Michigan Nurse
Passionate objectors - Executive Director's column
03.01.2011
by John Karebian, Executive Director
It’s called the American dream because you have to be asleep to believe it. – George Carlin
Yes, the rich seem to get richer, and the gap between the rich and poor continues to grow. Make no mistake, the rich control the corporations, and by wielding their checkbooks, they have bought both houses of Congress, our state capitols and clearly own the media as well. In a recent article in the Huffington Post it was reported that the upper one percent of Americans already control 40% of the nation’s wealth and take in nearly a quarter of the nation’s income. And huge corporations like GE, which made over 14 billion in profits last year, paid little to nothing in taxes. All the while nurses – and in fact most workers – are asked to toe the line, all in the name of "shared sacrifice."
That is why what’s occuring in Wisconsin and Michigan and Ohio, and in many other places is so important. Workers are rallying and speaking out against policies that are clearly in the best interests of big business and its cronies. I am excited by the level of passion I witnessed in Wisconsin and also here in Michigan as worker resistance continues to grow louder and louder as we strive for social justice.
We have put workers’ rights on the national stage, and people are stepping up. Michigan nurses have been a key part of the demonstrations here in the state and our slogan, "Some cuts never heal!," has been the mantra of all working people.
We have put workers’ rights on the national stage, and people are stepping up. Michigan nurses have been a key part of the demonstrations here in the state and our slogan, "Some cuts never heal!," has been the mantra of all working people.
The passions unleashed by this right wing attack may actually have done the working class a favor. The sleeping giant has been awakened! Everywhere I go people are upset with this attack on workers’ rights. We are realizing that governors like Walker and Snyder have brought people into the streets and galvanized people in ways that were unforeseen. Suddenly we have a chance to talk about why unions are important and the value they add to our democracy. We have put workers’ rights on the national stage, and people are stepping up. Michigan nurses have been a key part of the demonstrations here in the state and our slogan, "Some cuts never heal!," has been the mantra of all working people. Perhaps Snyder is comfortable ignoring the people but Michigan Republicans are beginning to squirm. When looking at their own political future, it seems wise to question the political wisdom of balancing the budget on the back of working people and senior citizens who can least afford it, while providing 80 percent reductions in taxes on business.
This is an epic moment for labor in America. Moments like this don’t occur often. Let’s continue to make our voices heard. I am proud of the way our members have stood for their patients, their neighborhoods, and their profession. Keep checking our website for ways you can help. It’s time for nurses to lead the charge!!!!
