Patriotism". A word with many different meanings to a diverse populace. It is imperative that we look with new eyes on the concept of freedom in the light of the Trans Pacific Partnership agreement that is creeping down its shadowy path towards completion. This is a time when it is necessary for all patriots to come to the aid of their country.
Patriotism has been defined as:
1. S pecial affection for one's own country
2. A sense of personal identification with the country
3. Special concern for the well-being of the country
4. Willingness to sacrifice to promote the country's good
We are so far beyond the "love it or leave it" philosophy touted by some in yesteryear. "Stand beside her and guide her" is the more appropriate mantra at this venture. Patriots don't give up, they persevere, they correct course, and they encourage our country to strive to be a beacon of freedom. They don't bail when times get tough, but rather wade through the darkness, holding fast to the democracy we cherish.
Personal identification with our country becomes more difficult as it morphs into a corporatocracy that changes the economic and philosophical landscape of who we are and aspire to be. Rule by an oligarchy of corporate elites is a manipulation of our democratic institutions and our republic. Special concern waxes less for the well-being of our country and its citizens, and more for the special interests of the plutocracy.
This brings us to the "willingness to sacrifice to promote the country's good". We are becoming increasingly adept at this, out of necessity. Sacrifice has become the hallmark of the middle class, mandated by the policies passed by those who do not suffer the consequences of these rules.
Enter the TPP and its draconian implications with both devastating and irreversible consequences. It stabs at the patriot's heart, an attempt to shatter all we hold dear and sacred. If life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are our stalwarts of freedom, then action is imperative and the urgency is NOW. The Trans Pacific Partnership sells out our country, our health, our well-being, and our ability to make a fair and decent living. The Bill of Rights is assaulted outright by the TPPs blatant disregard for our freedoms. It is that insidious. Although dwelling in the shadow realm where secrecy reigns supreme, the information leaked by Public Citizen's Watchdog group illustrates an attack on freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and the freedom to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. The TPP, negotiating in secret for the past 2 - years refuses let the public or members of Congress view this trade agreement which deals less with trade than in granting corporations a blank check and powers superseding the sovereign laws of our country. Pledge allegiance to THAT! As far as our right to petition our government to redress grievances" it will not even be in the government's purview" as any arguments will be heard by a 3 person tribunal, with prominent conflicts of interest favoring the corporations. The deck is stacked.
(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
1
1
1
