When these United States first uttered the words “We the People” it had a slightly different ring to it. That moment in time was dominated by white males, so “We the People” meant basically a bunch of middle to upper class white males who had similar religious backgrounds (or, at the very least had religion at all).
Such is not the case for the modern day “we”. We are now, black, white, red, male, female, Baptist, Catholic, Mormon, atheist, American decent, African decent, Mexican decent, etc... We are now so diverse and cover such a broad spectrum of ages, genders, races, religious beliefs and income levels that there can be no continuity among us. So, where did “We the People” go?
While “we” were busy fussing among ourselves over petty problems and difference (which by the way, are what make America, well America) The original “we”, the upper income, white male was busy buying political votes that would set his company up financially. And who was he buying these votes from? Well by George he was buying them from other upper income white males that we put in control of our country.
If we ever hope to have a “We the People” that actually means anything again, we have to start seeing it in our government. Sure, sure there are a few Hispanics, a few African Americans, a few women….but until the congress, house and senate are as equally diverse as our actual country is…..you can guess how they'll vote.
What can “we” do about it? Well, hmm, let me think, I think you can VOTE for who you think best represents you and your community. White males are not the majority any more, so why are they representing the majority? I think that's because their buddies that own the big companies have enough money to help buy them seats in whatever arena they are interested in. How do they do that? Advertising, money to tour the country, to donate to other causes that will support them, the list goes on. And guess what, we let them do it, then sit around complaining that the guy we elected doesn't think like us.
I am a 40 something whit female, and I will follow my heart in the coming elections. I will vote the vote that's good for me and not the popular vote. I will listen to the speeches, and learn about their backgrounds. The internet has become a powerful weapon in the middle class to poor hopeful candidate's arsenal. It does not cost a thing to have a presidential “Myspace” or “Facebook” and Youtube will play whatever video they send stating their views.
I'm not asking for a tea party (although it might not be a bad idea) just a little initiative. Just spend some time and get to know the players, it is OUR country. I wouldn't let someone order my meal at a restaurant why would I let them determine the policies and laws of MY country. It's time for “We the People” to stand up and be counted!
When the common person realizes that he with the most money makes all the rules, I really think it will change the way this society conducts it's elections as well as it's candidacy. No longer are there whistle stops and evening chats with those that so desperately seek this "HONOR". Now they just saturate the airwaves untill the money runs out and hope that they spent enough. I really don't believe that our "ELECTED" officials give to squats about the common American, it's all about special interest and big business, thats what finances the continuation of politics.