What Happened to our Constitution?

 Thoughts nag at me, like a tap on the shoulder. I am reading a dystopic novel which accounts for my feeling of dread and despair. But not only the book, which happens to be exciting, engenders apprehension. The news--our reality--disturbs me--the war in Ukraine, the pandemic, threats to democracy, inflation, and the destruction of our planet. 

How does a small minority come to control the Supreme Court and all of the republican Senators? How is it that a reactionary group has become mainstream? Why do people vote for candidates who supposedly espouse thoughts counter to their beliefs? Most importantly, why do numerous Americans sleep through their days, ignoring reality? 

As an example, I heard and read that, according to polls, more people want to keep Roe v Wade in place than not. Yet some of these same voters must be supporting the candidates who are "pro life."  I doubt most citizens desire a country that burns up, leaving dust in place of plants and animals. But still I see the Denalis, GMC's, Suburbans, Range Rovers, and monstrous pick-up trucks on the suburban roads, usually with one driver and maybe one passenger. The multitudes should be scared but not of hard-working refugees. Why aren't the people rising up in fear? I know there are many who are afraid and trying to change our bad habits and policies but obviously not enough people. Otherwise, we would be looking at a rosier future. 

I thought 9-11 would change us. Trump would surely convince the half of the country (that voted for him) we must protect our democracy. The pandemic would connect us in a common bond to preserve life. The insurgency at the Capitol would illustrate the actual danger in our midst. Shootings, homeless, teen suicides, the opiod epidemic, extremes of wealth and poverty should sway voters towards change. No, no, and no. 

The seeds of the craziness we witness were planted in the last half century. Not to be self-righteous, but my family feared Barry Goldwater and George Murphy; at a young age, I felt sick about Nixon and Regan's popularity in California which continued through their presidencies; the Bushes scared me too. First there was the silent majority, but as a young adult I laughed them off. Then there was that mysterious conglomeration of voters from the center of the country. ("What's The Matter with Kansas?") Large portions of our country continued to be persuaded by fear of inflation, no gasoline, terrorists from abroad, minorities from our own land not to act in their best interests. 

I knew something wasn't right. I shuddered when Jimmy Carter lost his second bid for the presidency and Reagan won. I remember literally feeling ill when Carter was blamed for the Iran hostage crisis, and Reagan received credit for bringing the kidnapped state department employees home. I hated Reagan's popularity. I knew he was a fake, though now considered a mild version of a conservative from today's perspective. Alarm bells sounded in my head when Clinton became shrouded in shady circumstances. The Monica Lewinsky episode was political fodder for the vultures waiting nearby. Landslides--Mondale and Dukakis were too intellectual and liberal. Why didn't the Democratic establishment read the tea leaves? 

There have been bright spots of justice--civil rights; women's liberation; gay rights; education of the handicapped; and an acknowledgement of drug abuse, mental illness, and the long term effects of poverty and discrimination, to name some advancements. However, with frightening consistency, we see the majority return to fear, narrow mindedness, and selfish impulses.

Why do Americans prefer populists who instill fear rather than smart people who seem logical and rational? Most citizens are reasonably intelligent and kind, working daily to protect their families and live a decent life. Does the answer lie in exhaustion or apathy to what does not affect them directly? How can law abiding adults adulate money over other values? We all understand that wealth does not insure the good life.

At the present, we live in a country controlled by a minority of power brokers with a death wish for democracy, equal rights, freedom, and a cleaner environment. They care not a whit for the future, choosing immediate gratification for power. I cannot believe that we are on a permanent spiral downwards ending in the demise of democracy, liberty, and the dreams of equality. I am not a super patriot, never shy to weigh in on ineptitude by our government. But I do believe that what the framers of the Constitution established is far better than the alternatives. I believe individuals are capable of making sound decisions as described in the preamble of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

I end with book banning. Now, how stupid is that? Do these zealots not recognize the dangers inherent in curtailing the printed word? Nazis burned books; we see where that led. The Bill of Rights is not to be used capriciously at the whim of some irrational parents. If you tell a person not to read a book, you can be sure they will read it. Even my proper grandmother read "Lady Chatterly's Lover" covered with plain paper. I will not ask the same questions again. I consider my readers to be smart.

© 2022 Karen Levi

WHOOPI REVISTED

 Risking criticism, I return to Whoopi Goldberg and “The View.” I did not simply forgive or dismiss her comment about the Holocaust. If you remember, she said that the Holocaust was “not about race but man’s inhumanity to man.” She did apologize, though does she realize what she said, other than she caused people to be angry? Her statement exemplifies the typical and subtle dismissal of Jews as a minority and victims of racism. The Jewish population of Jerusalem was exiled to Babylonia around 600 B.C.E. In 70  B.C.E., the Romans destroyed the second temple. The remaining Jews were forced to scatter; thus began the Diaspora, the dispersion of the Jewish folk among peoples of other cultures, ethnicities, and religions. Hatred and discrimination of Jews led to their expulsion. And the rest is history….
            Due to their belief in one God, the Jews clashed with the Greeks. After the death of Jesus Christ, a rivalry developed with the early Christians. Early followers of Christ immediately blamed the Jews for his death. (The Romans killed Jesus.) The first accusations of a “Blood Libel” appeared around 1290. Jews were accused of killing babies and drinking their blood (and murdering Christ). Anti-semitism in the Middle Ages culminated with the Inquisition in the 1490’s. Jews were expelled from England, France, Hungary, German states, Austria, Lithuania, Spain, and Portugal. Often Jewish people were asked to return to countries, for example Germany, when economic conditions deteriorated. 
            Over the centuries, Jews have been venerated for their business acumen and scholarly pursuits but then shunned out of fear of Jews “taking over.” Jews have been valued for their intelligence but envied, forced into ghettos, and denied basic rights.
            The dynamic continues to this day. David Baddiel, in Jews Don’t Count, calls this “high and low.” We see this identical ambivalence or love/hate relationship today. It is commonplace to view Jewish people as smart and shrewd in business and leap to accusing Jews of controlling people in high places and vast amounts of money. The shooter in the Dallas area synagogue convinced himself that a well-regarded rabbi in New York could convince the government to release a prisoner in federal custody. Deluded–yes but not so uncommon. During the 2017 Charlottesburg march and riot, the white supremacists chanted, “The Jews Will Not Replace Us.” Ignorant sentiment but dangerous in that it ties in neatly with other conspiracy theories. If any group over time has been accused of working behind the scenes, it is the Jewish people.
            Ms. Goldberg emphatically stated that Jews are not a race. Her comment goes straight to the heart of the problem. If Jews do so well, how can they be subject to racism? History has shown that being a religion, a race, a people or an ethnic group does not matter. Jews are targeted nonetheless. 
The Holocaust serves as a warning. The ultimate irony of Ms. Goldberg’s statement is that Hitler tried to prove Jews were an inferior race ad nauseum. The hideous concepts he borrowed from various sources were heinous as history proved, ridiculous given many “Aryans” had been Jewish at some point. This occurred in 15th century Spain as well–a large number of Catholics were conversos–Jews who had converted to escape the horrors of the Inquisition. All over the world, people discover Jewish blood runs in their veins.
            A hierarchy of prejudice permeates our western culture and global viewpoint. People clash over who suffers/ed more. Jews usually are at the bottom. We are white, rich, and smart. We can pass. All of these arguments are fallacious. Jews come in varied shades of white, tan, brown, and black. We are not the richest group in the United States or the world. The Jewish religion and culture has stressed pedagogy over the centuries. Jews were forced into certain acceptable occupations, most notably dealing with money. Christians considered handling money a dirty deed. Smart? Jews suffer from learning disabilities, genetic syndromes, and cognitive disabilities. I am not aware of any studies that show disabilities favor one group over another. We have no monopoly on erudition, besides there are various intelligences not limited to academic achievement. Rationality has no place in racism.
            Jews do not need to worry about hatred until they do. Ergo, the Holocaust occurred because the very smart, affluent, white Jews of Europe deluded themselves. Then it was too late. This recent history hovers above the heads of Jews in the form of an unconscious fear which rears its ugly head when there is an incident. Recent examples are the shootings at synagogues in Pittsburgh, California, and Texas. Now, off duty police guard events at synagogues. Jewish schools appear as fortresses.
            I do not want to overstate my points for fear of being labeled racist and alarmist. Therein lies my point. As I express my viewpoint, I worry if I have ticked the boxes to qualify as a liberal, J Street member, and Democrat anti-racist. I am no more innocent than the next person. I catch myself utilizing stereotypes in various ways. Every last human on the earth should be working everyday to be compassionate. 
            My mother survived World War II in Shanghai, China, as a stateless refugee. Her family escaped Germany in 1939. As I told my mother, when she became agitated at the label “Holocaust Survivor,” we are not in a competition. During World War II, millions endured hardships beyond comprehension. Violent conflicts continue unabated.  Post traumatic stress disorder permeates families all over the world. So why do we continue prioritizing racial and ethnic groups in terms of applying the racism label? Racism is racism is racism.
            Slavery stains American history, an indelible mark on our story. Though our nation has made progress towards decreasing institutional racism, we have miles to go. Recent backlash in our country, for example limiting voting rights, reminds us that significant work must be accomplished. States should seriously consider reparations for lost opportunities and property for African Americans. The same should be applied to Native Americans. Germany began reparation payments for Holocaust survivors approximately twenty years after the atrocities. Slavery was abolished in 1865?
            Progressives apply double standards to Israel’s behavior. Their blind devotion to the oppressed leads them to label Israel as Imperialist and the present occupation as apartheid. How did that happen? Very little consideration is given to the plight of Jews during World War II. Jewish progressives disdain Israel in the form of tropes, demonstrations, and boycotts which reek of anti-semitism. Zionism is pitted against being Jewish. Can one be a Zionist, love Israel, but hate the government’s policies towards Palestinians? Can one be anti-Zionist and still a Jew. What about religious Jews? Are they all pro-Zionist? No. Reform Jews can be pro-Zionist, pro-IDF, and be in favor of the present government and military in Israel.
            Granted–Israel has committed violent, inhumane acts against the Palestinians. However, the reverse is true. What about other countries that perpetrate genocide? Israel is not the single evildoer in the world.
            In conclusion, I hope that Whoopi Goldberg engages in reading excellent works on the discrimination and genocide of different groups over the last centuries. Perhaps, as a result, she will gain a broader view of racism. I know I could recommend great books.

©2022 KAREN LEVI 

WARNING GRAPHIC IMAGES

 

Yes, They Look Like Us

 Yes, the victims of the war in Ukraine look like me, or I look like them. They are European and so is my background. Yes, I feel a connection. However, that does not mean that I do not care deeply about refugees and prisoners from Afghanistan or Xinjiang province in China. I feel anguish for typhoon victims in the Philipines and desperately ill patients in India. It is ok to see a similarity and then an immediate connection with strangers. Noticing a physical resemblance is just that and nothing more. 

I am not more horrified because violence is happening in Europe. That continent is certainly no stranger to war. Seeing the color of someone's skin or hearing a language and noting its difference to one's own does not make one a racist. What a ridiculous idea. 

Color blindness does not and should not exist. If someone says that they do not see skin color, I worry. Two--three year old children see the various shades and colors of humans. We are different obviously. To observe does not equal action. Observation should end with a thought. Often people who claim they are "color blind" do not monitor their own subtle reactions, rendering them blind indeed.

When we use racial, language, gender, ethnic, and religious diversity to speak out or make decisions based on those differences, we head into troublesome areas. I daresy having a racially insensitive thought is not horrible either. The well known author Ibram X. Kendi, who wrote How to be an Anti-Racist, proposed that we all have racist thoughts at one time or another. But thoughts do not equal actions. This is basic information from introductory Human Behavior courses. Awareness allows us to realize our racist thoughts and work to alter them.

There are numerous instances when I know the media, first responders, and professionals pay more attention to white people than those of color with often tragic consequences. Or the converse--treating people of color worse than white individuals. That is not a new idea, very well established in fact, and an example of systemic racism. 

But the war in Ukraine is not one of those cases. Except, of course, when African and Middle Eastern students were pushed back at borders, escaping hostilities. We are faced with frightening consequences which we typically repress, nuclear war. Our governmental leaders are confronted with making very sensitive decisions--assisting a sovereign nation and risking the unthinkable by a ruthless, evil leader or merely providing economic sanctions, strong as they may be. I do not view the present crisis as a racial one. Everyone on this earth is affected. Leaders of Asian, African, and Middle Eastern countries figure into the equation. Whom do they support?

While I am on the topic, the war is not a Jewish issue either. Jews live in Ukraine and in Russia. This is a human tragedy. Some Ukrainians were complicit with the Nazis and Soviets in killing Jews; but, that has no bearing on the present conflict. I only mention this because I have heard Jewish people make insensitive comments about Ukraine. Anti semitism was rampant and remains a problem in Europe. But that should never be the basis for decisions in 2022. Germany--the best example--among other nations have taken responsibility for the past.

© 2022 Karen Levi

 

ADVICE TO OFFEND--I APOLOGIZE IN ADVANCE

Inflation getting you down? Shrieking at the gas station? Twenty dollars more spent at the market? Suggestions from Karen and Connie Levi might help you. We learned from the master and mistress of saving money. What you save can be given to a reputable charity. We have links on our FB pages. Simple to donate. It is pathetic how few actually have done so. I know some of you have given to good causes independently. 

For G--d's sake, downsize your motor vehicle. If I see one more long, black monstrosity speeding down a road, I might become a violent person. What are you thinking? And I don't care how many children you are homeschooling or grandchildren you are babysitting. Family planning goes a long way. What is the deal with supporting oil companies and their CEO's? I thought you and your family were so bright; doesn't seem like you can connect car to gas station to oil pipeline to earth to corporation. And saving the earth is probably the most important issue of our time.

Why are you shivering outside eating cold food when you could be eating inside your home, warm and toasty? (Assuming you live in temperate areas of the northern hemisphere where it is still winter.) Think of the money you can save by creating your own meals. Anyone who is acquainted with me, knows I do not like to cook. So prepare salads, soups. Put together meals for several days in advance. Clear out your freezer and refrigerator. If you want to support your favorite restaurant, order carry-out. 

Do not drive to the restaurant--walk or bike. If you do not live near a restaurant, I give up. You probably do not need your large suburban house anymore which is located on a cul-de-sac, only accessible to the outside world by motor vehicle. Bravo to those who have downsized or live near commercial areas.

This brings me to walking. Both Connie and I step out as much as possible, combining errands. We both have "no drive" days. How about it--saving you money; decreasing pollution; and providing you with sensible, no nonsense, and safe exercise? Older people usually will not fall if they look straight ahead and down for nasty, uneven sidewalks. I always trip when I look up. "Look, Isabel, at those beautiful blossoms." Before I know it, I am down on the grass. Walking is less risky than skydiving, rock climbing, and swimming the English Channel.

Old is in. (That is us!) New is out. Follow the model of your mothers and grandmothers that we ridiculed. Yes, unfortunately, they have been proven correct in most ways (with the exception of going to a psychotherapist). Visualize old world women in overcoats and scarves, carrying net bags and pushing shopping carts.  That's us--disguised in leggings, boots, and puffy jackets. Ponder for a moment; our children will be writing this message to their offspring in a matter of years.

To quote Connie, "this is war." War. you say? Yes--COVID, our earth, Europe, Afghanistan, China, the Middle East. Wherever one looks, it is happening. Might I add--racism, immigration, dictators, political reactionaries, corruption, guns, crime. So do something. You may not have experienced the tragedies but someone just like you has suffered as I write. Act. 

© 2022 Karen Levi

OVERWHELMED BY THE SUFFERING IN THE WORLD--NOW UKRAINE

 Now our attention focuses on Ukraine. I have made it my responsibility to follow this conflict in the news, since the latest fighting several years ago.  I feel a connection, since I visited Lviv, Ukraine in 2019, as part of a Human Rights trip to Poland. We visited Lviv because it had been a center for Jewish life before the Holocaust. 

As I experienced with the Poles, I observed the Ukrainians to be resilient, tough, and forward thinking, in spite of the trauma that has affected multiple generations. We stayed in a modern hotel in Lviv with updated food choices. Clearly, the employees aimed to demonstrate their progress. The food was tasty, appetizing, and suited to contemporary sensibilities. 

Our guide explained the modern history of the Ukraine, and we visited sites that explained the horrors caused by the Nazis, Soviets, and Russians. The synagogue was a wreck. I understand that the larger Jewish communities shifted to the capital and other southern cities, now in extreme danger. 

Standard of living in Lviv was not up to that of Europe or the United States. However, construction and the presence of businesses catering to modern society popped up throughout the city. The inhabitants moved about with focus and purpose.

People I know express shock, anger, and sadness at the present war. However, the former President again uttered seditious comments which I am certain his base has chewed and spit out. The armed conflict will change the balance and nature of international relations. 

I cannot imagine the fear, anxiety, and uncertainty of people who must run for their lives, with small children and the elderly. 

Not only do I hope for the safety of the innocent and the bravery of the Ukrainian resisters, but I wish for Americans to realize that we too must remain vigilant for our Democracy, develop more sensitivity to those in distant lands, and appreciate the life we lead.

pictures from trip to Lviv, 2019; the children in the upper left had lost a parent to the conflict with Russia

© 2022 Karen Levi

Who Cares?

 Various media sources reported that some hours after International Holocaust Day, a suspect--without a home or some such euphemism--spray painted over 100 swastikas and racist epithets on the facade of Union Station. The national news media did not find the story sufficiently exciting to bring it to the attention of citizens. CNN, local news, and the Washington Post sent out short blurbs on the event. 

Why? I suppose something else caught their attention on that day. Oh, I know, a "cyclone bomb"was blowing up the eastern seaboard, previously known as  a "Nor'easter." The old time fisherman and boatmen of the New England coast laughed in their graves over this nonsense. Massachusetts and Maine are known for wicked storms. So people in the D.C. area stocked up on toilet paper, bread, eggs, and milk while there were over one hundred symbols painted on the outside of Union Station, the train depot mere steps from the U.S. Capitol. "Never mind, oh well, who cares." Merely defacement of public property I was told, when I mentioned the situation to a leader in the Jewish Community of the metropolitan D.C. area. Disturbing yes, but not a hate crime.

I, for one, do not care if drawing swastikas on public property is a misdemeanor or meets the defintion of "hate crime." What bothers me is the uptick of obvious hatred in our country while civic authorities dismiss certain actions and blow others out of proportion. Certainly, graffiti is not a bombing, shooting, or taking of hostages. No one was hurt. However, hate is expressed in symbols, pictures, and words. Amtrak police may not care particularly, and someone is covering up a lack of security.  But swastikas are swastikas and send a strong message. 

© 2022 Karen Levi

https://www.wusa9.com/article/news/local/dc/union-station-swastikas/65-b3f5c8d6-0d21-4909-860c-9f75eef93503