The Tea Partiers are the ones on television putting forth an alternative vision. The progressives, socialists, communists, Marxists, anarchists, etc. are not receiving attention. None are considered to viable strategies for solving society's most pressing problems.
Those in power stoke the flames of anti-communism and anti-socialism in the hearts and minds of the Tea Party and conservatives and defame and disinform people claiming that this policy could move the country toward socialism and this policy might indicate Obama leans toward Marxism. No one in power offers any indication that they know what they are talking about when they cite these "-isms." These "-isms" are not uttered because they wish to get into a debate about them; they are pejoratives aimed at discrediting any movement away from preserving corporate and special interests in society.
Meanwhile, those on the left righteously resent the sentiments of Tea Party people. This is understandable but there are contradictions within the statements of the Tea Party. Those on the left should not dismiss the fact that much of the Tea Party rejects the bailouts that were given to banks. They should not ignore the growing dismay with corporate power and welfare among Tea Partiers. And, they should not ignore the presence of the Ron Paul faction, which subscribes to Paul's antiwar or anti-imperialist views.
This does not mean lefties should expect these individuals to organize as part of their coalitions. What it means is that this is an in for engaging Tea Partiers in much-needed conversation.
In Chicago, I witnessed several who worked to engage the Tea Party as they came up to confront their presence at the rally. Each progressive, liberal, or leftist tried to have a reasonable conversation. Much of the time they failed, but there were a few times that valuable conversation occurs and one must wonder how much intelligence was gained by having such a conversation.
Tune into the Daily Show with John Stewart or blog postings on Huffington Post or Talking Points Memo and you will see what's on the surface. You will see the supremely reactionary.
Look beneath the surface and you might be surprised. These people are impossible to talk and organize with. But, they would probably say the same about you. And, in the end, we all share this land; we all are fighting for a future that allows one to live with dignity.
As hard as it must be, we need to engage Tea Partiers. Or else, they will just be a media-supported special interest-manufactured free market grassroots force for the further erosion of democratic society.
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