Over the years, people have gotten used to hearing the word "right" slapped onto every cause and into many a slogan/jingle. It's gotten so that anyone can claim anything as a "right," when the reality is that many of the things we hold dear are not "rights" at all, they are privileges.
The Constitution specifically enumerates what "rights" we, as human beings, possess by virtue of our humanity - for those who believe in God, our Divine Birthright. But many of the comforts we enjoy: medical care, education, social assistance, etc., are privileges of living in America, paid for American taxpayers. While basic rights should be extended to all people in our shores, legal or not, the "privileges" that come from being an American should only be extended to those who were invited to join our Society. This is what irks many the most. Not only are privileges of citizenship being extended to non-citizens, they are being offered on a platter!
While I applaud our folks for leading the charge, making the calls, and sending the e-mails/faxes to propose this onerous legislation, it appears that Washington stands ready to turn a deaf-ear. Our howls of outrage are becoming "white noise."
Perhaps it is time to make a more visual presence? Just a few ideas came to me, and I will happily let other FReepers take the helm:
How about we turn out, en masse, wearing the color RED to symbolize our anger? Red, one of the colors of our great flag? Red, the color of patriotic blood, shed to preserve our country? Red, the color of countless victims' blood, shed by illegal criminals finding safe harbor in our shores? Red, the color of the ink used to print the huge balooning national deficit our children will face due to all the "entitlements" this amnesty bill will heap upon us? Red ribbons. Red lettering on signs. Red bumper stickers "NO AMENSTY."
Like the "Gore/Leiberman" "Sore/Loserman" slogans, and the "Support the Troops" rallies before - or even the "Count the Silverware" campaign, I think that actions will definitely speak louder than words.
People actually have been making noise - just ask the RNC and most Congressional offices.
We just can’t let up, because Washington has a tin ear on this one.