By Vernon A. Williams, Gary Crusader
If I hear this ridiculous notion that the Democrats don’t have a party platform one more time…
In full transparency, I’ve said it, too. But only because it is true. They don’t.
My frustration is how long will it take for them to put one together so it can’t be said any more. Not by amoral Republicans. Not by frustrated Progressives. Not by indecisive Independents and, most of all, not by Democrats who seem way too willing to let others define them.
Being a communications professional, it might be dangerous to give my service away for free. I don’t mind pro bono work for the community and less fortunate. But the Democrats have hundreds of millions. Billions. They can afford to pay.
But I just don’t have time to go through all the paperwork so in the interest of my own sanity – and that of the rest of the civilized nation – I’m going to resolve this for them once and for all. The identity crisis is over.
Here is the Democratic Party Platform for 2018 and beyond (it’s so simplistic, I almost feel guilty). Forget the HATE TRUMP mentality. It didn’t work during the last election and America is finding that some people who detest him still vote for Agent Orange (my new name for 45). Democrats must come stronger. And here it is:
Rather than waste time arguing with 45 surrogates over lame and inhumane policies and processes, take the opposite perspective on each and everything that he says and write it down, preach it, eat and sleep it. To clear any confusion, this is NOT a perpetuation of the HATE TRUMP movement. Not at all. Criticizing Agent Orange is passive. And he relishes it. Instead, offer everything that he is against.
You need examples?
Agent Orange is pushing to relieve sanctions against our arch enemy Russia. The Democratic Platform was increase sanctions and enforce some punitive measure for their butting into the 2016 elections.
Agent Orange is pushing for anti-environmental policies so his billionaire friends can rape and pollute nature without reprisal. Use the slogan TURN AMERICA GREEN AG-AIN then just go at it step by step.
Agent Orange wants to increase military spending by $50 billion. Democrats take that same money and challenge to tuition debt forgiveness and grant programs to eliminate debt for future collegians from middle and lower income families.
Agent Orange wants no consideration of even the slightest strengthening of gun laws. Take those measures that 90 percent of Americans agree with on gun violence and challenge the NRA.
Agent Orange wants to immigrate people of color who want to enter the country, and kick out those already here. Support the DREAMERS and reject immigration based on color and religion.
Agent Orange offers a misogynist point of view in all that he pursues. Make American womanhood respected again with equal opportunity, pay, respect and protection under the law.
Agent Orange has no policies favorable to urban America or its Black and Brown citizens. Vow to comprise a cabinet, Supreme Court and work force that celebrates diversity.
Undoubtedly, there are more areas such as taxes, infrastructure, foreign policy, education and health care. Examine each area and make the opposite approach to government the foundation of the Democratic Platform. In other words, stop making it about 45 and make it about the people whose lives he is ruining.
We know Agent Orange will have some loyalists no matter what. But if the opposition is strong, geared toward the people, consistent and compassionate, many of those who supported his lies the first time around will jump ship. Then Democrats must focus on voter education, registration and participation – fielding the best candidates at all levels of government.
These are serious times and this nightmare can be turned around. But it’s time for the RESISTANCE to do more than deflect. It’s time to LEAD.
CIRCLE CITY CONNECTION by Vernon A. Williams is a series of essays on myriad topics that include social issues, human interest, entertainment and profiles of difference-makers who are forging change in a constantly evolving society. Williams is a 40-year veteran journalist based in Indianapolis, IN – commonly referred to as The Circle City. Send comments or questions to: [email protected].
