Sunday, April 1, 2012

America in Decline

http://www.voanews.com/english/news/asia/Politics-Complicate-China-US-Relations-137269073.html

The article I have chosen, written by Stephanie Ho focuses primarily on the Political relationship between the US and China. Stephanie talks about how, although the relationship between the two countries at the moment is not great, it is to be tested further this year 'as both countries face leadership change, or potential leadership change.'

Stephanie Ho's focus throughout the whole article on how change is to come due to changes in power within both countries is emphasized by the possible election of Mitt Romney. 'Mitt Romney, the leading Republican presidential challenger targets China in his public comments and says he will take immediate action if elected.“On day one, I will file, or I will, through an executive order, label China as a currency manipulator allowing us to put tariffs on Chinese goods that are coming into our country and killing American jobs in an unfair way,” he said.'
It is obvious that Stephanie Ho is uncomfortable about this idea and how it will effect the countries relationship even more.

However it must be remembered when reading this article that is is written by someone who is from China and someone living in Beijing. I can't help but feel that the article if course going to be slightly bias, even if not intentional. Although i feel the article is bias, I do agree that US-China relations are only going to get worse, particularly with America wanting to be the most powerful country and thriving off conflict.

Saturday, March 31, 2012

Reality in U.S.- China Relations

http://www.cfr.org/china/reality-us-china-relations/p23803

The U.S. and China have always had a complicated relationship and it is only recently that they have recognised that they must cooperate in order to have a good understanding of how to communicate and work together without any conflicts. This web article expresses the point of how different secretaries such as Timothy Geithner has the view that "only when China makes progress on U.S. priorities-- such as the reduction of trade and investment barriers, protection of intellectual property rights, and currency revaluation-- will the United States make progress on Chinese priorities, such as the export of high-tech products and market economy status."
By having this view the United States and China are creating a wider distance in terms of creating a global peace and stability between the two and also the relationship the U.S. and China have can affect many other countries around the world because they are the two major powers that can make a big impact on something.
Many people are worried about what kind of power China will be because in 2010 it would appear that there were "a series of almost unimaginably poor decisions by Beijing" that raised many concerns. Furthermore, the year had also got "off to a bad start with the cyber-hacking and Google debacle in January." Therefore, all of these problems adding to the growing concerns many people have with the way China will run as a power. The problems China were having allowed the U.S. to maintain its power and leadership to which "President Barack Obama, Clinton, and Gates crisscrossed Asia ties with traditional allies, broaden relations with newer partners and offer reassurance of a deep abiding U.S. commitment to the region". This now means that the U.S. need to capitalize China so that they can at least come a little bit closer to creating a peace between the two nations and the U.S. must also do some things such as getting their economy back on track before anything can go further to pursue the relationship, however it also comes down to China as they have to try and work hard to create a good political relationship between the two. Therefore, the U.S. and China are always going to have problems but they both need to work together in order to cooperate as one power.

Center on US-China Relations

http://asiasociety.org/policy/center-us-china-relations

asiasociety.org is an educating organization which is 'deciated to promoting a mutual understanding' between China and the United States in a global context. It has spread however since to owning headquarters in many other cities including Mumbai, Seoul and Sydeny. It looks at Arts, Business, Culture, Education and policies, and 'provides insights [and] generates ideas... to address present challenges and create a shared future'.

They hold a centre in a few American and Chinese cities, yet post lots of interesting articales and encourage dicussions online too. Right now they are holding a project to promote a "Green China" and "Green United States", as the two are the top producers of greenhouse gases.

This site is very interesting, and I think much needed! It looks far beyond just business relations to promoting culutral relations too - show casing Asian artists and films, and equally Chinese opinions on American culture too. It's refreshing to see a project that unites the two in other ways than any economic rivalry (although these issues are touched upon too!)

Monday, March 26, 2012

US vs. China.

When typing on youtube US vs. China or their relationship the dominant and repetitive theme to continuously to come up what economic power. The US and China are both very powerful countries, dominating a lot of industrial organisations such as cars, oil and general productivity. This means there will be a constance rivalry between the two of who is the better country, as seen through out this course Americans like to believe they are the best in every aspects.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2iwzxG9uMs

This video details how an Chinese - American economistics belives that America's age will run out in 5 years and China will take over.
This is supported with facts from the IMF (Internation Monetory Fund) who says 'just ten years the US economy was 3 times the size of China's, but new data realesed by the IMF shows the Chinese overtaking the US by 2016.'
The video also states that the Chinese can afficiatly construct building and railways, he doesnt say unlike the US but it is clear he is suggesting the the Chinese will over take the US due to passion on being the best whilst the US just sits back and hopes things to happen.

The IMF also show a graph depicting what will happen with the Chinese economy  growing by  7.8 trillion dollars over the next 5 years, where as the US economy will grow only 3.6 trillion dollars, this is one of the lowest economic outputs by the US in its history!!

This demonstartes the China may easily take over the US economically, but this could also impact socaially, instrial use and other aspects as well. This clearly shows the American dream may now be the Chinese dream instead.

cat fish

Cat fish was an American documentary that followed a photographer and his crew on a journey of finding 'love.'  He firsts meets a young girl named Abby who draws pictures of Nev's photos and he soon becomes in contact with the mum, dad and attractive older sister Megan via Facebook. He continually keeps talking to Megan through facebook and then text each other, they also do have a few sex talks on the phone. This shows that even though they have never met they have an extraordinary connection that happened on facebook.

As the story continues however it is clear that everything is not as it seems, little conversation and searching on the Internet for Megan proves difficult and it seems as if she is not actually real, so the team decide to go to the family home and meet them after 8 months of talking over facebook.

However when he gets to the house, the mum isn't a young attractive women, but rather fairly overweight and she has two disabled twin daughters!!

The mum confesses that she has in fact taken strangers identities and made up family and friends so that they can all contact each other like a real facebook page would do.

This story shows how American identity can be stolen from other, fabricated and hidden. The women pretended to be a completely different lady and have a whole different family, just from a network site. This can either show some Americans as completely odd and strange, or show how technology is so advance that you don't have to be yourself in any way anymore, and clearly others will believe you to be the person you imitate.

Sunday, March 25, 2012

Trolling for your soul

" TROLLS are hard to find in the real world, but all too common in the virtual one. “Trolling”—posting wilfully inflammatory, off-topic or simply stupid remarks—plagues blogs and other online forums"


"Trolling is a side-effect of online anonymity," the author of the article opens the second paragraph with, "The problem is that so many people behave like one". The author even quotes Judith Donath, an internet expert at Harvard University, on 'trolling'. She refers to it as a “game about identity deception”.

Yet what is the effects of a 'troll' on the future of American Society? Qhile most 'trolls' 'troll' for humour - whether it's making others laugh or just themselves - trolling can actually say a lot about society. "Naive questions from well-meaning newcomers attract irritable responses. Quiet and reasonable voices get drowned out," The author explains, furthering the point by even claiming, "Trolls may commit the virtual equivalent of a physical assault."

To show how serious Trolls can be, the author mentions a " particularly nasty case in 2006 online bullies e-mailed photographs of a teenager’s corpse, badly mutilated in a car accident, to the grieving family". And the problem with trolls is "Even if a troll is kicked off an online forum, he can often simply sign up again under a different name."

Facebook was praised in the article for being a great anti-troll site. While people can still troll - though they'd have to work hard to do so - People have to put all this information that rids of that online anonymity. People can directly address the troll. While trolling is world wide, what makes trolling so American (in most cases) is how they argue and flaunt about their freedom of speech and right to remain anonymous.

Other sites are now using Facebook as a way of logging in to comment or access things. By making their comments public, it reduces numbers of those who want to troll. "The move also raises fears. Facebook has already accumulated a remarkable amount of data—and not just about its users’ online, but their real-world activities: messages, pictures, calendars, likes and dislikes, even shopping."

While it isn't fair for everyone to lose their anonymity, it could help solve certain issues and cases. "If governments did that, the result would be outrage" however. People would lose their freedom of speech - or anonymous freedom of speech. And lots of people like that they can say things that they couldn't usually, yet we do discover trolls and people who have a very dark sense of humour (and even worse than that, some who aren't even trolling and generally believe what they say). It shows us American's "secret" identities in this way... the side that people don't always wish to be associated with.

Digital Identity in America

Digital Identities such as Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, and Bebo have taken over America with a recent study showing that 79% of American Adults are online http://www.mediabistro.com/alltwitter/social-media-america-identity_b12613 One of the most interesting things about social media is that these sites allow you to create your identity. For example with twitter you are allowed to write a few words about yourself for other people to see. However what you write is down to you and there is now way of finding out if someone is lying or not. The same goes with other social netoworking sites. With the site Tumblr you can post pictures or statements that mean something to you, however again it's hard to know whether people are really posting things that they are passionate about or if they are posting certain pictures to create a certain image or identity amongst the Tumblr community.
In a way the online social network allows some people to create a new identity if they are disliked or unkown. With sites such as Twitter you can easily use a fake picture and pretend its you. It is also very easy to become well known and loved on Twitter. If you were to join a band's following for example such as One Direction and you were to mention them somewhere in your description you could easily gain hundreds of followers, therefore your real identity is easily hidden in place for whoever or whatever you want to be.
I think people online either want to be loved or hated. Some people create twitter accounts just to write nasty comments and intrude on people's lives. However others, like I explained above will join a certain community to try and fit in and feel loved because it is very easy to do.

However, with sites such as Youtube, you are able to show a positive side of your identity with a certain talent you have that you may want to share. The most famous example being Justin Bieber who started by posting videos of him singing. Youtube allows people, no matter who they are, to represent themeselves for who they actually are and although many receive hate, I like the fact they are on video and therefore can't really hide their identity unlike the majority of other social sites.
People who 'put themselves out there' online are always going to have to be prepared for people giving their opinion about certain things they may say or do. People on these sites are in a sense very vulnerable as people have access to what they write or do and many people will receive unwanted comments or people 'trolling'.

Saturday, March 24, 2012

Digital Identity

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2011/04/19/us_proposes_online_ids_for_americans/

This is an article that states how the US are proposing that American's have online ID's in order to help try and protect against fraud and identity theft. By doing this the "the government wants to create a voluntary system that will allow Americans to access financial services online using one account." Furthermore, by having an online identity is will allow users to "register for access to a network of government and businesses providing data and ways to pay for things online." This digital identity has been given the name NSTIC (National Strategy for Trusted Identities in Cyberspace) and this particular system is said to allow for citizens to pay for bills and taxes online with only giving away a small amount of information such as their age, thus protecting them against giving away too much information that will allow fraud and identity thieves the chance to take some ones identity.
This ecosystem has also stated that it will used "Trust marks" to ensure that the different organisations have met security standards to enable people to use safe web pages. The US government have also said how having a digital identity can not only protect its users but it will also be good for the environment because it will "improve productivity by...reducing paper-based processes and the help-desk costs associated with account management and password maintenance." Therefore, they are saying that by having digital identities they will no longer need any documented identities on paper because everything they need will be on a computer system.
Are digital identities a good thing then ? because although it may be more protective from fraud and theft it could still have its problems and I think this just shows how the world and America in particular rely on computers and technology to do everything and without them they would be lost. This is why I think that even though we now live in a world that is dominated by technology this is shaping the way people think and behave people are still very different in terms of what they do with it. Furthermore, although it may be good for protection it might also have negative side effects to it too.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Occupy Together

http://www.occupytogether.org/

Occupy Together is a website to raise awareness of the Occupy Wall Street movement. The Occupy Wall Street movement is a non violent protest about wealth inequality in New York's Wall Street finical district. To quote from the website itself, "people-powered direct action movement that began on September 17, 2011 in Liberty Square in Manhattan’s Financial District". The protest's slogan is "We are the 99%" - a reference to the result that 1% of America is the wealthy, rich percent. which is the first thing that stands out on the page - along with it's colour scheme.

The colour scheme is red, and white, is very quite significant in itself. Red is usually known as a colour of action, and danger, and when mixed with the simplicity of black and white, even more so. The pictures on the main page are edited with a pop art effect, causes the subjects of the picture to become anonymous and just part of a crowd.

Next to this slideshow are two buttons; Click here to find an Occupy group in your area and Plan and start solidarity actions in your area. Clicking on the first button sends you to a page that offers a list of all the states, other countries and their occupy websites. The second link locates where you are, and tells you whether you're town has one (Winchester doesn't!), or offers to start a new one. It's very clever - and a little scary that it can track you!

There are the typical links to social networking sites - this time in grey as to not stand out too much - so people can rally their friends in or meet others in the area, and below a "Recent Twitter Activity" log. There is then next to that a list of blog posts to inform people in more detail about the recent movements, all around the world. The site is informative and great at encouraging people to get involved by telling them what opportunities are available, and information about what is the current status of the movement.

The Class system in America today

http://www.classmatters.org/bios/leondar-wright.php

Class Matters was started by Betsy Leondar-Wright, an economic justice activist as well as an author who writes about class and economic equality. Although the website doesn't give much information about the organisation itself, it does however come across as a very popular group with many links to people within the group that have been interviewed and articles that have been written. This website unlike many others, seems to have a very relaxed approach to getting their values and points across. When I clicked on a link called 'working definitions' this relaxed approach was confirmed. 'Class in the US is a confusing and slippery topic. The definitions that make sense to one person may not make sense to another. These definitions are offered in hopes of starting a discussion with shared language.' Its almost as though it doesn't matter if you agree or not it is up to you. The website tends to subtly put their points across and without asking for things such as money donations, makes the website more appealing and more approachable for many people.

A majority of the website is taken up by surveys which they have undertaken with responses from interviewees and visitors of the website. One of the surveys asked 'What's the most classist thing you've ever heard someone say?' with some of the responses being quite shocking. "Of course I am going to be patronizing to workers, I'm educated." These surveys are a brilliant way of emphasizing just how prominent the class struggle is in America and how things are not changing and adding concern as to whether they ever will. Responses such as the example I have given, majority of which were from those higher up in the class system, create a reaction from those reading them and I think that these surveys alone should trigger a reaction within someone which is perhaps why the website takes such a laid back approach.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Getting by without the Middle Class

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/10/us/10iht-letter10.html?_r=4

This is an article produced from the New York Times, published June 9, 2011 and it is discussing the class system and how the working class are struggling.
"The big mystery in the United States today is why the job crisis is not at the center of the political and economic debate" because it would appear that America is in one of its biggest declines yet. It is said that "nearly 14 million Americans - 9.1 % of the working population -are unemployed." There are also problems with finding full time jobs as "8.5 million would like to work full time, but can only find part-time jobs." Therefore, not helping the unemployment rate and it also creates pressure on those that need to find jobs because they need to earn money in order to live. Thus once of the reasons why 2.2 million people have just given up looking for jobs altogether. It has been said that these figures are the highest they have ever been since they first started keeping records in 1948.
Furthermore. this remains an issue in America because "the debate in Washington is focused on deficit reduction, rather than job creation" and so there will always be a problem with unemployment rates because the politicians of America are not trying to do anything about it which is why there is a class system even if Americans do not want to believe it or admit to it.
However, it would seem that politicians on the left wing have realised how important this issue is because Robert Reich, a former labour secretary stated that "the economic burdens of Americas's vast middle class may be catching up with the street" and he went onto warn the if jobs were not created soon the "American consumers will not have enough purchasing power to buy what the private sector can produce." Therefore, if this happens the middle class can get left behind because they will not be relied on to purchase goods as businesses are "learning to get by just fine, without middle class."
Moreover, if this continues to happen then America are likely to go into an even bigger decline than they already are in because more jobs are likely to go which means more people are going to become unemployed and will find it harder to get a new job. Which could consequently mean they could potentially become very poor and possibly even lose their homes especially if they have a family to look after in which their children could go hungry. Therefore, this class system is in a lot of trouble because it does exist and it has a huge impact on the way people live.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

How the American class struggle works.

Lenin's Tomb is a personal blog that was started in 2001 and has continuous monthly blogs. When i first went onto his blog there were posters for Tunisia and Arab groups which may indicate his views towards America anyway, let alone their political beliefs

He starts by quoting the New York times, which basically said how Americas business's are on the rise and how people may still be having economic difficulties. It also records many facts and figures about how much Americans economy has risen, and tries to make the article as positive as possible, however it doesn't look into how the people of America are still struggling and how many are truly in poverty.

'These, aspects of an increasingly brutal, exploitative and repressive capitalist system, are among the reasons why Obamamania has bitten the dust.' As previously said its clear that his views towards Americas politics and Obama aren't positive as in this statement he is clearly placing the blame all on the President and doesn't even look into other possibilities for the downfall.

Although when he does offer his opinion that there are job opportunities for people to create a better life for themselves, he then again spins a negative thought on it suggesting the work offered is low paid, labour work. However surely this work is better than nothing if you need to provide for yourself and your family.

Overall this is a very negative opinion about the current situation, this may be down to his background and beliefs due to the Arab influences posted on his blog.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

American Muslims.

I choose to look at American Muslims due to the controversial issues they bring alight in America. Since the 9/11 attacks majority of Muslims have said they felt discriminated against, due to their clothes, colour of skin and religious beliefs. This may be down to the fact that 4 in 10 Americans have an unfavourable view on Islam, 5 in 10 Americans believe Islam is more likely than any other religion to encourage violence and 6 in 10 believe Islam is very different to their own religion.

However this may show a very naive view of Americans and how they see the world as of their lack of knowledge about Muslims and their culture and religion. Since the 9/11 attacks the U.S Department of Justice recorded a 1,600 percent increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes from the prier year and these numbers rose 10 percent between the years 2005 till 2006. It is clear that many Americans do believe that Muslims may appose a threat to American civilisation, and as it's estimated that there could be around 8 million American Muslims, ( the US census cannot ask this question to identify their religion), although compared to American Christians who represent 74% of the population only 0.6% identify themselves as Muslims. This could either be due to people being ashamed and not wanting to show themselves as Muslims to decrease discrimination or whether over the past few years due to the increase in racial discrimination people have changed paths, or no longer believe in anyone at all.

Scientology in America

I have decided to choose http://www.scientology.org/what-is-scientology.html which is the official website for Scientology. Although Scientology is heard of, it is a religious group that many people do not understand, or do not have much knowledge of. This religious group may be seen as small however it is growing, especially with public figures such as Tom Cruise being a part of this belief.
When you immediately enter the website and many other pages, a video is played at the top of the page, reinforcing what Scientology is and should be. The video shows us that Scientology is the 'study of knowledge' the video continues to say it is a 'new kind of religion, not just something you believe in.' This video can come across as very selfish and cocky however on the other hand, the way in which this video and the website defines Scientology represents American Identity in the sense that it is something new and different from anything else. It allows people, in a sense, have more depth in a religion allowing your own identity.
What really stood out to me was that Scientologists claim that they 'actively use the insights and knowledge that Scientology gives them to make a real, positive difference in the lives of others.' This again relates to American Identity in terms of faith as making yourself better and always improving not only your life but others around you is part of the American Identity, this sense that through this religion you can and will become whoever you want to be.
They alos have a section on 'how we help' this section again comes across as very selfish and almost as though they are the best religion. In one of the videos they state how people who were drug free or educated are a lot more efficient than those who do the opposite. Their is this sense here again of trying to create the perfect American Identity and trying to get as many people as possible to follow the same path.

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Jewish Americans

http://www.iajf.org/about_iajf.php

This website is an organization for the Iranian American Jewish Federation (IAJF) which was set up and launched in 1980 due to the mass immigration of Jewish people in Los Angeles, California in 1979. There were also other organizations that were set up, but this was created and formed to defend and protect the interests and welfare of Jews not only in America but around the world as well. The organization created a magazine called Shofar Magazine in order to make communication with other people easier and more accessible as well as "providing information about the activities of this and other Jewish organizations within the community." The magazine was first published in 1982 where Homa Sarshar, a well known journalist in and out of Iran, took control of the creative direction and the editing.
The Shofar has had many editors and in 2007 it used a young graduate from the University of Northridge, California called Mojgan Moghadam-Rahbar who used his experience in print media as well as radio and television to "capture the interest of the younger Iranian-Americans by creating a well written, informative and entertaining English section to the publication." Furthermore, the Shofar is using younger and more energetic writers because they want to keep the "community informed and encouraging healthy and constructive communication within the Iranian-American Jewish society." This is because the Jewish community is increasing and more of the younger Iranian-American Jews are becoming more educated and established and so this magazine enables them to keep in contact with those that may not be as well as the older people in the community.
Therefore, the fact that this particular faith is using a magazine and there is also a calender on the website that shows everything important in Iranian Jewish life just shows how this community is growing and becoming increasingly important in the change of the identity of America. This religious faith can change the views and beliefs of America because as there is a rise in the volume of people living in America belonging to this particular faith, or even converted Jewish people then the predominate faith to which is the Christian faith then becomes smaller allowing for Jewish people to become part of the faith that can act as a factor for defining the United States of America. Furthermore, the Jewish faith has been in around since the time of B.C and in America it has been there as early as the 17th Century and so they have a long history for living there.

Mormon

http://mormon.org/

The first site image is a heavily religious one of Jesus Christ saving a blind man who is begging for help. There is a box that straight away grabs our attention;

What is the purpose of my life?

They offer to teach more about Jesus Christ, "our redeemer" who "made a way for us to be forgiven". If you click this link it takes you to a long page broken into sections, which seems like any Christian site. They talk about redemption and who and what Christ did for us. One thing I did notice was that all the photos were very multicultural - something they include on the first page too. Going back to the home page, in the slideshow after the picture of Jesus Christ it is full of profiles of Mormons - all of whom are of a different ethic.

The site has a page on "Values" which to me was very American; Freedom to Choose, Strengthening Families, Good Citizenship being just a few of these. These values are very strong in the American Identity. Americans pride themselves in their value and moral codes, and on being a Good Citizen.

I didn't see anything at first that showed the uniqueness of the Mormon religion. Under the section "Our Beliefs" there is however sections on Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. For those that don't know who Joseph Smith is or what the Book of Mormon is, they do try to offer an explanation and history. They also allow Mormons to answer "Who was Joseph Smith?". The website claims that "In response to a humble prayer, God called Joseph to re-establish the Church of Jesus Christ". Mormons only have a small section to explain the significance of Joseph Smith as they do not worship him (as such. Some claim they just "respect" their founder).

The most significant detail about the site is (as usual) the imagery. The imagery is a mix of old religious paintings with lots of different American Identities representing America and the Mormon community. This is significant because of the use of various American Identities. The media in America always portrays America as being far more equal and just than in reality it is, and the website goes along with this. They also heavily show their strong beliefs in values and Jesus Christ, which Americans also view as another important part of their Identity.

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Sexual Identity

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8zwM6oDM1Q

The video I have chosen is from The Ellen DeGeneres show in February 2012. In the clip I have chosen, Ellen is standing up to 'one million moms' (http://www.onemillionmoms.com/purpose.asp) and standing up to her haters.
Ellen says in the clip that she doesn't usually bother responding to her haters but this time she felt the need to. Ellen explains about her endorsement with JC Penny and how 'one million moms' responded. Ellen remains calm and confident whilst explaining the whole situation and even jokes about how she will now receive free t-shirts.
Even whilst reading out what 'One Million Moms' said about the endorsement she remains herself not letting the comments get to her but retaliating with her comedic element. She goes on to show the audience that 'One Million Moms' only have 20, 000 fans on their Facebook page.


Ellen DeGeneres doesn't come across a maybe what a stereotypical homosexual is assumed to come across as. I also think that the fact that Ellen is probably one of the most influential lesbians in America and with such a popular TV show, shows us that she is accepted into society, no matter what certain groups may say. I think the fact that people like Ellen and Perez Hilton are so popular and well known all over the world gives a positive outlook that maybe things will change eventually and how much society has changed so far.
Overall Ellen represents a positive image of 'gay and lesbian' society and at the end of the clip states what she stands for, which is exactly the same as any other person in America or the rest of the world. What I do wonder though, is why is it that people with such a high status in America are so popular with millions of people behind them, has nothing changed quicker in Society?

America Got Gay Agenda!


I found this video very interesting (and not because of the strange interviewer!), because it related with an article we read last week about Gay Agenda at the moment, and how there wasn't one. The author of the article also stated he had no intention to get married though, where as those interviewed in the video hint they would like too, or at least feel they should have that equality.

There was also only one person who looked embarrassed when asked whether they are were gay or not, but everyone else looked unfazed at the question. Comparing this to how society would have acted years ago at the question, it shows that the majority of people are now aware of and accepting of gay America (at least in New York).

The video showed their identity as equal until the law was brought up, and they mentioned they hoped for marriage rights and equality, and it reminded me how unequal America still is. I felt a little sad when the blonde man said he already was married, and showed the ring on his right hand! While America has come along way, there is still more to do!

Friday, March 2, 2012

Perez Hilton on gay marriage and miss California.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LT3OhrYObsc

I chose this video for a few reasons. Firstly it's not stereotipically in your face 'gay' (bright colours, over the top dramatic faces and speeches, over the top clothing etc.) secondly Perez Hilton is predominatly one of America's and possibly the worlds most recognised gay famous person, and as he is a jounalist(blogger) he is aware of many situations surrounding the world, which allows him to express his opinion proffessionally. This means that he will obviously have a postive emotion towards gay marriage and as he was at the ceremony of Miss America, and even asked her the question on being gay, his view towards her as well will be very strong.

The video starts with a question being asked about Miss California, where he adds emphasises saying that 'I think Miss California HAS to loose her crown.' He backs this up by saying she has broken the rules of the padgent and her contract, this makes him seem aware and knowledgable about this issue, so we are more likely to side with him and his views.

This video also shows his power and gay power, he says that in the last 4 weeks the polls have shown that more and more people are now in favour of gay marriage. This could be due to the 'fashion' and trends people follow, but due to Miss Californias ignorance, people may dislike her views and her general self and want to rebel and go against her ( possibly just to cause controvisy.)
He goes on to say that Maine has now legalised gay marriage, New hampshire are deciding what choice they want to make that week and California will also be providing their desicision to the state. This means that gay identity isnt always seen as we negative anymore, but rather considering previous years where people would never tell anyone about their 'status' are now allowed to show the world who they are and love with gay marriage.

In the interview they talk of him blogging where he has over 10 million followers, this also tells us people arent as prejudice anymore and welcome new ideas by supporting peoples individuality.

There are many other videos surrounding Miss California and other celebrities that are for gay marriage, but due to Perez Hilton's major influence and popularity with people, shows that people are acceptance of the idea of being gay and their identity is recognised with new laws such as legal marriage.

End of Don't Ask Don't Tell

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZPLXj860lE&feature=related

This video clip was produced 20 September 2011 and it demonstrates how the Don't Ask Don't Tell policy is coming to an end, however it would also appear that the clip is almost making a mockery about gays and lesbians in the United States. This YouTube video also looks as if though they are laughing about the situation because it uses Jimmy Kimmel Live to show a another clip that has been created to show the armed force are accepting of gays, lesbians and bisexuals. Furthermore, before they show the clip they make jokes about how its going to be awkward to shower together and how the ban was waiting for the glee premier, which uses many gay and lesbian characters.

This could also be a mockery of sexual orientation and identity because it says the Marines have made a specific training video for how they are welcoming of different people. The so called training video also says how one of the recruits are from Texas, and the man in charge says "never Texas, only thing that'll come out of Texas is Queer, so you must be Queer" and then by the end of the clip the corporal says we accept any sexual orientation and he makes the recruit kiss him on the cheek to which he says "did you like that, so did I" so he says he is gay as well but its almost as if he is laughing whilst doing it. Therefore, when it comes to the identity of gays and lesbians America and the armed forces are trying to show they are accepting of this even though they are laughing about it at the same time which would suggest otherwise. There are also various links to other clips that show how some soldiers are not satisfied because it goes against their religion, but then there are clips that show how sport stars have come out and people are fine with it.

Therefore, when it comes to the identity of gays and lesbians in America as well as other sexual preferences I think it is more accepting to the idea and so more people are feeling as if they can 'come out the closet' and be proud about it but I also think there are many people that find it uncomfortable and will never be accepting. So I think it is hard to identify gay and lesbians in the contemporary USA because there are people that are still trying to come round to the idea as well as people that will always hate it and so it is still very difficult for many people to truly express who they are.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Nickel and Dimed

The review I have found is by a website called Feminist Reprise, start off with a positive review of the book stating 'Nickel and Dimed is a needed work--engaging, well-researched and
written in a directly personal style.' I agree that the book is very insightful and well-researched.

However the review continues to say ' The book contains numerous disdainful comments and one very disturbing rant--"We live in fear of being crushed by some wide-body as she hurtles through the narrow passage from Faded Glory to woman size, lost in fantasies involving
svelte Kathie Lee sheaths." It is unfortunate that a political writer of her caliber has not only not examined fat hatred, but has contributed to it.' I agree with this as I do not understand why it was a necessary comment to make within the novel and a very nasty comment at that. Although it may be true what she is saying, I don't feel like Ehrenreich should be making comments such as this whilst undertaking such an 'experiment.'

'Ehrenreich succeeds beautifully in conveying to her middle-class audience that
she is just like them and that since she could not support herself, never mind a
family, on the jobs available to her, the problem lies in the system of low-paid
work, not in the workers.' Overall I do agree with this review as I believe Ehrenreich did a brilliant job of conveying the depth and degree of low wages in American Society and how trying to support one person alone is bad enough let alone those with a family to sustain.

Nickel and Dimed

http://www.pajiba.com/book_reviews/nickel-and-dimed-review.php

This is a review of Barbara Ehrenreich's book 'Nickel and Dimed' and from first impressions it would suggest that many people are angry about the living/working conditions that people are faced with everyday, but the extend of it only comes to light now that there is a book to publicise it. Furthermore, the book also may have annoyed different people because "Ehrenreich is actually incredibly forthright about the fact that her experience does not mimic what it is actually like to live in poverty--it merely shows the difficulty of living from day-to-day on low wages. She always has the option of pulling out." The review also states that even though this book has been praised by many critics, they personally find that even though the book works fine Ehrenreich falters when she tries to produce a commentary such as when "she starts describing the plus size section at Wal-Mart, she refers to the clothes as tent-like and uses a few unflattering remarks to describe the customers."
Therefore, this creates an annoyance amongst people because to Ehrenreich it does not effect her the same it would affect others, as she has a home and a job she can go back to in her middle class lifestyle, whereas the workers need these jobs even if they are low wage because they desperately need the money to survive to buy food and shelter. This is why Pajiba, who wrote this review is not happy because it just highlights how people are treated by their employers as well how they struggle to make ends meet but they can not do a lot about it because it could have a negative effect in that people lose their jobs and homes.
Overall this is a negative view on the book that demonstrates to people the poor quality lifestyles that people in America lead and in some respect the book ma be eye-opening to what needs to be done to help. but I do not think their circumstance will change for a while yet.

The Simple Dollar

http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2006/11/25/review-nickel-and-dimed/

So the first thing this article says to critique Nickel and Dimed is; " In short, [Ehrenreich]'s an excellent writer, though not an expert on any way in the matters of personal finance.". It then goes on to describe what the book is about before saying " A cynic might say she was “slumming it” for a book, but the book does succeed in one clear way: it is a well written account of what life is like near the poverty line.".

And that is true, Ehrenreich is a good writer and the point of the book is a great one - to raise awareness of the poverty in America. The critique points out that those reading the article (and most likely the book) think of frugality as "buying the generic bow-tie pasta at the grocery store, but the fact of the matter is that if you’re reading The Simple Dollar, you’re probably not eating beans out of a can and hoping that the heat isn’t turned off".

They then go on to write about how "Often, her coworkers were single who simply chose not to even try to better themselves... education is the most valuable investment you can make in yourself". The critique does point out that "However, most of the other people in the book simply do not see further education as an option". That probably is correct, and my problem with the writer's attitude is how can they afford the price of education?

The whole article is full of positive praise for Ehrenreich's writing and how the book raises awareness. Yet the article does not speaking highly of those living this life. The thing that bothered me the most about this article was how snobby the writer seemed. The example given above was the one that spoke out to me most - he's blaming the people themselves for this life. While on one hand, yes they are not setting higher goals and trying to better themselves, it's not like they can get that chance as easily as those born into more financially stable homes can. And because of how society treats them - or what society tells them- I can see why they do not feel further education is not an option and how it's not always their choices that lead to this.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

critique of Nickel and Dimed.

The first thing i noticed when finding a review of the book Nickel and Dimed that many focused on the financial and economic side rather than feminism. This means that maybe the book isn't as feminists as people (strong feminists) believe it too be as the majority of readers are seeing the difference in male and female rather the money issue is much more important and significant.

The blog from Brothers Judd starts by saying that Barbara is the rarest of breeds and is clearly a socialism. They also instantly criticise the way she has wrote the book and suggest that she doesn't give an insight into the real people who go through their jobs and suffering every day and also how she doesn't offer advice on how to improve their lives for the better, so what does this book actually achieve.

They later go on to say that she didn't look for a church to help her out with social and friendship issues. this could tells us the bloggers view point on Christianity, how the book maybe isn't 'real' in their opinion and their view on Barbara herself (possibly as arrogant, not realistic etc.) They go on to say that as she
refuses the Church's advice and later complains about the lack of available help, which has been offered to her and says her anti-religious sensibilities prevent her from accepting an available source.
This makes it clear that the writers of this blog, probably don't like her overall views in life about feminism, money, church and this is presented by the lack of positive praise for the book.

When the writer concludes the review of the book, he actually suggest a few points of how they could help the workers and she doesn't offer any ideas. i found this amusing that they try and basically re write the book as 'she doesn't bring much to the table.'
As earlier said the review doesn't speak of feminism and how she only chooses jobs that women apply for, but rather just speaks of the financial issues.
over all this review doesn't make the book sound interesting, well written or exciting, but rather puts me off the book and others.

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Shinnecock Tribe.

The Shinnecock tribe are located on the east end of Long Island. They believe that they were born in America and are the 'human children of the goddess who descended from the sky.' This instantly tells us their spiritual beliefs as their time has also been measured in the moon and seasons.

They call themselves the people of the stony shore due to their location but they are coastal dwellers as well. They depend on the shellfish and scaly fish for their diet and have been fishing and whaling in this area long before the industry grew in the 19th century.

Today their is 1400 of their people, and still live on a small part of the ancestral land - the rest has been taken from them in previous wars. They have created a health and dental care buildings in their community to help the local people thrive in their ever-expanding community. Also they have built museums about their history and educational centres and playgrounds for the children. This tells us that they want to keep their history whether good or bad alive for people in the community and others to remember, due to most of their history just being word of mouth past down each century. By building health centres also tells us that they are moving in some ways to the 21st century for beneficial reason, but not the whole way.

They are a self- governing tribe and have federal recognition, which helps them to protect themselves and the land.
They have proposed a casino, which they say will benefit the local community by offering plenty of jobs and improving many peoples way of life;
create 3,450 construction jobs
5,500 full time jobs
12,000 jobs for the local communities
generate $200 million revenue that will help improve the school district
attract super markets, cinemas and other businesses
and create lots of green spaces

All of these are positive for the community and for Long Island in general for tourism attraction and revenue reasons, however does it go against their historical traditions.

White Mountain Apache Tribe

http://www.wmat.nsn.us/

The White Mountain Apache Tribe live in Eastern Arizona, "where we have lived for thousands of years.. It starts at about 2,600' above sea level on our southwest side, and ranges all the way up to 11,400' on the peak of Mt. Baldy on our eastern border'.

'There are many different nations of Apache people. We are Western Apache, closely related to the people of San Carlos, Payson, and Camp Verde. Though there are differences in language, history, and culture, we are also related to the other Apache nations: the

Chiricahua, Mescalero, Jicarrilla, Lipan, and Kiowa-Apache peoples'

Facts
-They farmed, growing corn, sunflowers, beans, squash, and other foods. They hunted deer and other game and collected abundant wild plant foods. They travelled widely, trading and raiding throughout the region and deep into Mexico.
-They still hold dancing ceremonies open to the public, "during which visitors must abide by... [the] code of conduct".
-The White Mountain Apache Tribe now consists of approximately 15,000 members. Many live here on our Tribal lands, but others live and work all over the country and the world.
- It is home to the Apache trout, a species brought back from the brink of extinction through the efforts of the Tribe and many partners.
- While not much is said about their economical status, they do have their own resort and Casino!
- And hold lots of outdoors activities, in which visitors are welcome to join in! They encourage people to "leave the hustle and bustle of the city... and join us on the mountains where the air is cool and clear"
- The believe that we come from earth, and that "we belong to the earth".

Friday, February 17, 2012

The Klamath Tribes

The Klamath Tribes mission is to protect, preserve and enhance the spiritual, cultural and physical values and resources of the Klamath, Madoc and Yahooskin peoples.
'Yahooskin' means a band of Snake Indians comprising a part of the Klamath tribes.
"We are the Klamath Tribes, the Klamaths, the Modocs and the Yahooskin. We have lived here in the Klamath Basin of Oregon, from time beyond memory. Our legends and oral history tell about when the world and the animals were created, when the animals and gmok'am'c - the Creator - sat together and discussed the creation of man. If stability defines success, our presence here has been, and always will be, essential to the economic well-being of our homeland and those who abide here"
Facts
  • The Klamath tribes signed their treaty in 1864 with the United States of America.
  • The Klamath tribes contributes upwards of $25 million dollars into the Klamath County economy each year through goods and services.
  • The tribes are one of the largest equal-opportunity employers in the Klamath County.
  • Kl-mo-ya Casino is the second largest tourist attraction in Klamath County, with approximately 300,000 visitors ech year- second only to Crater Lake National Park.
Economy
The Klamath tribe had for years been living off the timber and revenue from leasing tribal lands. When termination occurred the tribal land was sold and most of the Klamath tribe was considered out of poverty because each tribal member gained $40,000 from the sale of tribal land. While they had escaped poverty for a moment their economy still suffered from termination. Most families quickly spent the money and then had nothing except more lands that they were forced to sell in order obtain food for the family. After just a few years the Klamath tribe was in the same situation as many other tribes that were terminated.
Language
The Klamath language has not been passed on to the younger generations, and consequently it has survived only with those few elders who remember it, and in books where it has been preserved in writing.

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Cheyenne Tribe

http://www.cheyenneindian.com/cheyenne_history_001.htm

The Cheyenne tribe, "whose name means 'red talker' or 'people of a different speech" would hunt on the hills and prairies alongside the Missouri and Red rivers. In the 1700's the Cheyenne tribe would move their encampments in order to follow the herd of buffalo and by doing so they became expert hunters. Like many other tribes, hunting buffalo had become very important in order to live because the Cheyenne would use the buffalo for clothing, jewellery and tools as well as for food. However, when it comes to clothing the Cheyenne would also use buckskins as it is finer than buffalo therefore, they would predominately use buffalo for winter clothing and for creating tipi coverings.

Furthermore, it is believed there is a myth that surrounds the Cheyenne tribe because it was once said that the buffalo used to eat humans and so it became a race between animals and humans and in the end the humans won and so "the buffalo told their young to take with them some human flesh as provisions, which they stuck in front of their chests. It was according to this legend that the Cheyenne did not consume the flesh beneath the throat of the buffalo, as it was believed to be made from human flesh." In addition an "important figure within Cheyenne mythology is that of Sweet Medicine, a deity responsible for giving the Cheyenne four arrows, two bestowing them with power over men, two giving them power over the buffalo." As well as mythology it is also said that this particular tribe have many legends and stories which have been passed through generations.

As well as having many legends and stories it is said that "The Cheyenne are probably one of the most culturally rich nomadic tribes because of their sedentary origins." They are believed to be rich because "when the Lewis and Clark expedition encountered the Cheyenne in 1804, they documented the tribe as being well organized on a social level, and being "rich in dogs and horses."
"They Cheyenne exercised diplomacy when dealing with neighbouring tribes, with whom they would also trade. Over the years, as they grew more powerful and economically strong, rivalries began to form within their ranks, and the tribe was ultimately divided into two factions, the Northern Cheyenne, and the Southern Cheyenne." The division of this tribe, however was not the only disruption the Cheyenne people had to face because the Sand Creek massacre 1864 saw nearly two hundred men, women and children killed because the white settlers wanted to obtain more land. Therefore, the Cheyenne, both north and south tribes, had to relocate to Oklahoma.

"Slowly, over the years that followed the wars and many conflicts, the Cheyenne population was decimated. Many died of disease and starvation, while others were killed by soldiers. The remaining Cheyenne, not strong enough in numbers to continue fighting, were eventually assimilated them into their culture, and indoctrinated into the Christian faith." Therefore, over the years what started out has a very strong and wealthy tribe has had a challenging life and "today the Cheyenne population has grown from what was only about a hundred survivors, into one tribe including five thousand members, and owning two reservations. The Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho currently live in Oklahoma, while the Northern Cheyenne live on the Tongue River Indian reservation in south-eastern Montana."


Saturday, February 11, 2012

Critique of push

http://www.anovelreview.com/2010/07/book-review-push-by-sapphire.html

This website is a blog, by someone who enjoys reading many books and likes to give advise of praise and criticism on which are thought provoking, detailed, interesting or non descriptive. This allows the reader to be able to make a judgement for themselves whether they would enjoy the book for based on her recommendations.
The interesting thing about this blogger for the review of push, is that she is an middle aged African American women. She says that her favourite book is the holy bible, which tells us she is very christian, this could mean she either dislikes the brutality of the novel or may enjoy the realistic details of African American lives. She also tells us that she enjoys reading books from people of colour, again allowing us to create a better understanding of her and what she may find interesting and what her opinion on push may be about.

She opens her blog detailing about how it is now a film and the main plot about pregnancy and her parental abuse, this instantly sets the scene for the reader of what the book is about and what it contains. She also says 'for the first 30 pages, I'm thinking as i read ' the things we for through for the sake of literature. This is not my type of book. The reason i finally decided to read this book was that I'm learning to venture outside of my comfort zone; and i thought this was a touching yet traditional story.' I believe this too be true of many people and most may have felt like this some point through out the story as of the brutal scenes that are explicitly detailed. 

When analysing the book and character of precious, she speaks about her as if she is a real person, this creates a meaning that the blogger obviously feels close, sympathy and support for precious. This means the book has clearly spoke and interacted with her for Donna to feel such emotions for Precious.

Donna also writes some observation from the book, this means she has clearly read and understood the book and put her own ideas into the book. She makes a strong judgement in her observations of what kind of person would want to read this book. i totally disagree with this statement as i believe, although it is a horrible book in the sense of the plot and description of abuse, it is also uplifting in other ways and very inspirational.

too some extend i do agree with what Donna write buts more with the facts, rather than her own opinions on the book, as they are quite strong and what one person hates another would love for many other reasons.

'Push' by Sapphire

http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,293209,00.html

This review is found on Entertainement Weekly online in 1996. The review is overall quite positive, however their are some aspects of the novel that Margot Mifflin does criticise. Mifflin says 'Push — the poet Sapphire's debut novel — is only partially successful: Precious' phonetic dialect and stunted vocabulary inevitably flatten segments of her story.' I don't agree with this at all as the dialect Precious has represents who she is and where she is from. I don't see how someone's speech and language can 'flatten segments of the story.' In my opinion it adds effect to the story. Althoug i agree at first it is hard to adjust to the way in which Precious speaks, it doesn't take long to understand with ease what she is saying.
Mifflin continues in a positve manner by saying 'its sad to watch her revert to frustrated illiteracy when, after progressing by leaps and bounds, she's thrown a tragic, unexpected curveball.' I completely agree with this. As a reader you get to know Precious, and seeing her develop and improve through the novel, only to find out she is HIV positive is frustrating and upsetting.
Margot Mifflin ends by saying 'Precious gains control of her life through writing.' I however believe that Precious always had control of her life, and always seemed to know what she was going to do. Even through having two children, Precious always came across as someone with a big heart and for the circumstances she was in, was a very positive person and knew how to behave in certain situations.
However I don't think that Sapphire as an author received enough credit for tackling such a strong issue in such a brilliant manner that is not only disturbing and sad at times, but with the aspect of comedy.

Push by Sapphire

http://www.goodbooksandgoodwine.com/2010/03/review-of-push-by-sapphire.html

This website gives many reviews on different books ranging from different styles and genres. The review for the novel Push was written by April (Books and Wine) in March 2010 and throughout the analysis she writes how she had mixed views about the story and the way it had been written as she says "To be quite honest, I'm still on the fence about Push by Sapphire. Now, I know I probably should have enjoyed Push a lot more than I did, but it made me so uncomfortable."

Furthermore, April also goes onto say how she finds parts of the story disturbing such as when the character Precious desires sex and the reviewer writes "you find out she didn't get a choice in the matter, but then okay Push by Sapphire goes into her desiring sex from her rapist. I'm sorry that's gross." However, this section of the book just illiterates real life situations because it has been known that rape victims feel ashamed for what has happened but feel as if they need more at the same time even when they know they have been sexually violated. Therefore, people such as April may "find this hard to read and accept" but then again Sapphire is trying to express her views about how people such as African-Americans are treated, and the fact that the character Clareece Jones also known as Precious is seen to be obese and in poverty as well as unable to read or write makes her overall situation sad. Moreover, people may find this an exaggeration of the truth, but this may be one of the only ways to makes people realise the extend of the way in which people from different cultures and backgrounds live.

On the other hand, although in this particular critique of the book April is seen to not be that keen on the novel she does however say "I did like the dialect in Push by Sapphire, I felt it really reflect someone who isn't educated and is illiterate." She also follows up by saying how "Push by Sapphire is a quick, gripping read, and while we are on tragedy train, there is a beacon of hope throughout the book, despite everything, and that beacon is education." As well as this she also likes how what is written in the book "is provocative and feels true, as it's told in stream of consciousness."

Therefore, even though for the majority of the review she criticises the book upon the fact that she finds it "gross" and perhaps exaggerates the truth too much, to which she finds uncomfortable she "doesn't regret reading it" and there are aspects of the book she enjoys. In addition this is just one of many reviews of the book and there are many people that like this and I personally thought it was a sad read and went onto watch the film which reflects this factor very well.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Push - Critic Review

http://shelikestoread.com/2009/10/16/novel-review-p-u-s-h-by-sapphire/

This critique/review of Push, started with the basic written plot. The only thing I questioned in this was the reviewer's point of Miss Rain giving " Precious some questionable advice about being a mother." I tried to pinpoint this in the story, but could not recall any advice that I thought was "questionable" as such. The reviewer of this article did also mention how they thought it was "Surprising... [that] the author did not make Precious’ mother a drug addict". I honestly think that "crackers" were mentioned enough in area, and as her mother never left the house and Precious hated these "crackers", why Precious' mother wasn't a drug addict makes sense. It also creates more sympathy for Precious since her mother wasn't 'under the influence' when she abused her daughter.

After explaining the basic plot, the reviewer warns "potential viewers" this is not for the faint hearted. I guess it's easy to agree with that! The reviewer branded it as "eye-opening and educational", which I also easily agree with. It is hard to imagine that some people have to suffer with this daily, and that there are even worse cases out there. The reviewer summed up the ending nicely; "The ending left me with many questions... However, I feel that it was best for the author not to tie the end of the story in a neat bow... in real life, many of the issues faced... are never resolved. In that way, this book accurately reflects life". I defiantly agree with that too, and could not have put it better myself.

Overall I thought it was a good analysis and critique of the book - other than the issues I raised earlier. It's quite a basic one, expect for the last few paragraphs, but is more detailed than some of the reviews I looked at for the book!

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Pro and Anti Latino Immigration


h
ttp://immigrationmexicanamerican.blogspot.com/2012/01/anti-latino-hate-groups-support.html


This is a Pro website run by a "Mexican American". His tagline is "Discuss Immigration Issues with a Mexican American. Truth, Honesty and the American Way!"

This site interested me as for the obvious reason that it's an individual offering people who are either pro or anti latino immigration. The Individual's mission is that these people can talk with them "civilly, freely and safely thereby reducing the hate, anger and misunderstandings currently inherent in most of these discussions".

What drew my attention first was the links and pictures down the side - at first there is an image saying "I support the Dream Act". It is a bill to give those illegal immigrations a permanent residency to those of "good moral character" who have arrived in the US as minors, and graduated from US highschool. Some sites referred to them "Aliens", a few sites referred to them as children. So I assume those who use/d the term "aliens" are those who are anti immigration.

There was then a stamp the blog's owner - Dee - had made which had the blog's name written posted a picture of an angel with a United States flag saying GOB BLESS AMERICA.

After noticing that, I then turned to the main reason I was looking at the site - how they address issues. As it's a blog, they make a blog entry every time something political and unjust about Latino Immigration comes up, explaining why it's unjust (in Dee's eyes) and a little about the background. At the bottom of each post people can write their opinions on whether they agree with Dee or not - which usually starts an interesting debate between those who are anti and those who are pro.

Despite the name, Fair is an Anti Latino organization. Fair claims it aims to "seek to improve border security, to stop illegal immigration, and to promote immigration levels consistent with the national interest—more traditional rates of about 300,000 a year". The second site is less of an advocacy than the first, and reminds me of the presidential campaign sites. It was harder to find an Anti Lation organization, which is arguably a great sign, and easier to find reports on off-cases.

The site lists ways you can help, news and research. There's also facts and Quotes for those wanting to make an intellectual argument... The site provides a more collective point of view as it's trying to convince people it's everyone else speaking to the individual reading.

Friday, February 3, 2012

Latino Immigration

http://as.americas-society.org/group.php?id=22
The America's Society was established in 1965 by David Rockefeller. The Website 'supports the further intergration of immigrant workers into businesses and local communities.' The America's Society, together with 'Council of the America's' produce America's Quarterly, a policy journal for the Western Hemisphere. In these times of critical debate on immigration legislation and the backlash against immigrants, AS/COA believe that greater integration and appreciation for immigration to society will ultimately help advance immigration reform. The America's Society mainly focuses on advancing the immigration of latino's/hispanics, not specifying where it could be improved or how it could be improved. Although they do no focus on helping those who want to immigrate, they do focus on trying to help those who have immigrated adjust and fit in to their new surroundings.

http://www.americanimmigrationcontrol.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=85&Itemid=55
AIC (Americans for Immigration Control) was founded in 1983 and is based in Monterey, Virginia. 'AIC is about deporting those illegal aliens already in the U.S.' AIC are in favour of enforcing stricter immigration laws and increasing penalties. AIC try to encourage all citizens to join their efforts to secure American Borders. This website continually refers to the latino immigrants as 'illegal aliens', giving the impression that they do no belong on the planet, let alone in the U.S. The website also has a list of solutions, one of which is to increase the manpower of U.S border control. I feel like this website is extremely negative towards Latino immigrants without actually giving them a chance. They do not take the time to think of the possibility that these 'illegal aliens' may bring positive opportunities to the U.S. Not only that but I think the AIC has the assumption that they are all illegal, with no reference to those immigrating in a perfectly legal manner. Surely America, as the land of Liberty would allow these immigrants into their country?

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Latino Immigration

http://www.nclr.org/index.php/issues_and_programs/immigration/integrating_immigrants/

NCLA (national council of La Raza) is the largest national Latino civil rights and advocacy organisation in the United States.

"The work of NCLA and its Affiliates on behalf of immigrants builds on America's identity as a nation of immigrants by promoting fairness in the law and advancing a number of ways to help immigrants fully enter the mainstream of American life"

This organisation is dominated by the fact the Latinos should have the right to education, home ownership, health and economic security as well as being able to have the American dream. It is reasons such as the fact that the American identity is ever changing and the citizens and governments only take into account the illegal immigrants and assume that the legal immigrants are helping cause the issues that can be seen at the boarders in places such as California and Texas. Furthermore, NCLA are also trying to help restore order with illegal/undocumented immigrants in America by trying to allow them to obtain legal status, by giving them the chance to learn English and by assuming "the rights and responsibilities of citizenship while creating smart enforcement policies." As well as trying to restore order this organisation is also enacting proactive measures to allow the success of new immigrants moving into communities:

"By working with grassroots organisation at the state and local levels, NCLR seeks to defeat anti-immigrant initiatives and propel policies that best integrate immigrants into U.S. society." In addition "the nations most punitive immigration law, Arizona SB 1070, was signed into law on April 23, 2010, causing a ripple effect across the nation" this act is one of the strictest anti-illegal immigration measures. The image below emphasises the effect it had on the nation:

629 490

Whereas as expected anti Latino immigration groups and organisations were pleased with the result of the Arizona SB 1070.

This particular website discusses anti-immigration groups such as the Ku Klux Klan and neo-Nazis, two extremist groups known for there violent behaviour in order to stand up for what they believe in. Furthermore, due to anti-immigration, coalitions have been formed in order to control this problem as illegal immigrants from countries such as Mexico are causing issues such as drug trafficking and people smuggling as well as sex trafficking. In 2008 the coalitions "joined together with local citizen groups located far from the Mexican/United States border with virulently anti-Latino border vigilant groups that send armed volunteers to patrol the border." Moreover, other coalition groups have also tried to exploit immigrants for issues such as traffic congestion and damage to the public infrastructure by producing mainstream newspaper adverts.

Although these groups are unhappy with the current situation and issues immigrants bring to the United States they could end up causing more disruption than they think because as previously stated the identity of America is changing, and they need to accept this because the immigrants are just trying to obtain a better quality of life even if it means entering the country with the documents required. Furthermore, these "anti-illegal immigration advocacy groups" can say things such as they are "third world invaders" but at the end of the day they are not going to be able to completely stop immigration from Latino's because they will still prosper for a better lifestyle, which may mean going to America as it is seen as a prospers country.