Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight would like to say thank you to people from Cleveland and across the world who have offered support to them. They are extremely grateful for the tremendous outpouring of kindness they have received and wished to put voices and faces to their heartfelt messages with this video.
The women still maintain a strong desire for privacy and ask that everyone continue to respect their wishes in that regard going forward. Thank you.
I wish all the best for these three women and the little girl of one of them.
I heard on the news this morning that the guy charged with this requested visitation with the little girl – since is reported he is the father. The request was denied.
It will be such a long road back to normal, it is amazing how well it has turned out. So many of these stories do not come out with the victims being alive after such a long time.
Interesting article that addresses the mass protests across the world, specifically those in Brazil. The author discusses the financial success that has resulted in forty million new middle class Brazilians and how the numbers of those in extreme poverty has shrunk. Even tho most people are better off than they were the country’s infrastructure is still notoriously bad.
Here’s just a couple of excerpts from the linked piece —
“There’s a basic paradox of economic growth: as people do better, they are often less content, because they expect more. Brazil’s consumer-protection authority has reported that consumer complaints have soared in the past couple of years, a sign that people will no longer tolerate being messed with. Rising prosperity turns people into taxpayers—the number of Brazilians who pay income taxes rose by nearly nine million in the past decade—which has intensified the pressure on the government. Brazilians pay more than a third of their income in taxes.”
“Middle-class agitation isn’t unique to Brazil. In developing countries, a growing middle class is often a crucial agent of political and economic change. In the past few years, middle-class protesters have taken to the streets over issues of education, corruption, and public space in Chile, India, and Turkey, among other countries.
The ranks of the middle class are swelling around the world, especially in Asia, and the O.E.C.D. estimates that there may be almost five billion people in the “global middle class” by 2030—more than twice the current figure. Governments will be under increasing pressure to meet citizens’ demands. Higher expectations don’t guarantee change, but history suggests that the uprisings they lead to can be powerful engines of reform. In the U.S., at the turn of the twentieth century, an anxious middle class—frustrated with government corruption and inefficiency—drove the Progressive movement. The impetus gave us campaign-finance regulations, antitrust laws, food and drug legislation, direct election of senators, and, eventually, women’s suffrage.”
6176, we’ve discussed a ‘revolution’ happening in America’s future. I wondered after reading this article about our country’s crumbling infrastructure, about spoiled Americans who have enjoyed much that is now endangered. Could this all be part of what leads to another revolution in our country? With tea partiers attacking spending that has meant American public services and infrastructure once set the standards world wide, how long will it take to get bad enough that Americans take to the streets?
My thoughts on a revolution are the impoverished, desperate vs. the upper and middle economic classes. Wealth concentration serves to pour gasoline, if you will, on the currently smoldering coals by adding to those who are desperate from the group who no longer enjoy what security and assets they once did. Mix in the growing awareness that upward mobility in this country is a lie for a rapidly growing group of people, and not much of a spark will be needed. Just my opinion.
But…as we were discussing yesterday….. we have many Americans who just don’t care about politics and have tuned out.
So ..what will the tipping point be? Will it take all Tea Party CONs to get into office and start slashing everything to give even more toe h to the big banks and corporates.
Since there has been NO research to determine the answer, isn’t it possible these individual sperm are actually masturbating and pleasuring themselves…
(from the link): “I think we can all agree that life is sacred, and we must do everything we can to ensure that potential life is protected. The anti-choice bill in Texas currently being debated is a great start, but we need to go right to the source: the horrible murder of sperm that occurs during male masturbation.
Some activists would have you believe these are just clumps of cells, but anyone who looks at semen under a microscope can tell you that individual sperm demonstrate purposeful movements. Did you know that we have no actual study that proves sperm can’t feel pain when unnecessarily ejaculated? It’s true! For all we know, these are living organisms that endure excruciating nerve stimulation when exposed outside of the male reproductive system.
There are those who would argue that we are regulating men’s bodies and taking away their freedom to make their own healthcare choices, but as our conservative brethren have pointed out in many a debate on rape culture, men simply can’t control their sexual urges on their own as per the landmark legal reasoning of “boys will be boys.” Therefore, they need help and incentives.”
That young man I was having such a deep discussion the other day also brought up the abortion issue.
He is Catholic – and so he believes life begins at conception and that it is not just a clump of cells, but a baby.
Okay – I can respect his belief and his right to believe that.
But I asked him – if he really wanted to protect life – then why are we not debating about HOW women becaome pregnant and start getting serioius in this country about birth control.
Cathlics – in my opinikon – are being very naive to think that banning all birth control and then sepecting aboritons to be anned is the anser is just plain wrong.
We all know abortions happen whether legal or illegal. Those women who have the money will have safe abortions and those without money will endanger their own lives to get abortions. I don’t know why people are able to ignore something if they choose but it’s the same at in-vitro clinics where the zealots save the blastocysts from research so they can be burned out back where they obviously are able to ignore that happening.
Few ever accused republicans or people who follow religious edicts of being rational.
Case in point – that woman who said she did not care if gays want to get married – she just does not like the fact they want to use the word – marriage.
WTH……
But he – if people are ablre to ignore what the Cathoflic Chruch leaders did when they covered up for the child molesters….these folks can ignore abortiyons are doen everyone – legal or note.
I had a good laugh at the cartoon this morning. For all their screaming and yammering about the Constitution – the Conservative Republicans, Fundy Christians and Tea Party folks have demonstrated they have very little actual knowlege of that Constitution pjamplet they so proudly display.
Let’s not forget – I am a registered Republican – and since Rush Limbaugh thought it was such a great idea for Republicans to registered as Democrats in the primary election – to get certain candidates off the national ballot – Hell, I’ve decided to join Rushie and his Cohorts.
I feell good that Todd Tiarht got off the govenrment teat due to his primary where he lost to Jm Moran.
I’ve read republicans are trying very hard to find ways to break, circumvent, or ignore laws they disagree with in hopes they’ll get to be heard by our conservative-majority SCOTUS. Plus, the issue of abortion is and has always been used by republicans to manipulate their base from a place of ignorance and fear. Abortion is almost the last issue they have that will turn out their rapidly shrinking core.
Can you just imagine how much money has been made by these Pro-Life leaders since Roe v Wade was passed?
I wonder……is this really the motivation of some of these CONS – to keep that Pious, Self-Righteous Golden Goose to lay more golden eggs to put into some – usually white, middle-aged man’s pockets
Sometimes I look around this country and just want to scream.
When did black become white and white become black – except in the cases of racism?
I grew up in the 50’s and 60’s – we had different religions – different views – but we did not seem to have this constant need for people to be right all the time.
I do not remember any one in my hometown that could not go to the doctor. That cannot be siaid today – can it?
I don’t remember the preacher being the wealthiest guy in some gated community. Hell, we did not have gated communities back then.
As for that revolution – let me just say. My son works for a company and he is called out at 3am and generally works until the day’s workload is done – that can be 8pm or 11pm.
Then he is expected to return to work at 3am – if they call him in.
And ….in Kansas….when has the worker ever had rights?
My son takes pride in his work and does a good job – which is probably why they call him in at 3am. The others on the crew routinely refuse.
But yet those thers are still employed and making the same or more than my son.
How the hell is this okay?
My husband and I taught our children to be responsible, hard working and take pride in what you do.
I fear these traits are not what our current country values…….
And don’t get me started on our country’s hypocritical stance on they value families and kids.
How to not make friends, chapter next. Many years ago, before I could no longer take the B.S. flowing from members of the WDTLC, a judge and I were seated at a table with four older members (yes, all white and male). One began ranting about disrespect for the flag, and as he got rolling, the other three were vociferously joining in with their complaints. When a pause was reached, the judge quietly observed that we should be more concerned about the Constitution than the flag. As blood pressures spiked, I added to the fun by noting that when I was sworn into the Air Force, I took an oath to uphold the Constitution, and further noted there was nothing in the oath about the flag. In short order, His Honor and I were alone, and enjoyed the rest of our meal.
I should add my comments were measured and purposeful, as I knew the four chauvinists had availed themselves of various deferments in WWII to avoid military service. Bass turds (h/t to prairiepond).
I find it very telling that those who scream the loudest and try to bully others into thinking they are so damn patriotic are those who never actually served.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I came of age during the Vietnam War. And I don’t blame anyone for getting out of that particular mess.
But……if yoiu’re going to spout how great you I have known personal loss to wars…..adn this is a big pet peeve of mine.
I hate when any politician uses the military as their backdrop for their spewing….and then to learn they themselves never had to serve.
Exhibit A – Rush Limbaugh – Dick Cheney……and many others in the Hen House
Whenever I see some Tea Party folks dressed up like Uncle Sam or wearing the American Flag draped across their fat butt – I just have to scratch my head and think back to what my grandpa used to say…..
If a person has to dress up or scream to get their point across…..then be very careful in believing what you see or hear.
That is one thing about the Far Right – just when you think they could not come up with yet another fanatic contestant for their pissing contest – these folks prove us wrong.
I still remember the look on that Tea Party woman’s face when I said that the Far Right has pushed the Conservative Right side tothe extreme right – that what used to be middle is now considered Left in their view.
Never mind the fact that most o fthese Far RightWingers have turned so far that they can probably kiss their own butts.
They just need to double down on the crazy and make sure their national candidate is ‘conservative’ enough. They’ll be for one candidate until they’re for another — remember last POTUS election they made each person in the clown car their favorite — each was favored until they weren’t. And the republican constituency never missed a lick or even acknowledged they had a previous favorite after they’d moved on to another.
Then, as in the past, after their candidate loses they’ll have as many excuses as they did favorites. Not lessons, just excuses.
I’m a bad bill
I’m a really bad bill
And I’m comin’ after more than your pill
Well it’s from Texas to Ohio
And in North Carolina
It’s a war on women
And a battle for vagina
Sharia isn’t too far away
You better hope and pray that I will
Stay right here as nothing more than a bill
Boy: Gee bill, you sure could be a pain in the uterus for women.
Bill: Well you got that right. Pain in the uterus, ovaries. Hell, when I started, I wasn’t even a bill, I was just a bad idea. But some folks think it’s the 1950s all up in here. If they had their way it’d be the 1850s! They like to call that the good old days. With women barefoot, pregnant, no vote… you know, baby vessels. The way god intended!
I’m a bad bill
I’m a really bad bill
Owning your uterus just gives ’em a thrill
Well now they’ll tell ya how to use it
For how long and how many
They’ll be in charge of your vagina and you know there won’t be any
Decisions that belong to you
Well some hope and pray that they will
Limit rights and instill their god’s will
Boy: Listen to those legislators arguing! Is all that discussion and debate about you?
Bill: If you could even call it a debate. Let me give you the short version, kid: ladies, keep your legs and your mouth shut. They sure as shit aren’t listening to women on this one.
Boy: Women?
Bill: Yeah, women. You know, people. With rights. Whoa! They’re railroading this thing! Now I go to the House of Representatives, and they vote on me.
Boy: If they vote yes, what happens?
Bill: Then we’re one step closer to theocracy.
Boy: Oh no!
Bill: Oh yes!
I’m a bad bill
I’m a really bad bill
And if they vote for me I think I’ll be ill
Well, then I’m off to Rick Perry
You know he wants to sign
I’m red meat for the base
Oops! he must have lost his mind
If he signs me, then I’ll be a law
How I hope and pray Wendy will
Stand up tall so I stay just a bill
Boy: You mean if Wendy Davis filibusters again we can keep you from becoming a law?
Bill: Not likely. And don’t count on a veto. You see right-wing politicians everywhere are coming up with new ways to wage a war on women. This could go to the U.S. Congress and even back to the Supreme Court. I thought we worked this shit out years ago!
That’s why I explain that I will
Be a pain I am still a bad bill
Congressman: He signed you, Bill! Now you’re a law!
PrairiePopulistsAndProgressives.net 
Take a look.
Chart: Almost Every Obama Conspiracy Theory Ever
http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2012/10/chart-obama-conspiracy-theories
Published on Jul 8, 2013
Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight would like to say thank you to people from Cleveland and across the world who have offered support to them. They are extremely grateful for the tremendous outpouring of kindness they have received and wished to put voices and faces to their heartfelt messages with this video.
The women still maintain a strong desire for privacy and ask that everyone continue to respect their wishes in that regard going forward. Thank you.
I wish all the best for these three women and the little girl of one of them.
I heard on the news this morning that the guy charged with this requested visitation with the little girl – since is reported he is the father. The request was denied.
It will be such a long road back to normal, it is amazing how well it has turned out. So many of these stories do not come out with the victims being alive after such a long time.
This is evidence of the innate will to survive – IMHO
I’m happy the media has backed off – and hope they continue to do so.
Interesting article that addresses the mass protests across the world, specifically those in Brazil. The author discusses the financial success that has resulted in forty million new middle class Brazilians and how the numbers of those in extreme poverty has shrunk. Even tho most people are better off than they were the country’s infrastructure is still notoriously bad.
Here’s just a couple of excerpts from the linked piece —
“There’s a basic paradox of economic growth: as people do better, they are often less content, because they expect more. Brazil’s consumer-protection authority has reported that consumer complaints have soared in the past couple of years, a sign that people will no longer tolerate being messed with. Rising prosperity turns people into taxpayers—the number of Brazilians who pay income taxes rose by nearly nine million in the past decade—which has intensified the pressure on the government. Brazilians pay more than a third of their income in taxes.”
“Middle-class agitation isn’t unique to Brazil. In developing countries, a growing middle class is often a crucial agent of political and economic change. In the past few years, middle-class protesters have taken to the streets over issues of education, corruption, and public space in Chile, India, and Turkey, among other countries.
The ranks of the middle class are swelling around the world, especially in Asia, and the O.E.C.D. estimates that there may be almost five billion people in the “global middle class” by 2030—more than twice the current figure. Governments will be under increasing pressure to meet citizens’ demands. Higher expectations don’t guarantee change, but history suggests that the uprisings they lead to can be powerful engines of reform. In the U.S., at the turn of the twentieth century, an anxious middle class—frustrated with government corruption and inefficiency—drove the Progressive movement. The impetus gave us campaign-finance regulations, antitrust laws, food and drug legislation, direct election of senators, and, eventually, women’s suffrage.”
Middle-Class Militants
by James Surowiecki July 8, 2013
http://www.newyorker.com/talk/financial/2013/07/08/130708ta_talk_surowiecki
6176, we’ve discussed a ‘revolution’ happening in America’s future. I wondered after reading this article about our country’s crumbling infrastructure, about spoiled Americans who have enjoyed much that is now endangered. Could this all be part of what leads to another revolution in our country? With tea partiers attacking spending that has meant American public services and infrastructure once set the standards world wide, how long will it take to get bad enough that Americans take to the streets?
My thoughts on a revolution are the impoverished, desperate vs. the upper and middle economic classes. Wealth concentration serves to pour gasoline, if you will, on the currently smoldering coals by adding to those who are desperate from the group who no longer enjoy what security and assets they once did. Mix in the growing awareness that upward mobility in this country is a lie for a rapidly growing group of people, and not much of a spark will be needed. Just my opinion.
But…as we were discussing yesterday….. we have many Americans who just don’t care about politics and have tuned out.
So ..what will the tipping point be? Will it take all Tea Party CONs to get into office and start slashing everything to give even more toe h to the big banks and corporates.
How much more are liviing wages to be slashed?
That’s a great question, one to which I’ve no answer.
Since there has been NO research to determine the answer, isn’t it possible these individual sperm are actually masturbating and pleasuring themselves…
(from the link): “I think we can all agree that life is sacred, and we must do everything we can to ensure that potential life is protected. The anti-choice bill in Texas currently being debated is a great start, but we need to go right to the source: the horrible murder of sperm that occurs during male masturbation.
Some activists would have you believe these are just clumps of cells, but anyone who looks at semen under a microscope can tell you that individual sperm demonstrate purposeful movements. Did you know that we have no actual study that proves sperm can’t feel pain when unnecessarily ejaculated? It’s true! For all we know, these are living organisms that endure excruciating nerve stimulation when exposed outside of the male reproductive system.
There are those who would argue that we are regulating men’s bodies and taking away their freedom to make their own healthcare choices, but as our conservative brethren have pointed out in many a debate on rape culture, men simply can’t control their sexual urges on their own as per the landmark legal reasoning of “boys will be boys.” Therefore, they need help and incentives.”
My Proposal for a Bill That Bans Male Masturbation in Texas
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/charles-clymer/my-proposal-for-a-bill-th_b_3535828.html
What’s good for the goose is good for the gander?
All about protecting life. Has nothing to do with control.
That young man I was having such a deep discussion the other day also brought up the abortion issue.
He is Catholic – and so he believes life begins at conception and that it is not just a clump of cells, but a baby.
Okay – I can respect his belief and his right to believe that.
But I asked him – if he really wanted to protect life – then why are we not debating about HOW women becaome pregnant and start getting serioius in this country about birth control.
Cathlics – in my opinikon – are being very naive to think that banning all birth control and then sepecting aboritons to be anned is the anser is just plain wrong.
We all know abortions happen whether legal or illegal. Those women who have the money will have safe abortions and those without money will endanger their own lives to get abortions. I don’t know why people are able to ignore something if they choose but it’s the same at in-vitro clinics where the zealots save the blastocysts from research so they can be burned out back where they obviously are able to ignore that happening.
Few ever accused republicans or people who follow religious edicts of being rational.
Exactly my point, fnord
Case in point – that woman who said she did not care if gays want to get married – she just does not like the fact they want to use the word – marriage.
WTH……
But he – if people are ablre to ignore what the Cathoflic Chruch leaders did when they covered up for the child molesters….these folks can ignore abortiyons are doen everyone – legal or note.
I had a good laugh at the cartoon this morning. For all their screaming and yammering about the Constitution – the Conservative Republicans, Fundy Christians and Tea Party folks have demonstrated they have very little actual knowlege of that Constitution pjamplet they so proudly display.
Hell, indy, they would have to learn how to read first for that to happen.
Well – these folks do tend to like to rewrite the history books – I guess that just goes along with their ignorance.
Ignorance + arrogance = requirements to be a real Republican nowadays?
Sadly, that seems to be a necessary condition precedent for that “honor”.
Let’s not forget – I am a registered Republican – and since Rush Limbaugh thought it was such a great idea for Republicans to registered as Democrats in the primary election – to get certain candidates off the national ballot – Hell, I’ve decided to join Rushie and his Cohorts.
I feell good that Todd Tiarht got off the govenrment teat due to his primary where he lost to Jm Moran.
I’ve read republicans are trying very hard to find ways to break, circumvent, or ignore laws they disagree with in hopes they’ll get to be heard by our conservative-majority SCOTUS. Plus, the issue of abortion is and has always been used by republicans to manipulate their base from a place of ignorance and fear. Abortion is almost the last issue they have that will turn out their rapidly shrinking core.
Can you just imagine how much money has been made by these Pro-Life leaders since Roe v Wade was passed?
I wonder……is this really the motivation of some of these CONS – to keep that Pious, Self-Righteous Golden Goose to lay more golden eggs to put into some – usually white, middle-aged man’s pockets
Sometimes I look around this country and just want to scream.
When did black become white and white become black – except in the cases of racism?
I grew up in the 50’s and 60’s – we had different religions – different views – but we did not seem to have this constant need for people to be right all the time.
I do not remember any one in my hometown that could not go to the doctor. That cannot be siaid today – can it?
I don’t remember the preacher being the wealthiest guy in some gated community. Hell, we did not have gated communities back then.
What the hell happened?
As for that revolution – let me just say. My son works for a company and he is called out at 3am and generally works until the day’s workload is done – that can be 8pm or 11pm.
Then he is expected to return to work at 3am – if they call him in.
And ….in Kansas….when has the worker ever had rights?
My son takes pride in his work and does a good job – which is probably why they call him in at 3am. The others on the crew routinely refuse.
But yet those thers are still employed and making the same or more than my son.
How the hell is this okay?
My husband and I taught our children to be responsible, hard working and take pride in what you do.
I fear these traits are not what our current country values…….
And don’t get me started on our country’s hypocritical stance on they value families and kids.
How to not make friends, chapter next. Many years ago, before I could no longer take the B.S. flowing from members of the WDTLC, a judge and I were seated at a table with four older members (yes, all white and male). One began ranting about disrespect for the flag, and as he got rolling, the other three were vociferously joining in with their complaints. When a pause was reached, the judge quietly observed that we should be more concerned about the Constitution than the flag. As blood pressures spiked, I added to the fun by noting that when I was sworn into the Air Force, I took an oath to uphold the Constitution, and further noted there was nothing in the oath about the flag. In short order, His Honor and I were alone, and enjoyed the rest of our meal.
I should add my comments were measured and purposeful, as I knew the four chauvinists had availed themselves of various deferments in WWII to avoid military service. Bass turds (h/t to prairiepond).
I find it very telling that those who scream the loudest and try to bully others into thinking they are so damn patriotic are those who never actually served.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I came of age during the Vietnam War. And I don’t blame anyone for getting out of that particular mess.
But……if yoiu’re going to spout how great you I have known personal loss to wars…..adn this is a big pet peeve of mine.
I hate when any politician uses the military as their backdrop for their spewing….and then to learn they themselves never had to serve.
Exhibit A – Rush Limbaugh – Dick Cheney……and many others in the Hen House
Whenever I see some Tea Party folks dressed up like Uncle Sam or wearing the American Flag draped across their fat butt – I just have to scratch my head and think back to what my grandpa used to say…..
If a person has to dress up or scream to get their point across…..then be very careful in believing what you see or hear.
I’m sorry – but you do you think Betsy Ross had any idea that some fat Americans would think it was patriotic to wear our flag across their fat butt?
Seriously…..
Besides – I remember that picture of George W. Bush standing on a rug that looked like the Amiercan Flag.
How in the hell is that supposed to be honoring our flag?
He was so correct.
I can only imagine what my grandpa would be saying in today’s political climate.
Grandpa was a quiet man – but when he spoke, everyone took notice and listened.
Grandpa also was a working man – not rich in money – but rich in those things that are truly treasures.
Grandpas had to quit school when he was 13 yrs old because he went to work onthe ffarm. That was common in those days.
We need more leaders with the qualities of my Grandpa – IMHO
Meet Greg Abbott, the Man Who May Make You Miss Rick Perry
http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2013/07/greg-abbott-the-next-rick-perry
Oops……
That is one thing about the Far Right – just when you think they could not come up with yet another fanatic contestant for their pissing contest – these folks prove us wrong.
I still remember the look on that Tea Party woman’s face when I said that the Far Right has pushed the Conservative Right side tothe extreme right – that what used to be middle is now considered Left in their view.
Never mind the fact that most o fthese Far RightWingers have turned so far that they can probably kiss their own butts.
As for Rick Perry – we all know he is throwing red meat to the Far Right Wingers in order to get the GOP nomination in 2016.
But……..extreme Far Right Wingers do not fare well in the national elections.
When will these folks learn?
They just need to double down on the crazy and make sure their national candidate is ‘conservative’ enough. They’ll be for one candidate until they’re for another — remember last POTUS election they made each person in the clown car their favorite — each was favored until they weren’t. And the republican constituency never missed a lick or even acknowledged they had a previous favorite after they’d moved on to another.
Then, as in the past, after their candidate loses they’ll have as many excuses as they did favorites. Not lessons, just excuses.
What’s the downside? 🙂
There is no downside – except to hear these folks still yapping even when they lose.
Exhibit A – MItch McConnell and his Band of Stupids
I’m a bad bill
I’m a really bad bill
And I’m comin’ after more than your pill
Well it’s from Texas to Ohio
And in North Carolina
It’s a war on women
And a battle for vagina
Sharia isn’t too far away
You better hope and pray that I will
Stay right here as nothing more than a bill
Boy: Gee bill, you sure could be a pain in the uterus for women.
Bill: Well you got that right. Pain in the uterus, ovaries. Hell, when I started, I wasn’t even a bill, I was just a bad idea. But some folks think it’s the 1950s all up in here. If they had their way it’d be the 1850s! They like to call that the good old days. With women barefoot, pregnant, no vote… you know, baby vessels. The way god intended!
I’m a bad bill
I’m a really bad bill
Owning your uterus just gives ’em a thrill
Well now they’ll tell ya how to use it
For how long and how many
They’ll be in charge of your vagina and you know there won’t be any
Decisions that belong to you
Well some hope and pray that they will
Limit rights and instill their god’s will
Boy: Listen to those legislators arguing! Is all that discussion and debate about you?
Bill: If you could even call it a debate. Let me give you the short version, kid: ladies, keep your legs and your mouth shut. They sure as shit aren’t listening to women on this one.
Boy: Women?
Bill: Yeah, women. You know, people. With rights. Whoa! They’re railroading this thing! Now I go to the House of Representatives, and they vote on me.
Boy: If they vote yes, what happens?
Bill: Then we’re one step closer to theocracy.
Boy: Oh no!
Bill: Oh yes!
I’m a bad bill
I’m a really bad bill
And if they vote for me I think I’ll be ill
Well, then I’m off to Rick Perry
You know he wants to sign
I’m red meat for the base
Oops! he must have lost his mind
If he signs me, then I’ll be a law
How I hope and pray Wendy will
Stand up tall so I stay just a bill
Boy: You mean if Wendy Davis filibusters again we can keep you from becoming a law?
Bill: Not likely. And don’t count on a veto. You see right-wing politicians everywhere are coming up with new ways to wage a war on women. This could go to the U.S. Congress and even back to the Supreme Court. I thought we worked this shit out years ago!
That’s why I explain that I will
Be a pain I am still a bad bill
Congressman: He signed you, Bill! Now you’re a law!
Bill: Oh no!
Texas Senate Committee heard testimony from one woman in the form of a poem, “If My Vagina Was A Gun”
“If my vagina was a gun, you would stand for its rights,
You would ride on buses and fight all the fights.
If my vagina was a gun, you would treat it with care,
You wouldn’t spill all its secrets because, well, why go there.
If my vaginas was a gun, you’d say what it holds is private
From cold dead hands we could pry, you surely would riot.
If my vagina was a gun, its rights would all be protected,
no matter the body count or the children affected.
If my vagina was a gun, I could bypass security,
concealed carry laws would ensure I’d have impunity.
If my vagina was a gun, I wouldn’t have to beg you,
I could hunt this great land and do all the things men do.
But my vagina is not a gun, it is a mightier thing,
With a voice that rings true making lawmakers’ ears ring.
Vaginas are not delicate, they are muscular and magic,
So stop messing with mine, with legislation that’s tragic.
My vagina’s here to demand from the source,
Listen to the voices of thousands or feel their full force.”
http://freakoutnation.com/2013/07/08/texas-senate-committee-heard-testimony-from-one-woman-in-the-form-of-a-poem-if-my-vagina-was-a-gun/