intolerance and bigotry." That may well be the effect of their choice - but most thought they were choosing morality, or security or prosperity. Certainly that does not mean there are not bigots among us. But it might also suggest that we were not able to portray a positive alternative consistent with their desire for morality, security and prosperity. In the world of advertising, perception is more important than reality. And, with respect to the fundies, faith based choices will be changed for faith based reasons.

I too "am addicted to food, heat, clothing, shelter and other frivolous things." I did not choose unemployment. My lay-off preceeded the presidential primaries. And my change in voter registration to vote in those primaries. Politics was not an issue with my former employer.

As for "standing up" to my employer I'm not sure you have any clue what you are talking about. What I indicated was that prospective employers have inquired about my political views. Regardless of what response I give I think I am justified in taking offense at such an inquiry. It simply is not relevant to my ability to perform the task at hand. To me it is as egregious as inquiring into my religious beliefs, or my nationality, or my race, or my sexual orientation.

Why is it that this whole thread is beginning to remind me of the followng Kristofferson lyric?

"If they deal you down and dirty in a way you don't deserve
You'll feel better if you take it like a man
If you let 'em drive you crazy, boy, they'll shut your business down
Shake it off and get your licks in when you can
'Cause the heart is all that matters in the end"

You don't have to fight with me. Or support me. Really.

[seabeyond]

100. i have yet to have any of the many repugs bother me

maybe because i am in 40's, maybe because i have a bright smile and am kind, maybe because they feel i dont take shit from anyone and will take anyone on with confidence without saying a word.

i have put kerry in many conservatives face, and even after the loss, all the conservaticves i know have been beyond repectful.

i want a black bracelet.

i am not afraid. i have been yelling really really loud for three years, no man is going to tell me to shut up

[alcuno]

104. You can order one here

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=104&topic_id=2621261

[SammyWinstonJack]

108. They've already treated us unfairly

They've ripped the Presidency away from us twice. What more can they do to us that is worse then that? I will wear the bracelet!

[prayin4rain]

110. Dupe.....Sorry :)

[prayin4rain]

111. I don't bow to fascists. eom

[txindy]

112. Thanks for straightening me out.

I was blind, but now I can see. :eyes:

[demodonkey]

115. I do NOT think we are the "minority"!

Was ranting yesterday AM in Post Office in VERY red county of purplish blue PA... 3 Dems outed themselves and joined me! No freeper-types spoke up, either

[seabeyond]

117. this is what bush, media hae to convince us of, this is what we

have to not accept and allow. especially in our own brain. why i continually say, we won that election. the majority in entusiasm worked a lot fo hours and time and energy, at expense of family, loved ones, and self. i sacrificed my body physically, aged two years, and at 43 that isnt good

no we are not the minority, my god, in u.s. we know we are not, in the world we absolutely know we are not...............they are the small handful. i tell friends allow a handful of white males to tell me what i a female is suppose to think feel say do.............fuck that shit