New Code Of Conduct For Internet Providers Who Operate In Totalitarian States:

February 18, 2006.

TO:
Chairman Smith,
Subcommittee on Africa, Global Human Rights, and International Operations
The Committee on International Relations
2170 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515


Dear Representative Smith, Representative Leach, members of the Committee on International Relations, Subcommittees on Africa, Global Human Rights and International Operations and Asia and the Pacific,

We at the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) strongly agree with your Committee's concern that while United States Internet companies have the power to act as a force for good, they are increasingly becoming unwitting conduits for repression in authoritarian countries. EFF is the leading, and oldest organization working to promote freedom online and we understand the technical and policy issues well. We host one of the most linked-to websites on the Internet and remain one of the premier sources for information about Internet law and policy in the world.

Because of this, we understand how, without careful planning, internet routers can be turned into powerful wiretapping tools; web email servers can become a honeypot of stored communications plundered by state police to identify dissidents; and blogging services and search engines can turn from aids to free speech to easily-censorable memory holes. While we believe strongly in the opportunities created by the Internet and promoted by companies like Yahoo, Google, Microsoft and Cisco, we also recognize the risks created when they decide to do business in repressive countries such as China.

In considering how these companies might construct their services to best serve global human rights, we believe that simple guidelines, consciously followed, could significantly limit the damage caused by corporate engagement with these regimes. Both the U.S. government and American Internet corporations have a opportunity, and a duty, to defend human rights. While the best course of action of companies concerned about possible involvement in human rights violations and censorship is to avoid repressive regimes altogether, we understand that some companies will not choose that course.

For those that do not, we believe that working together, either under a voluntary code of conduct or statutory or regulatory requirements, these companies can turn their involvement in oppressive systems from an inevitable human rights liability to a neutral or maybe even positive act of engagement.

In order to aid you in your efforts, we make the following suggestions of topics that you should include in your upcoming discussions with these companies.

Limit Data Collection and Data Retention

The most dangerous information that Internet companies can have about their users is personally identifiable information. For those living under repressive governments, their Internet service’s ability to identify them as the person who made the search query about “democracy,” or sent the email reporting about human rights violations can literally make the difference between life and death.

With the stakes so high in countries like China, no Internet company should gather more information than they absolutely need about their customers and no Internet company should keep that information any longer than is absolutely necessary to provide the requested service.

Neither China nor any other major repressive country that we are aware of currently requires Internet companies to gather or keep identifying information in most circumstances. In order for companies to avoid becoming agents that enable ongoing human rights violations, they must change their current policies to avoid collecting personally identifiable data in the first instance and avoid keeping any data they collect any longer than absolutely necessary.

Increase Transparency and Bear Witness

To the extent possible, Internet companies should document government censorship efforts. Google and Microsoft have taken first steps in this direction, but whenever and wherever possible, Internet companies should note when websites have been removed or search items filtered away, and explain under what power the government forced them to act to remove content or hand over data. The companies should have a clear procedure for engaging with law enforcement, and regularly publish or report to Congress statistics, and case studies of how such procedures have worked in practice. Those companies should also document and publicize exactly what deal has been struck with the repressive governments. If they cannot publish the information within the country, they should do so without.

Even if companies are forbidden to reveal such crucial information even outside the country, they should still keep track. Bearing witness to human rights violations may be upsetting, but if honestly performed, can help in the inevitable truth and reconciliation process that should follow a people's return to freedom.

Doing business in developing countries with poor human rights records can be an act of optimism, built on a hope that by engaging and expanding the horizons of such a state, the values of human rights will eventually permeate the society.

When and if such a transformation occurs, it is imperative for lasting peace that that country's people can discover the truth about their past. Internet companies who choose to do business in repressive companies should ensure that when the truth can come out, it does.

Don't Do Direct Business with Forces of State Oppression

Companies should be prohibited from providing intentional ongoing support and assistance to those who abuse human rights in foreign countries. While many products such as filtering software, Internet monitoring programs and programs to unlock protected data can have multiple uses, American companies should not be actively and knowingly providing services that facilitate censorship or repression.

Offer Opportunistic Encryption with Internet Services

Internet companies like Google have easy technological shifts they can make to protect their users in repressive countries. One of the greatest gifts for evading surveillance and censorship online is built into every web browser: strong, near unbreakable encryption of web traffic. This encryption is generally reserved for high-security communications, such as banking and webmail applications. Many of the companies speaking today offer the majority of their services unencrypted: but it would be possible to offer the same facilities using optional Secure Socket Layer (SSL) encryption turned on. A search engine that allowed you to visit it as https://www.google.cn/ as well as http://www.google.cn/ would make little difference to the end-user. But repressive governments would be unable monitor or record what searches were being entered and what results were being provided.

Support Technologies that Innovate Around Censorship and Surveillance

Censorship of foreign sites by oppressive regimes is a limitation of free trade and free expression. The Internet benefits from technology that lets communication pass unhindered from one end to end. And citizens everywhere deserve the right to privacy. Free governments benefit from sponsoring anti-censorship and anonymizing software, such as those supported by the United States' International Broadcasting Bureau. But companies, too, stand to gain from investing in development that might lead to an opening of previously closed societies. If U.S. companies find that oppressive governments block or impede their Internet services, they should not simply give in to the threat. By working together on ways to surmount Internet control they will not only be providing wanted new products to 1.3 billion new customers, they will help open trade and communications between all countries, and all citizens.

Thank you for your attention to this important topic. We look forward to continuing to work with you. Please feel free to contact us to discuss these or other ideas further.

Sincerely,

---------------------------------
Adam Smith (D-WA 9th)
CC: Maria Cantwell (D-WA)

The Immigrant & Family Expectations!

Febryary 15-2006:



The Immigrant & Family Expectations:


Ever since the arrival of The Mayflower pilgrims, immigrants to The American shores have had family ties that haunted them throughout their lives. Some came from extended families in Asia, China, & Latin America. Where family responsibility rested primarily with the male offspring, who very often occupied the role of elder brother and provider.

Most of these men of different ages are expected to remember and contribute financially, to relatives back in their homelands. This is a cultural expectation and responsibility for most of these men. Who by and large have been educated, and re-oriented to the culture here in America, financially secure, and respected within their adopted communities, or groups.

But the cultural responsibility to support family left behind is never over, until all related kin are either comfortably provided for, or allowed to emigrate to America, and experience whatever benefits they could have for self improvement. Even some marriages are arranged by relatives back home, who may or may not identify one's potential mate or spouse.

And that custom is very often the tie that binds the successful male, and to show family and friends how successful he is here in America.

Failing to accommodate these cultural expectations for many men, can be disastrous mentally, socially, and spiritually. Because of the filial ties or connection, such cultures maintain among themselves. It is not a rare thing to hear an immigrant complaining of the dire need to earn more money to send back home to mother, or relatives.

This demand upon his earnings and expected responsibilities, cause many men to drink, use drugs, and get involved in criminal activities, so that they could accumulate enough money to support relatives back home.

Then there is the ethnic or racial expectations that must be considered too.

Some immigrant men/women may meet and fall in love with someone of a different ethnic or racial group. He/she could never contemplate marriage, because it would conflict with cultural expectations, that he/she must honor. Such as marrying within his/her own clan, group, or race. And those who are brave enough to defy tradition, risk castigation from family, friends, relatives, and fellow countrymen back home.

So regardless of whether you are male or female, as a foreigner in a foreign land, you are expected to represent those who are less fortunate than yourself back home. And everything you do, achieve, say, (positively or negatively), impact your fellow countrymen/women here, and in your homeland.

Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Guyanese.
New York City.
http://360.yahoo.com/derryck_mimbari
http://my.opera.com/BringBaka/
http://boards.biography.com/profile.jspa?userID=500000003

Have A Happy-Peaceful-Pleasant & Joyful Valentine:

Hello!

Today Valentine is celebrated by people all over the world. You may or may not be celebrating this day particularly, but whatever you do.

Do so with reverence, respect for self, peacefully, joyfully, and with temperance.

Have a Happy-Pleasant & Joyful Valentine!

Om Shanti.
Derryck.

Can Google Be Trusted?

February 09, 2006



Consumers Should Not Use New Google Desktop!


San Francisco - Google today announced a new "feature" of its Google Desktop software that greatly increases the risk to consumer privacy. If a consumer chooses to use it, the new "Search Across Computers" feature will store copies of the user's Word documents, PDFs, spreadsheets and other text-based documents on Google's own servers, to enable searching from any one of the user's computers. EFF urges consumers not to use this feature, because it will make their personal data more vulnerable to subpoenas from the government and possibly private litigants, while providing a convenient one-stop-shop for hackers who've obtained a user's Google password.

"Coming on the heels of serious consumer concern about government snooping into Google's search logs, it's shocking that Google expects its users to now trust it with the contents of their personal computers," said EFF Staff Attorney Kevin Bankston. "If you use the Search Across Computers feature and don't configure Google Desktop very carefully-and most people won't-Google will have copies of your tax returns, love letters, business records, financial and medical files, and whatever other text-based documents the Desktop software can index.

The government could then demand these personal files with only a subpoena rather than the search warrant it would need to seize the same things from your home or business, and in many cases you wouldn't even be notified in time to challenge it. Other litigants-your spouse, your business partners or rivals, whoever-could also try to cut out the middleman (you) and subpoena Google for your files."

The privacy problem arises because the Electronic Communication Privacy Act of 1986, or ECPA, gives only limited privacy protection to emails and other files that are stored with online service providers-much less privacy than the legal protections for the same information when it's on your computer at home.

And even that lower level of legal protection could disappear if Google uses your data for marketing purposes. Google says it is not yet scanning the files it copies from your hard drive in order to serve targeted advertising, but it hasn't ruled out the possibility, and Google's current privacy policy appears to allow it.

"This Google product highlights a key privacy problem in the digital age," said Cindy Cohn, EFF's Legal Director. "Many Internet innovations involve storing personal files on a service provider's computer, but under outdated laws, consumers who want to use these new technologies have to surrender their privacy rights.

If Google wants consumers to trust it to store copies of personal computer files, emails, search histories and chat logs, and still 'not be evil,' it should stand with EFF and demand that Congress update the privacy laws to better reflect life in the wired world."

For more on Google's data collection:
http://news.com.com/FAQ+When+Google+is+not+your+friend/2100-1025_3

Contact:

Kevin Bankston
Staff Attorney
Electronic Frontier Foundation
bankston@eff.org

-------------------------------------------



AOL, Yahoo, and Goodmail: Taxing Your Email for Fun and Profit!


Remember the famous email rumor that made the rounds in the 1990s: "Congress is trying to tax your Internet connection, write in now!"

Well what wasn't true in the 1990s is apparently coming true in 2006, only the beneficiaries won't be Uncle Sam -- they will be Yahoo, AOL, and a company ironically called Goodmail. Yahoo and AOL have announced that they will guarantee access to your email inbox for email senders who pay $.0025 per message. They will override their own spam filters and webbug-strippers, and deliver the mail directly with a "certified" notice. In the process, it is likely that they will treat more of your email as spam, and email you're expecting won't be delivered.

This isn't really an anti-spam measure as much as a "pay to speak" measure. In fact, it probably won't diminish spam or phishing at all. Yahoo and AOL are ransoming your email boxes so that they can shake down ordinary people and organizations, whether individuals mailing their local bowling league or political groups communicating with their national memberships.

Email being basically free isn't a bug. It's a feature that has driven the digital revolution, allowing groups to scale up from a dozen friends to a hundred people who love knitting to half-a-million concerned citizens without a major bankroll. Spam is a real problem demanding real solutions, but taxing the Internet isn't one of them.

EFF urges AOL and Yahoo subscribers and those who communicate with them to tell them that taxing email is not the right way to go.

For more on the threat Goodmail poses:
http://www.eff.org/deeplinks/archives/004398.php

---------------------------------------------

Israel Refuses To Deal With HAMAS:

http://www.nytimes.com/

February 7, 2006:

By STEVEN ERLANGER


Israel to Cooperate With Palestinian Authority for Now will continue to cooperate with the Palestinian Authority and its interim government so long as Hamas is not represented there, the acting prime minister, Ehud Olmert, said Monday. He said Israel would maintain diplomatic relations with the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, known as Abu Mazen, whose position was not directly affected by the sweeping victory of Hamas in the legislative elections late last month.

"I have no interest in harming Palestinian Authority chairman Abu Mazen, as long as he doesn't cooperate with Hamas and as long as the Palestinian government isn't led by Hamas," Mr. Olmert told an Israeli-European economic conference in Tel Aviv. "As long as it doesn't contain a Hamas government, we will speak and cooperate" with the Palestinian Authority "with the intention of strengthening those who acknowledge the right of Israel to live without terror and within safe borders," Mr. Olmert said.
As Palestinian president, Mr. Abbas oversees the security services as commander in chief.

But when Yasar Arafat was alive, the United States pressed for the creation of a new post of prime minister and a cabinet, both approved by the legislature. Under that arrangement, the prime minister is chairman of the Palestinian security council, and the interior minister is in charge of the various security forces. The election of Hamas, which will control the prime minister's post and the government, has made those arrangements awkward for the United States and for Mr. Abbas, who says he intends to try to regain full control over the Palestinian security forces and their budget. Israel and the West were taken aback by the victory of Hamas, a group they consider a terrorist organization, and are now looking to Mr. Abbas as if he, whom they criticized for weakness when his Fatah faction controlled the government, has somehow become stronger after Fatah's defeat by Hamas.

Mr. Olmert spoke one day after his government decided to transfer some $54 million in tax and customs revenues, collected by Israel but owed to the Palestinians, to the Palestinian Authority. But he warned that the money would not be given to a government containing Hamas figures.
Israel was under considerable pressure from the United States to release the money so the Palestinians could pay 140,000 employees, including some 58,000 members of the security services. But the payment was sharply criticized by the Likud Party as a gift to Hamas.

The United States is trying to put off the day that Hamas takes control until after the Israeli elections on March 28, so that financing can continue to flow to pay salaries. James D. Wolfensohn, the representative of the United States, the European Union, Russia and the United Nations - known as the quartet - will visit the Arab countries in the Persian Gulf region to raise up to $300 million for the Palestinian Authority. Even with the tax and customs receipts, the authority still has a monthly deficit of $50 million to $60 million. Saudi Arabia has pledged $100 million, and some states, like Qatar, have pledged a few million more to get the authority through January and February.

The World Bank trust fund withheld a payment of $60 million in December when the Palestinian Authority broke its commitment to be more fiscally responsible. The money is mostly from the European Union, and there is pressure from Washington to pay the money anyway. The World Bank would prefer to give the money back to individual donor countries for them to pay the Palestinians, rather than undermine its demands for structural reform.

The Palestinians, meanwhile, are dealing with the embarrassing fallout of a major corruption scandal among Fatah leaders of the Palestinian Authority.
Mr. Abbas ordered the investigation kept quiet until the Palestinian elections were over, but the Palestinian attorney general, Ahmed alMeghani, disclosed a corruption scandal on Sunday that could involve the stealing of billions of dollars by high-ranking Palestinian officials.

Mr. Meghani said he had arrested 25 people and issued warrants for others, some of whom who have fled the territories since Hamas won on Jan. 25. The disclosures are awkward, given the Palestinian Authority's current need for money. Hamas leaders gathered Monday in Cairo for talks with the Egyptians on a new Palestinian government. Hamas leaders have made contradictory statements about whether they would deal with Israel, and whether they would seek money from Iran, which opposes any peace treaty with Israel and already helps to finance Hamas and Islamic Jihad, another radical faction.

Separately, the Israeli organization Peace Now said Monday that the number of Israeli settlers living in occupied territory in the West Bank - not including East Jerusalem, which Israel annexed - increased in 2005 by about 7,000 to 250,000 settlers, even after the pullout of some 9,000 Israeli settlers from the Gaza Strip and northern West Bank last summer.

The settler population is increasing at 5.5 percent a year, Peace Now said, compared with a 1.8 percent for the overall Israeli population. No new West Bank settlement outposts were established in 2005, but 52 illegal outposts were established since March 2001, when Ariel Sharon became prime minister. Before his stroke, he promised Washington to get rid of them, though the Israeli government says that only 24 outposts constructed since March 2001 remain.

An additional 200,000 Israelis live in East Jerusalem, which much of the world regards as occupied but which Israel considers an integral part of its capital. Also on Monday, Israeli forces fired rockets at a car in northern Gaza, killing two Palestinians who it said were members of Al Aksa Martyrs Brigades.

http://www.nytimes.com/ref/membercenter/help/copyright.html
The New York Times Company
http://www.nytco.com/


CONCLUSION:

Regardless of whether the Israeli government wants to talk to Hamas or not, does not make any difference to the reality that HAMAS is the legitimate government of Palestine. And if Israel truly wants to continue the peace process, they should extend a hand of welcome to Hamas in 'good faith,' and hope that this gesture will indicate to Hamas that yesterday's mistakes and failed efforts belong to the past.

Now is the time for a new start in the direction of peace and co-operation, that hopefully will lead to the creation of a Palestinian sovereign state, existing alongside Israel in peace!

Derryck S. Griffith
Educator-Advocate & Blogger.

What Is FREE Speech realy?

What Is Free Speech Really:

Free speech to my understanding, is the ability for the individual/s in society to voice his or her opinions, via the established media, the Internet, or face to face, or in a social setting. The right of free speech is as natural as mating or procreation. And to control or prevent this natural right to communicate with fellow humans, is evil, controlling, and inhibits normal human interaction.

But on the other hand, free speech must also be mindful of content, target audience, and the effect that the substance of that communique will have on the body politic, or social setting. Free speech must be mindful of divulging information entrusted to the receiver in confidence, or classified. Failing to observe confidential information that was intended for the receiver's eyes or ears only, connotes dis-respect, and blackmail.

That is why in every culture there is an established code of conduct with regard to individual privacy. Failing to observe certain parameters in social interaction, and social discourses, creates a situation of distrust, fear, mischief, and contempt.

It was Sir. Winston Churchill who said prior to the Normandy Invasion these words. "Loose lips-sink ships." This was in regard to the secrecy of the forthcoming invasion of Normandy, and the lethal consequences that can result, should the Germans get wind of these plans.

Therefore, free speech has personal responsibility that goes with it. Disregarding circumstance, custom, discretion, and personal privacy, can have dire consequences when we allow free rein , or wanton dis-regard for it's consequences.

Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator & Advocate.
http://profiles.yahoo.com/derryck-mimbari
http://my.opera.com/BringBaka/
http://faceparty.com/derryck_mimbari,

Where Would The New Black Leadership Come From?

Question:
With the demise of our Baby Boomer's Black Leadership,
where will the new Black leadership come from?



Yes, we are witnessing the demise of a generation of stalwarts currently, that says in no un-certain terms, that a new breed of cadres must be prepared to take up the mantle.

The Baby Boom advocates will have to take up the slack that is now available, and lead in a different direction, hitherto only dreamed of.
Post September 11-2001, has created a new national paranoia. Internet & telephone snooping upon American citizens, made legal by a conservative Federal administration, and Senate. This new political reality has induced fears within the commonweal, hitherto un-heard of.

We are told that the "Big Bad Wolf " is at our doorstep, waiting to pounce upon us when we open the door. And this fallacy, has created suspicion for anything foreign, including people.

What the new Black leadership has to contemplate on now, is to get Black & Latin Americans to realize that we are the political, and economic minorities in this country. And that any issue/s that affect one group, affects the other group, directly or in-directly. We can no longer cling to our historic Democratic leadership.

We have been conned for too long!

Now is the time to look at the issues, and for whom it will benefit the most. And most of all, investigate any candidate who uses his/her platform to target Blacks & Latinos, in order to get an advantsge at the polls, but is not seriously interested in our concerns and issues.

Om Shanti.
Derryck.

http://profiles.yahoo.com/derryck-mimbari
http://profiles.gaywired.com/Mimbari,
http://my.opera.com/BringBaka/
http://faceparty.com/derryck_mimbari,

Freedom Of Speech Is Not freedom To Insult:

Freedom Of Speech Is Not freedom To Insult:

The recent publication of the prophet Mohammed in a newspaper in Denmark, and repeated in France, was a direct insult to Moslems internationally. This caricature the prophet Mohammed was (among other things), portrayed wearing a sash with a lighted fuse in it. Which could be interpreted by viewers as indicative of a suicide bomber.

These malicious and insulting acts at portraying the messenger of Islam, only conveys contempt for that religion, and it's followers. Some western governments declared that under democracy, people have the right to free speech, via the media or press. But in the Moslem world, it is viewed as an insult to their religious personage, and an insult to Islam .

Thousands took to the streets of several Islamic/Moslem oriented countries, in protest to this outrage. Some shouted for Jihad, while others shouted death to the UK, death to the West, and death to the infidels of Islam. Others asked whether the West would have accepted such an insult to Christianity or Jesus!

Whatever the motive, this act was contemptuous, hateful, tactless, and bigoted. What on earth was this person thinking when he/she decided to publish these caricatures, in a climate of severe religious sensitivities, especially in light of the current wars in Iraq & Afghanistan.

I sincerely hope that reason, restraint, and rational thinking will prevail.

Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator & Advocate.

Yahoo's PRUDISH HYPOCRISY:

Yahoo's Prudish Hypocrisy:


Hello!

Yahoo's prudish hypocrisy is indicative of the current American climatic obsession with nudity. These mother fuckers are so sexually frustrated, that they are crying 'wolf' for no reason at all.

I see all over this society Buses, Bill Boards, and on television Semi-Naked Women in Bras and Slinky Panties in the commercials. But when a semi-naked Male Advert or Bill Board, Post in a Blog on this web site. Yahoo gets the jitters, and start deleting them.

This nation is so fucked up as a people, that I pray they will get their sexuality and sexual needs in order (SOON), because this is becoming a plague for us who are realistic, and don't have these ass hole inhibitions!

Om Shanti.
Derryck.

Rape Of Minors & Infanticides!

January 25-2006:


Rape Of Minors & Infanticide:

It seems like a new phase of infanticides and the raping of minors in New York and other cities in America. Only recently we had the killing of little Nix Marie Brown, alleged to have been jointly conducted by her mother and stepfather.

Today (Jan 25-2006), another child was dunked to the bottom of a bathtub by her mother. But the child survived this time around. Breakins and rape in the five boroughs of New York City is also on the rise. And Yet the Mayor is saying, that crime is at the lowest it has been in his city.

I believe this phenomenon is fueled by poverty, mental illness, economic devastation, lack of hope, helplessness, and drug use/addiction. All of these factors play a part in who is affected, and who would be inclined to commit these crimes. The predominant Black & Latino communities in New York City has the most poverty, lack of economic opportunities, joblessness, un-employment, overcrowded housing, and lack of adequate and safe housing.

Let no one tell me that this phenomenon is fueled by a lack of faith, religion, religious belief, or family instability. God or religion has nothing to do with these depravities.

When there is no chance for a decent livelihood, abject poverty, lack of economic opportunities, un-employment, etc., then people tend to turn to drugs, drink, child abuse, self abuse, and environmental mischief.

Until the social, economic, and environmental issues, that lend for this type of behavior is corrected or remedied, this behavioral pattern will continue to haunt our communities.

Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Grffiith.
Educator & Advocate.
Manhattan.
New York City.

How Will I Recognize My Soul Mate?

How Will I Recognize My Soul Mate?

I take this opportunity to explain what I believe is the concept of 'A
Soul Mate.' This is something that many people talk about or seek,
without truly
understanding what it really means:

Finding a 'Soul Mate' is like finding LOVE! When it is sought, you
never find it. It just happens to you, and in time, you come to realize
that you are in love
with this person.

He or she may not necessarily have those same feelings for you though!

Well, the same with finding a Soul Mate.

* Who can tell what form your Soul Mate will take, if or when you find
him or her?

* And what makes anyone think that their 'Soul Mate' will be Gay,
Bisexual, Heterosexual, or Lesbian?

* And how will you know if this person that you seem to connect to so
well, is really your Soul Mate?

These questions are difficult to answer correctly, and no one has the
correct answer. But I feel if or when you ever meet your Soul Mate, he
or she may never be what you would have liked, or expected.

And that should be no surprise either!

I think FATE or Destiny does not operate the way we think or feel it
should. I also think you get what is destined for you to get, and no
more.

Having said that, I also believe that if or when that special person
and you connect, the thought of having found your 'Soul mate' will
never occur to either of
you. You will just enjoy, share, and be pleased with each other so
much, that the love, sharing, and compatability you share would erase
any idea of such
matters.

In fact, you will just Live, Love, and Share everything with each other
NATURALLY!

Om Shanti.
Derryck.
Yahoo IM: derryckgrifith
and derryck_mimbari
AOL IM: Ecmimbari

Witch Hunt For Sex Offenders In Schools:

Witch Hunt For Sex Offenders In Schools:


This issue is currently being debated in the British House of Commons. And it's most vocal advocate Ms. Ruth Kelly (Member of Parliament), said they should be banned from teaching in British schools, and advocated for a witch hunt against them!

I understand the member of parliament's concern, but I do not support her claim that there should be a man hunt, or witch hunt against them. Because that would be taking the law into one's own hands. And as a member of parliament, she should be the least, to make such ridiculous pronouncements.

I would suggest that all former convicted sex offenders be dis-allowed to teach in schools that teach young children or minors. And that there should be some public notice via the media, notifying the commonweal whenever a sex offender is released from prison, and his/her known whereabouts. Also all potential teacher's criminal records must be provided, before being hired in any public school.

This should be able to restrict such felons from getting into that occupation. But still there are those who are sex offenders, but have not been caught, or convicted as yet. So there is no fool proof method to prevent such slippage.

But something in this regard would be a rational step to make in that direction.

Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator & Advocate.
http://360.yahoo.com/derryckgrifith
http://360.yahoo.com/derryck_mimbari
http://blog.myspace.com/45585312

With PRIDE & Some REGRET-I Remember!

With PRIDE & Some REGRET-I Remember!

The Guyana National Service Para-military institution was an off shoot of the former Guyana Youth Corps. The Youth Corps was intended (if my memory serves me correctly), to encourage young people to cultivate, develop, and settle in the hinterlands of Guyana, thereby allowing for the development and migration inward, from our coastal belt.

This institution had it's flaws from the inception. Politics, mis-management, and other internal troubles hindered it's development in any meaningful way. The National Service Institution was intended to do the same things, but with a military twist to it. Unemployed Youth from 16 to 21 were primarily targeted for recruitment, and encouraged via the media, and political press, to join.

They were told of the socio-economic and educational benefits to be derived therefrom. And the opportunities that will be provided after serving three years as pioneers. It was to be voluntary at first, and if deemed necessary, legislation would be enacted to make it mandatory.

This idea was not a very popular one with the masses. Opposing views here and there about the perceived ills that may result, when large numbers of young girls and boys, occupying the same spaces far away from their families, and proper supervision. But these concerns did not deter the political administration at the time, from going ahead with plans and implementation.

The GNS ( this abrev will be used hereafter), started some time in the 1970's, with three major locations. Kimbia, Papaya & Tumatumari. These were located in the hinterlands.

The Kimbia location dealt primarily with basic para-military training for the pioneers (as these youths were called), cotton planting and harvesting. Black eye peas, and other cash crops, were grown to feed the pioneers and staff on that location, and some sent to other locations as well.

Papaya was the location that dealt primarily with military training skills, political education/orientation, etc.

Tumatumari as well did some of the above and much more. I cannot say precisely, what was obtained at Tumatumari, because I only did a short stint for three months at Kimbia, as mandatory orientation. At the completion, I was sent to The GNS-Supply Store in Georgetown, to continue serving after leaving Kimbia.

I was involved in the building of The GNS Sports Complex. As a matter of fact, most Georgetown based personnel were expected to do some work there when ordered to do so. I was also ordered to 'cut sugar cane' on the Sugar estates on the East Coast of Demerara, when the cane cutters were on strike. The political leadership, under the late Forbes Burhnam ensured, that we did the cutting of the sugar cane, which was ripe and ready for cutting. Disregarding the official strike by workers there!

Training to use firearms was mandatory on all GNS locations. I did not have this privilege though. I guess because I was a staff member on orientation at Kimbia. Several pioneer veterans for different reasons were killed, either by careless use of the weapons, accidents, or just indiscipline. I was also ordered to go on 'Funeral detail' several times.

I went with pride during these funerals, because I knew of the hardships, difficulties, and even environmental dangers, which most of these youths had to endure. I eventually left the GNS in 1975, after some re-structuring was being done.

My view was, that they were experiencing some Managerial re-shuffling, and Top-management overhauling. I took this opportunity to get out as fast as I could, after serving two & one half years. But I shall always remember my sojourn there, and the hardships, and military discipline, which we were subjected to, and the lofty ideals that was originally conceived.

It was a pity it's implementation went so badly!

Derryck S. Griffith.
Manhattan. New York City.
http://profiles.yahoo.com/derryckgrifith
http://profiles.yahoo.com/derryck_mimbari


RELATED INFORMATION:

Director General & Asst. Commissioner Of Police:
Norman Mc Lean:

Asst. Director General-Administration:
Charwin Burhnam:


LOCATIONS:

1.Kimbia:- The Agricultural Camp, eg Cotton Gin:

2.Tumatumari:- The military training camp:

3.Papaya:- Military & other matters:

4.New River:- Border patrol/security, etc:

GNS River Vessel:- 'The Jaimito,'

ACHIEVEMENTS:

* GNS Sports Complex:
Was built primarily by servicemen/women's labor:

* Sugar Cane detail/cutters on the sugar estates, during the months of strike action by cane cutters.

* Planted and harvested black-eye peas & cotton for local consumption & export trade at Kimbia.

* The Great March by the pioneer youths, led by Norman Mc Lean-Director General.

Non-violence & The Civil Rights Movement In The USA:

Mahatma Ghandi of India was able to use non-violence as a collective front against British colonial occupation, because he knew at that time that Indians were no match against the British occupiers, should they use violent means.

The overwhelming firepower of the British Raj would have annihilated them by the thousands. And they would not have achieved anything possible with that strategy. So he encouraged and used the non-violent strategy, as his rallying cry for national and international support, leading eventually to Independence.

Rev. Martin Luther King saw the wisdom in that strategy. Because he realized that if the Blacks here in America used violent opposition against the unjust southern laws, then they too would have experienced overwhelming force from the White military authorities. And that would give the Whites license to continue the slaughter, murders, hangings, and wanton killing of Blacks in the American southern states.

The decision to use this strategy was not an easy one for Dr. King. He was advised against this by his own family, congregation, and supporters alike. But he insisted that if not now, when, and if not us, who would give us our civil and constitutional rights.

And for this, he will always be remembered, as the first Black Civil Rights leader who stood for non-violent action, to attain our civil liberties. Unlike his contemporary Malcolm Little (alias Malcolm X), who believed and advocated for the owning of firearms, for self & property protection, against attacks by Whites.

It was when he became a Moslem and visited the Kaaba at Medina, during the annual Moslem 'Haj' and saw the thousands of Moslems of all colors and ethnicities gathered there as Moslems in prayer to one God/Allah. Then he realized that racism, segregation, or discrimination of any sort was an evil, that had to be fought against with love, understanding, knowledge, forgiveness, education, and legislation.

Malcolm X and Martin Luther King were both assassinated for what they believed and fought for. But they were both striving for the civil rights of Black people in America. Even though at times their methods seem to conflict, and even though the were never able to join forces as united front in the struggle. The results of the efforts made by them, and thousands like themselves, will always be remembered and revered.

Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.

What Codes Of Conduct Do You Live By?

What Codes Of Conduct Do You Live By?

1. What 3 codes of conduct motivate your actions?
a. Integrity.
b. Self-respect.
c. Frankness.

2 What 3 material items do you value more than any others?
a. Money.
b. Physical privacy.
c. A Roof over my head.

3. With 3 months to live, and good health, what would you do?
a. Get rid of all physical paraphanalia.
b. Get as much sex as I possibly can.

4. Are you shy or do you like to be the center of attention?
a. By nature I am shy, but i've leasrned how to deal with that.
b. And by nature, I am a bit eccentric. I am also PISCES.

5. What are 3 things someone would say about you when you die?
a. He was very private.
b. He had very few obvious friends.
c. He did not mix with any and everybody.
d. He was also very political in his views.

6. What are your fears?
a. The fear of abject poverty.

7. What brings you joy?
a. Peace of mind.
b. lots of money.

8. What makes you angry?
a Ignoramouses.
b. People who call attention to themselves like laughing too loudly:
c. Talks to much:
d. People who aretoo nosey.

9. What are you personal strengths?
a.My intelligence:
b Wordly experiences:
c.Ability to observe people very well:

10. How do you define love?
a. I have leaned never to look for love, it finds you when you are ready!

11. How do you expect someone to show love to you?
a. Physical affection: Concern for my well being/welfare:
the ability to listen, empathy, and knows when to shutup.

12. What are you thoughts about sex?
a. I love sex: I think it is natural-healthy-good for the mind and body's development. And must be indulged in with reverence, respect, and responsibly.

13. How do you handle feelings of stress, jealousy, and frustration?
a. I hadly ever experience stress. I practice mind meditation.

14. Why are you relationship material?
a. Humans are material beings, therefore, the material will always be a major factor in every human's life.

15. How do you handle disputes, with your fist or do you talk them
out?
a. I never allowmyself to get into an argument. I cannot recall the last time that occurred with me!

16. What do you bring to the table for a potential mate?
a. This sounds like a 'dowry request.' However, I bring myself, my intelligence, my heart, my good nature, my soul, and my integrity!

17. What do you expect a potential mate to bring to the table?
a. All that I have mentioned above!

18. How open are you with your sexuality and lifestyle in your
professional/personal life?
a. I am quite open with my sexual preference, and sexual indentity.

19. How selfish are you?
a. All humans are selfish, in varying degrees. So I cannot say to what degree I am.

20. What principles do you try to live by on a day to day basis?
a. Truth; Love: Integrity: Self-respect: High expectation for myself: & Spiritual enlightment.

21. Are you a family oriented person? why?
a I have no family: As for relatives. I don't need them:

Derryck S. Grifith.
Manhattan. New York City.
revised 1-13-06

The New York City-MTA Transit Worker's Union Discussions:

January 14-2006:


The New York City-MTA & Transit Workers Union Discussions:

I don't know what is the final deal between The New York City-MTA & The Transit Union on the contract agreement. But I will say this!
It is not easy to sit at a bargaining table with a big corporation, which is also influenced and helped by the State, in a collective bargaining process. After all, some of the board's appointees of that corporation, are appointed by the state.

In that situation, outside politics and political posturing will always play a role in determining which way that corporation will bend, in the final decisions it makes in these discussions. The New York MTA is one of those corporations that the workers' union have to deal with.
No worker's contract is ever totally satisfactory to all of the workers concerned. But it must be understood, that if you have representatives whom you elect to deal with your collective issues at the corporate level. Then some amount of confidence and resolve should be given for their efforts on your behalf.

I urge you to sign the current contract. The collective action made by all the workers recently, was a noble and bold statement. It is not often the 'rights of the workers vs the power of the state,' gets national support or approval in our culture.

If this matter goes to Arbitration, chances are that whatever decision/s is made by the Arbitrator, would be legally binding to all parties involved.
And that too, may not necessarily be satisfactory to everyone!

Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
former
Branch Secretary & Shop Steward.
A.T.&.G.W.U.

Is There A Purpose For Human Life On This Planet?

January 10-2006:


"We are all strands in a cosmic web. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves."
Chief Seattle.
of The Indigenous Peoples.

I have often wondered what is the purpose of humankind? If there is such a purpose!
And if there is also a purpose for the lower animals that share this planet with us?
I have said before in several articles that I have written on similar issues, that I do not believe, nor subscribe to the Christian concept of Genesis. And because science have not yet figured scientifically, how this universe came into existence, if it ever did have a beginning. I am left with nothing to use as a frame of reference.
But I refuse to speculate, without hard or substantial evidence to the affirmative. Nor will I allow myself to be sucked in the hype of speculations like 'The Black Hole' theory, & 'The Big Bang' theory
Then I am left with these questions:
*Is it really necessary for us humans to have a purpose?
*And to whom do we owe this purpose or allegiance?
The lower animals seem to live from day to day, without pondering these matters. They mate when that instinct kicks in. They protect themselves from other life threatening and aggressive animals. They do not plant or build anything for themselves. Nor do they seem to care about their offspring's future either.
They eat when they are hungry. Except for the pig, who eats 24 hours non-stop. And the lion after 20 hours of sleep. The tiger fascinates me though. He kills because he likes it, regardless of whether he is hungry of not.
In fact, he could be classified as a 'serial killer
The birds of the sky travels from region to region in search of food or safety, and in keeping with seasonal changes. Because (it seems), their survival depends upon that realization.
Only humans seem to feel that there must be a purpose to this, this thing we call 'life' on this planet. They even extend it to the point beyond physical life. That aspect they call 'the afterlife', Heaven, and Hell.
And humans also have the temerity to speculate how we all will get there. What is obtained there. Who qualifies to go there. And the longevity or damnation of the souls that go there!
How fascinating and preposterous a concept, and yet believed by millions of humans!
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator & Advocate.
Yahoo IM: derryckgrifith
and derryck_mimbari
AOL IM: Ecmimbari

Do you really believe the expression "nigga' could be eradicated?

Hello!I have read your concern for the random usage of the word 'Nigga" by fellow Blacks. Even though this expression is also used in Africa, The Caribbean, South & Central America, and I also believe it is used in some parts of Europe.
But in all of these cultures it means very different things.
Here in the USA, this word is, and was associated with slavery, Jim Crowism, segregation, racism, etc. With the advent of the Civil Right's Movement, a new political correctness was asked to apply to this word. And by so doing, it is now seen as officially derogatory.
But will it ever be eradicated? I think not!
A word, like any other expression, has a cultural history, and an identity to it, (positive or negative). I also hear Blacks referring to Southern Country Whites as CRACKERS too! But the Whites don't publicly object to this term. I also hear Whites calling each other 'ma Nigga too. And this to them is HIP, and cool with them too.
Personally, I think the more we see this expression as a negative, the more it will play on our mentality. And the more resentment it will foster within ourselves, and the history behind it. In order for all Black Americans to move beyond this stigma. or derogative, is to accept it as part of our heritage.
Allow it's use, especially now that it has become fashionable to use. Because if we don't, then the negative aspect/connotation will always make those who are so annoyed by it's use, the victims!
Om Shanti.
Derryck.
Yahoo IM: derryckgrifith
and derryck_mimbari
AOL IM: Ecmimbari

Do You Know The History Behind The Word PICNIC?

Do you know the history of PICNIC?


Only recently I was made aware of the history of the word 'picnic. I was told that expression came from the Southern American Whites, during and after slavery, when wanted to 'lynch' a Black, they would say, 'Lets us go "pic a Nigga," and sling um up!
All of my younger years growing up in Guyana, we have been using that term innocently, because we never knew what it really meant. To us back there, it meant having some food prepared, put it in a basket, and along with family and friends, go to the park or some public square, and have a good time.
A Picnic to us meant, and still mean having an outdoor party or cookout. Now that I know what it means, I decided mentally never to refer to any outdoor revelry, or cookout as a picnic ever again.
Not that it bothers me, but for the memory of the history and barbarism, that this activity condoned!
Om Shanti.
Derryck.
Yahoo IM: derryckgrifith
and derryck_mimbari
AOL IM: Ecmimbari

A Teacher's Role Is To Teach-Not Parent Her Students:

December 28-2005:

A Teacher's Role Is Not To Be A Parent:


I grew up in (GUYANA), and under our educational system, teachers are supposed to teach children, not parent them.
If some child or children becomes a distraction in the class, misbehaves, or cause disruption in class, then he or she is asked to leave that session immediately, and report to the said class teacher after the session ends.
If he or she fails to report to the teacher, he/she is referred to the Head master/Head teacher for reprimand.
If the Head Teacher or Head Master is unable to determine whether that child is in-capable of self-discipline, then the child's parent/s are called in for a discussion about this problem.
In Guyana, no child can disrupt a class, and still sit there when he or she is asked to leave the room. That is not condoned PERIOD.
So all miscreants or in-disciplined children are expected to comply with the rules, or will not be allowed to attend that school any longer.
Finally, in Guyana, we believe that if the parent/s cannot discipline their children, they cannot expect teacher's to do so for them. Because teachers are there to TEACH, not to play mother or fathers to the children under their charge.
That is not their role!
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Manhattan.
New York City.

Prepare Or Fail Miserably:

December 24-2005:

Prepare Or Fail Miserably:

In today's economic environment, without a decent education, and it's concomitant skills, you are doomed to live a life in economic poverty. Without the possibility for providing your offspring any financial foundation that will enable them to attend college, or equip themselves, for upward mobility.
No Free Rides:

Those of us who feel that to get a free pass into college, and possibly graduate, because you are a preferred athlete, you are terribly mis-guided. Not too many athletes will get picked to play in the major leagues.
Not too many favorite athletes who were selected, despite their poor academic performance in college, will be able to comprehend and monitor their financial affairs. Most will get fleeced from their accountants, lawyers, and managers, because of their ignorance and lack of knowledge.
And material wealth cannot compensate for a lack of education. Because should some misfortune befall you, there is nothing left to fall back on! Ignoramuses can never be role models for young and aspiring men and girls. If you have cheated in school, promoted because of some athlete gift you may have, and have never applied yourself diligently at accomplishing any intellectual or academic skills, then what kind of role model will you be?
Commonsense-Education & Entrepreneurship:

Without common sense, a good education, the ability to take advantage of opportunities, that will assist in upward mobility, then you might as well throw in the towel.
Because you will never be able to compete in the world of work, and poverty will always be your lot, and your children's lot. And the in-ability to rise above that social situation, because you have not given them the opportunity to do so.
Affirmative Action/Privileges:

This entitlement have done more harm than good to those who feel they are entitled to it, regardless of it's noble intentions. This privilege has caused some of us to just settle for the mediocre, or sub-standard, because we feel we will be promoted anyway, because of these special privileges.
It is unreal to expect someone to perform to his/her maximum, if their is an incentive provided for failure. And to give someone an incentive or edge, because he/she is poor, or presumed to be dis-advantaged, will be a dis-incentive to him/her to achieve excellence.
It is like giving a runner a 'jump start' ahead of his fellow runners in the race, because he has asthma!
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator & Advocate.

Was The New York City-MTA Transit Worker's Strike Worth It?

December 22-2005:

Was The MTA Worker's Union Strike Credible:

The position with the New York City MTA Union dispute has reached an impasse. The MTA is offering 3% for three years. This simply means that the workers will get 3% increase on their wages every year, for the next three years. There will be no increase in Pension contributions by the workers. All new /recruited/employees will have to contribute 2% towards their retirement pension. And the retirement age will be pushed forward for all new employees from 55 to 65 years.
That is the final offer from the MTA, according to it's Chairman. But the Union representatives are saying that is not satisfactory for them. They feel that the MTA is not being fair in it's offer, considering the high cost of living, the satisfactory performance of the workers for the past three years, and the surplus of one million dollars which the MTA made this year-2005, and could afford to provide reasonable increases to the workers.
The MTA decided to seek Conciliation for this dispute because they felt discussions were at impasse. The Union agreed to this measure, and efforts are underway for this recourse for conciliation. However, the strike was called off today (December 22-2005), without a 'Contract Of Employment But talks are continuing towards that end.
Meanwhile, the Courts have postponed or put on hold, all charges against workers until January-20-2006, presumably, to see what results will eventually emerge from these talks.

The Taylor Law:
This law was enacted to prevent any strikes within the essential services, like The MTA. This law was enacted some years ago, to protect the interests of The City, & The Mercantile Community, at the expense and helplessness of the common worker/s, regardless of the issues involved.
The Corporate Bosses, The Governor Of New York State, & The Mayor of New York City, claims victory for the end of this strike today (December 22-2005), and relishes the view, that all New Yorkers will be happy for this victory, and the ability for all workers to be able to travel as usual.

The Negatives Of This Strike Action:

* This strike have caused losses to both the workers, and the business community at large.
* The business community will always resent any strike from the workers, because it infringes upon their profits/income.
* The Mayor & The Governor are Public Servants, who will always side with the Business Community, because that is where their financial support comes from, at election time.
* The constituents will always get shafted in disputes like this, because they are not in a position to do anything about it.
* The striking workers & the business community have lost money/income from this strike action.
* Whenever there is no 'Contract of Employment' the employer has the option to arbitrarily dismiss/fire any or all workers deemed unfit or un-necessary in that enterprise.

The Positives Of This Strike Action:

* The willingness for the union's representatives & it's workers to go on strike, for issues that were long overdue or not reconciled, at this time of the year.
* The working classes only recourse for injustice, unfair labor practices, lack of a contract of employment, and ill-treatment, from it's employers, is to show collective action like this one.
* Unity & Solidarity among the workers is absolutely necessary, for victory to be achieved. With support from sister unions, the public, and the media at large.
* Victory can only be measured by "What The Union's Proposals Were, and "What They Have Finally Accepted."

CONCLUSION:
Let us all wait and see what the Court will decide to do with penalties. And if the final results of this dispute will produce 'A Contract Of Employment' for these workers!
Om Shanti.
Educator & Advocate.
Manhattan.
New York City.
PS: There Can Be No Victory Without A Struggle!

Intelligent Design-Another Concept For The Advent Of Humans On This Planet:

Intelligent Design:

This is another concept that the Far Right Evangelists are trying to introduce in our schools. It is another form of Genesis. Another theory of Human's entrance on this planet!
Is it right to introduce this theory, or disguised religion into our schools?
I think not!

Science is based on a certain Formula: S=M=Q:
1. S-means it must be seen:
2.M-means that is must be measured:
3.Q- means that it must be quantifiable:

Is this A Science?
Frankly NO:
If we allow such arbitrary or subtle injections into our school's curriculum, then we would be allowing the advent of Conservative Religious Concepts and Agenda, to seep into the impressionable and vulnerable minds of our young children.
Om Shanti.
Derryck.
Manhattan.
New York City.

New York City-MTA Union Says No Deal:

The Only Thing The Working Classes Have To Lose Are Their Chains!

The situation with the New York City Transit Workers demands are of concern to many New Yorkers, especially those who use the subway and buses to and from work each day. But the issues are beyond just getting to work, or getting there on time.
* The issues involve getting a fair day's wage, for a fair day's work. And
the Union wants an 8% increase for the next three years:
* Job security, better working conditions, respect from management in it's day to day relations with workers. And an Affordable Insurance Plan.
* The MTA offered a 3% every year, for the next three years:
* And an increase of the reirement age from 55 to 62 years:
* All new hirees would have to pay 1% of their income towards the Pension Fund.
The Union does not acept these proposals!
Supporting these workers in their plight for a decent wage, with benefits, have always been what all working people strive for historically. And because of this collective need, the forming of Trade Unions/Collective Bargaining Agents was created to assist in this regard.
In this United States Of America, worker's organizations have dwindled in numbers, resources, and the attraction of potential workers, and employers alike. The cultural belief that a person or individual can bargain with his Boss or Employer for a better deal, has been the biggest fallacy ever promoted, by those who resist collective bargaining methods.
However, it seems like the table is turning into the workers favor, and more people are seeing the wisdom of collective bargaining via A Representative Worker's Union. We welcome this development, and hope that the trend will continue to grow in volume.
*Let us support the Workers Cause!
*Let us unite in spirit with all those who seek to improve the conditions under which they operate as workers.
* Let us support whatever is decided by the workers representatives of The New York Transit Authority Union.
And most of all, let us show support for Worker's Rights!
Workers International Unite!
Sincerely,
Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator & Advocate.
& Former Shop Steward.
A.T.G.W.U.

What Is GOOD & What Is EVIL?

December 03-2005:
What Is Evil & What Is Good?
Definitions:
EVIL: Morally objectionable behavior:
GOOD: Moral excellence or admirableness:
Foreword:
For centuries humankind have been battling with the concepts of Good & Evil. Religions have sprung-up, purporting to explain, the origin and realities of the two elements that affects all humankind. Even in this century, humans are still explaining culturally, what is Evil or Good, and what culture or religious theory takes precedence in explaining truthfully, what these elements are, and how they can be controlled.

* The Beginning Of Human Time:
I do not subscribe to the Christian concept of the human Genesis. Nor do I subscribe to Darwin's theory of human evolution. Personally, I see the scientific theories as being more feasible for the following reasons:
* Science is based on a certain Formula: S=M=Q:
1. S-means it must be seen:
2.M-means that is must be measured:
3.Q- means that it must be quantifiable:
Reasons:
A: Religion therefore does not qualify, because it is based on faith:
B: The Darwin theory is unable to connect the presumed Monkey/Ape genes, with human genetics-anatomy-physiognomy, and intelligence.

* The Scientific Theories:
I am not a scientist in any way, shape or form, but I have read scientific theories that tries to explain this universe, using science to explain how it may have evolved.
a.The Black Hole theory is one of them:
b. The Big Bang theory is another:
c. And there is a more recent school of thought that presumes, humans came from some other planet in this universe, as a survival necessity, resulting from some war of extinction on some other planet or solar system.
d. And this other planet, have not been discovered by us humans as yet.

* My View Of Human Evolution:
I believe that the universe as we know it "WAS, IS, & WILL ALWAYS BE A REALITY."
It was never created: Because if it was, then one would have to validate it's creator: And the question goes on perpetually for the validation of that creator's creator, and so on, and so on, to infinity!
I also believe that the universe/cosmic, consists of invisible & visible forces. Call them protons-electrons-molecules, etc. These forces/energy have always been in the invisible or infinite, and with time evolved into matter, of different forms and substance, with time.
I also believe that all invisible energy has no light (as we know or understand it to be). Light to us means, Sun Rays: Electricity: Illumination: Sparks: Meteors: etc. These are all part of the metamorphoses of invisible energy evolving overtime into visible energy. Resulting in Planets-Stars-Suns-Moons, etc.
* When Did This Process Begin?
No one knows when this physical universe/cosmic became visible, because I presume no human form as we understand it were present at that time. And if they were, no records/evidence was ever found to validate this presumption. Suffice it to say that humans came into existence on this planet, at different intervals, and in different regions on this planet, without knowing of each other's separate existence for centuries.
* Intelligence:
The human animal/organism over the centuries have come to the realization of itself, it's existence, and intelligence, gradually, by trial, error, accident, natural phenomena, and survival adaptability. Every generation since the genesis of humans on this planet had to observe, learn, memorize, fight, and manage to stay alive, and to procreate.
With each experience, phenomena, or natural disaster, humans managed to prevail, despite the severe losses they suffered in numbers. They learned how to defend themselves from attacking animals: They learned how to hunt and eventually grow their food: They learned how nature operates to some extent: They also learned how to protect themselves from nature's harmful elements.
Most of the time humans generally, ascribed superstitious beliefs to those things they did not understand, of could not comprehend or explain. Humans created Gods, (visible ones mostly), to appease when they felt the need to. In human and animal sacrifices at different times, and did in almost every region on this planet.
* The Genesis Of Good & Evil:
a. No one knows how the concepts of Good & Evil came about. But Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and all other religions, have their concepts of these elements.
b. How it shapes our beliefs, morality, and even behavior, in every culture known to humankind.
Evil & Good according to the definition at the beginning of this dossier, explains the differences from culture to culture. And because of this difference of perception and acts. Laws, Regulations, attitudes, religious beliefs, and morals, have all been shaped, to facilitate these cultural and religious beliefs, in every culture known to humankind.
* Heaven & Earth:
a. Christianity & Islam, and I guess other religions have preached about some place where Evil lives/dwells. And the same for heaven, as a place where Good resides. Their followers are cautioned not to disobey/obey the prescribed Religious doctrines, Fatwahs, Laws, or Catechism, that is used to keep the flock in moral obedience or compliance with these doctrines.
b. Failing to obey them, will result in a destiny after physical death, to a hellish place for eternity. Those that do good, observe the laws or doctrines for goodness, will end up in Heaven, after physical death.
c. There is another place that you go to as a temporary place for cleansing of sins, purported by The Roman Catholics. And that place is Purgatory. According to them, this place is for sinners, who die in Sin, but will be redeemed after Jesus is resurrected some time again in the future.
NOTE: They call this time "The End Time.'
b. And Revelations, in The Christian Bible makes reference to this theory!
* Where Is This Hell & Heaven Located?
This planet Earth (is spherical), and it revolves around the Sun for it's sustenance. It also floats (like all planets do), in an OPEN & Perpetual VOID called Our Solar System or Universe.
a. Thefore, where is the ABOVE or BELOW Position?
b. Where is this Hell or Heaven located?
c. And where is this Purgatory located?
Could anyone explain these paradoxes for me please!
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator & Advocate.
PS:
I was Christened in childhood (A Roman Catholic):
I denounced this faith/religion in my adolescence:
I currently consider myself "A Free Thinker."

Education-The Curriculum & Excellence:

November 12-2005:
What should our public schools and college's curriculum reflect, for educating our children?
Education:
1.The activities of educating or instructing or teaching.
2. Activities that impart knowledge or skill.
3. Knowledge acquired by learning and instruction.
Skills:
1. An ability that has been acquired by training.
2. Ability to produce solutions in some problem.
In light of the definitions outlined above, I contend that preparing our children for the world of work, career, or vocation, starts with a solid foundation in all of the above pre-requisites.
The ability or in-ability of our public schools and colleges to adequately prepare students to fit in, or compete on a global level, with the knowledge and skills to make them employable, productive, efficient, and marketable, will be the determining factor in our economic wealth and health as a nation globally.
Health Concerns & Career Goal Orientation:
From the grade school levels, all students should be taught the basics for preventative diseases, nutrition, essential exercises for physical health, forward planning, budgeting, and thrift. This will equip them with the tools for adult responsibilities, parenting, civic responsibilities, and national pride.
Adequate Schools/Colleges:
* Our schools/colleges must be equipped with tutors qualified in their respective disciplines.
* Ongoing training of faculty must be a priority, coupled with research, and fair emoluments, befitting the tasks.
* Scholarships and Grants must also be made available to students and pre-students. Especially those from poor communities where tuition may be desperately lacking for potential scholars.
Morality & Self-respect:
Political Philosophy, Human Psychology, and Morality, are all disciplines that will help to broaden the intellect, aid reasoned thinking, and help in the inculcation of personal values/morals.
These are just some of the developmental goals that our schools should be re-focusing on, if we are truly bent on academic improvements, and excellence from our children.
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator & Advocate.

Happy 25Th Anniversary Bet.Com:

Special Tribute To BET.Com, for the remarkable foresight, wisdom, continuity, and vision.
This media has given African Americans a place to air their talents, their dreams, their wishes & frustrations.
All in the name of love!
Happy Twenty-fifth Anniversary to you All!
Om Shanti.

The Problem With HOODIES In The UK:

The HOODIES or Hooded-Youth Attire:
The phenomena that seem to be creating a stir in the UK, is the wearing of the 'Hood' or head cover, on the heads of youths or adolescents. It is associated with gangsterism, Inner City robberies, and working class hoodlums from both Black & White backgrounds.
This phenomena is creating resentment within those so-called upright communities or individuals, who feel that certain social norms for personal attire must be adhered to, less it creates mis-conceptions within the society.
Or is associated with elements that are anti-establishment, anarchic, or deviant. And this ascription is leveled against the Black & White working class and Inner City youths, who seem to fancy this type of head wear. More or less associated with crime, burglary, and miscreants.
The local media in The UK, by and large is guilty of portraying this local phenomena as indicative of Black & White inner city youth behavior, their lack of moral, social, civil dis-regard for decent conduct and behavior.
This is also indicative of Blacks in the Big Cities of The USA, who wear the baggy trousers, with it's waistline hanging from the lower hips or under the buttock, as their way of saying that we are the Hip-Hop generation, and we chose to identify ourselves in this way generally. And we don't care if you grownups don't like it!
Some adults have complained that this type of attire is indicative of prisoners in the Southern States of America, in the historic chain gang, or those who are sexually molested in prison, or "prison queens."
Whether there truth in these statements or not, the youths who wear them, seem not to care the least about those associations.
Therefore, it is my belief and experience as a former youth, that every generation identifies itself in certain ways that may or may not be appreciated by their adult counterparts.
However, in every culture there are certain elements that are known to be hooligans, or misfits. But that does not give us the right as adults to castigate the entire aggregate as hooligans, misfits, or social degenerates.
By so doing, we would be distancing these youths from us adults, and in fact making the statement that they (the youths), are not appreciated for what they are. And that my friends would be very ill-advised and wrong!
Om Shanti.
Derryck.
Yahoo IM: mimbari2003

HIV-Nutrition & Maintaining Good Health:

October 19-2005:
TO: Michael Baisden.
http://thebadboyfanclub.com/forum/
From: Derryck S. Griffith
E-mail: mimbari2003@yahoo.com
SUBJECT: HIV-STD's & other diseases:
Everything Is Everything!
Hello Michael,
I was listening to your interview/discussion today on the above subject, and I would like to highlight a few things in that regard.
* HIV & AIDS is an immune destructive disease. A cure for HIV has not yet been found.
* HIV like most STD's compromises the immune system.
* The current HIV suppressant medications available cannot cure HIV. What it does, if taken correctly, and according to your physician's directions, can reduce the volume of HIV within the blood stream, thus making it more easy to repair the immune system, and produce more, or increase the lost T4 Cells that boosts your immune system.
* There are several medically and nutritionally recommended things one can do to boost their immune system, and increase their overall health. eg
1. Doctor prescribed 'Multivitamin with Mineral' tablets. (One or two tabs) to be taken daily as needed.
2. Doctor recommended physical exercizes, such as 'strength training' of the arms & legs, squats, abdominals, weight-lifting or resistance training, to build arms and chest.
b. Jogging, fast walking, and any exercise that will help blood circulation and decrease high cholesterol.
3. Herbal medicines are also helpful, but Western Clinical Medicine was taught to most doctors today, and very few are inclined to discuss the herbal alternative. But with a little personal research and persuasion, some doctors are inclined to try some form of holistic medication, under their supervision.
4. Most Black & Latinos do not have medical insurance. Medicaid and ADAPT are accessed to some who qualify, based on a certain annual minimum income. Thus making it a little easier to obtain HIV medications. But proper nutritional practices are a problem in most poor communities.
5. Very few poor families or individuals, without a regular income can afford to adhere to a proper diet. And most HIV cases who are accessing Medicaid, food stamps, and some Social Disability benefit, are not allowed to work gainfully, or earn an income, that is beyond the income they are receiving from Public Assistance, or Welfare assistance.
6. And co-payments are also a factor for people on Medicaid, when accessing their medications from a pharmacy. Some pharmacies insist that you pay the co-pay! Even though The State authorities says that you should not do so, if you cannot afford to.
Not many poor and intimidated HIV Black & Latino (non-English speaking clients), knows this, or will insist upon this right!
6. Therefore, to maintain good health, adhere to the regimen for HIV medications, eat right or nutritionally, can be a very difficult task for many HIV patients. Most of which have other problems, such as Mental Illness, Drug and Substance usage problems, Injection Drug Usage problems, Psychological and Sociological challenges, and a history of homelessness.
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith
Educator & Advocate.
Manhattan.
New York City.

There Is Nothing New Under The Sun!

Do You Know That There Is Nothing New Under The Sun!
For example:
* Every philosophy was interpreted according to the writer's view of the world.
*And when re-written, was embellished to make it more readable, believable, acceptable, and appealing to the viewer.
* Every religion known to humankind was practiced eons ago, but because writing only came into print in the middle ages, people had to follow what was told verbally to them.
* Whether they believed what was verbally told to them is another matter. Whether what was written was truth, is still debated even today!
* And yet, people still postulate that the scriptures are the TRUTH, given by some God, to his chosen followers, for all mankind to accept and follow.
* And do you know that after millions of years have elapsed, Jesus's (supposed teachings) are still debated, still un-clear, still causes division even among the followers/believers of this so-called doctrine, (known as Christianity), or believers in Christ.
* Human history shows clearly how for centuries humans looked to the skies for some revelation or answer to their enquiries about purpose, famine, death, life, after-life, good, and evil.
* Modern science and technology today, has helped greatly explain certain natural phenomena, eg, volcanoes, earthquakes, tornados, floods, hurricanes, and hale storms, that hitherto was perceived as works of the Devil in anger, or of some God as punishment.
* Today humans still ascribe those phenomena as punishment, or the wrath of some God or Allah.
* Re-incarnation was believed possible in the flesh by Egyptians, centuries ago. The mummies of the Pharaohs or royalty, validates that belief today.
* Cryonics (or the freezing of the dead), is practiced today for those who still feel that they will resurrect some time in the future. So the rich believers, (or those who can afford to do so), preserve a part of, or their entire carcass, for that future resurrection.
So history is still repeating itself today, even though humanity has made remarkable strides in technology and science. We are generally still victims of primitive beliefs, superstitious methods, practices, and fatalists!
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.

Coming Of Age-The Rights Of Passage:

Rights Of Passage-Or Coming Of Age:
In some cultures young boys at the age of 16 or even 13 years of age, are inducted into the social fabric of society, via certain ceremonial practices.
In Jewish culture, young practicing Jews of Judaism are expected to perform this traditional ceremony on their male offspring, when he attains the age of 13 years. This ceremony is called 'BAR MITVAH.' This ceremony is performed to symbolically induce the young male, for the responsibility that comes with manhood.
These 'social mores' have been evident in many cultures for centuries. But today, it is mostly done in societies that adhere to stringent traditional religious, and social values. Unlike Western Christian oriented societies, where such practices are not too stringent or enforced.
Has there been a 'right of passage' for young African boys? I would imagine so, but those of us who are descendents of former slaves, living in Western European cultures, may have lost that traditional African heritage or practice. And de-facto, does not indulge in any expected ceremony that will help our young men/boys to realize how important it is to understand their role in the family, the society, and the politics that influences the way we think, feel, and act as adults.
Because of this long lost traditional teaching, most young African male descendents, find it somewhat difficult to introduce values that is peculiarly our own. That will benefit and enlighten our own kind, in their quest at attaining manhood, and manhood responsibilities. What we have as guidance, are imposed rules, handed down to us in the societies in which we find ourselves captive, or circumstantial.
Albeit, the young Black male has to determine his role in a society that has conflicting roles and expectations for it's menfolk. This causes psychological conflict within him, that forever influences how he perceives himself, and his role or roles in the society in which he operates. His relationship to other men, and to women are also affected by this lack of solid moral and social values, hitherto lost, or discontinued, as a result of slavery.
Om Shanti.
Derryck.
Political Educator & Advocate.

What If A Dirty Bom Had Exploded In This Country?

What If a Dirty Bomb Had Exploded In This Country?

Hurricane Katrina has taught us (I hope), that America is still not yet ready to deal with a very large or horrendous disaster.
If it took one week or six days for the National Guard, to move vehicles through flooded streets, to rescue stranded citizens that had remained, or was caught there after the hurricane.
How will they respond to a terrorist attack upon any city with a Dirty Bomb, or even the sabotage of one of those LEVIES, that protects New Orleans from the Mississippi river?
It seems like the Homeland Security agencies, The State & Local authorities all failed to make the necessary preparations, that would have allowed them to respond with the imagination and expediency, that was necessary in such situations.
Furthermore, it took the President Of The United States, three days to personally visit the disaster regions. Imagine that! He is alleged to have said that he cut short his vacation by two days, in order to attend to this crisis. Now this comment bothers me, because what we have here is someone who was elected by the people, to attend to all of the people's needs in times like this. But President George W. Bush gives me the impression, that he was just OBLIGING Americans, by responding so soon!
I hope that all Americans will never forget this moment, or this disaster, and the people who were most affected by this disaster, and how their elected officials responded to them, in their time of dire need!
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.
Political Educator & Advocate.

What Are UFO's?

What are UFO's-And how are they perceived by humans?

Definition of UFO:
An un-identified flying object.
Therefore, with this definition in mind, any un-identified flying object can be perceived as a 'UFO.' And has nothing to do with some perceived being from another planet, whose intentions are perceived to be bent on doing harm to us humans. As a matter of fact, it is only the American mentality that holds the view that ALIENS are bent on doing harm to humans!
* Firstly, why would an alien/aliens want to do harm to humans?
* Why do Americans/Hollywood producers feel that UFO's would be a threat to humankind, and that we must prepare for the worst case scenario, should they set foot on this planet?
* And what kind of weaponry would be the choice of defense of this planet?
* And what nation on this planet would be attacked first?
* And finally, how would this defense take place, if all nations do not have the knowledge of, and type of so-called enemy we would be confronting. It's ability to do us (humans harm), the type of warfare that we will be confronted with, or the place such battles will begin to unfold!
Given this lack of comprehension, the magnitude of this so-called threat, the type and nature of this so-called enemy, and the motive for such attack. I totally disagree with all those 'dooms-day' individuals who seem so obsessed and paranoid, that humans will ever be attacked by aliens from another planet.
Furthermore, we humans can barely afford to make a flight to Mars currently, we lack the where-withal to survive any planet outside our own, without the supply of oxygen, protection from extreme cold & heat, (solar winds, gamma rays from the sun), and all the other gases that planets beyond our solar system have, that would impair human survival.
And because of this lack of technology by humans, the inability to survive the way we are aclimatized here on earth, the language barrier (supposedly) that such creatures might offer, the type or nature of such creatures (if any) would pose, and the inability to communicate with such creatures or beings, (if they do exist).
I say that such a scenario is too pre-posterous to even contemplate seriously, much less envision!
Om Shanti.
Derryck S. Griffith.

Hats Off to Opra Winfry!

HATS OFF TO OPRAH!!!

I'm sure many of you watched the recent taping of "The Oprah Winfrey Show", where her guest was Tommy Hilfiger...

On the show, she asked him if the statements about racism he was accused of saying were true...Statements like "... if I'd known African-Americans, Hispanics, Jews and Asians would buy my clothes, I would not have made them so nice......

.I wish these people would *NOT* buy my clothes as they are made for upper class white people." His answer to Oprah was a simple "YES."

When Hilfiger answered in such manner, she immediately asked him to leave! her show. A suggestion: Don't buy your next shirt or Perfume from Tommy Hilfiger.

Let's give him what he asked for: Let's not buy his clothes. Let's put him in a state where he himself will not be able to afford the ridiculous prices he puts on his clothes. BOYCOTT HILFIGER!!! PLEASE SEND THIS MESSAGE TO EVERY ONE YOU KNOW.

"Thou Shalt Not Covet Thy Neighbor's Property."

August 18-2005:
Foreword:
"Thou Shalt Not Covet thy Neighbor's property"
It was only a matter of time before the Israeli government came to their senses, and do what is best for both peoples. Let my people go, said Moses to Ramses -the Pharoah, centuries ago, when the Jews were enslaved by Egypt.
Today, the Palestinians are in captivity by the Jews in more ways than one. Israel giving up COVETED lands that they squatted on, and claimed to be their own, must now be surrendered to it's righful owners, the Palestinians.
Quote:And Then I saw A New Heaven & A New Earth. For The Old Heaven & Earth Had Passed Away, And The Sea Was No More!
Derryck.
Israeli Riot Police Storm Gaza Synagogue: By RAMIT PLUSHNICK-MASTI, Associated Press Writer 44 minutes ago Israeli riot police with helmets and shields broke open the door of a synagogue in this hard-line settlement and fired water cannons at barricaded protesters, who responded by hurling debris and what police said was acid at the troops. In the most violent confrontation since the forced removals began this week, several Israeli police and soldiers, in obvious discomfort, stripped off their clothes after being doused.
Their comrades poured water over their heads and torsos to wash them off. As forces cut through the barbed wire to reach the synagogue's roof, protesters threw sand and blue-green liquid and sprayed them with foam. Some used sticks to try to push away the ladders used by security forces to reach the roof. Others reached the roof via shipping containers hoisted by a crane. A sign hanging from the roof said, "We won't forget. We won't forgive." Two officers slipped off a ladder to a ledge just below the roof because of oil thrown from above. Many policemen were covered in what appeared to be white paint. One, covered in a blanket, was carried away on a stretcher.
Eventually, protesters were pushed into the container, which had wire-mesh doors, and then carried into waiting buses. The images were reminiscent of the removal of protesters from the Israeli settlement of Yamit in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula in 1982. Israel TV ran side-by-side shots of the evacuations of Kfar Darom and Yamit.President Bush was "getting frequent and regular updates from his staff on the developments" while vacationing at his Texas ranch, White House spokeswoman Dana Perino said Thursday."The president continues to support Prime Minister Sharon and what he has called a very bold initiative," she said. "It's very courageous. We understand the deep sentiments that are felt and the difficulty one feels when leaving ... their home." Thursday's confrontation was one of two at Gaza synagogues used as the last bastion by settlers opposed to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon's withdrawal from Gaza, which Israel has occupied for 38 years. No deaths have been reported in the Gaza Strip pullout, but a Jewish settler, apparently despondent over the withdrawal, opened fire Wednesday at Palestinian workers in the West Bank, killing four.
Also, Palestinians opened fire on Israeli troops on the road linking Israel to Gaza's Jewish settlements, and a soldier was slightly wounded, the army said. At a synagogue in Neve Dekalim, the largest Israeli settlement in Gaza, the crowd chanted "Jews don't expel Jews!" as police charged into the prayer hall. Protesters booed, whistled and threw water on troops. In the front rows, young men lay on the ground, linking arms, while those behind them tried to push away soldiers trying to get hold of arms and legs. Some of the protesters had their arms wrapped in leather tefilin prayer boxes and rocked fervently as they recited prayers. Rabbis in the crowd wore orange vests identifying them as clergy. Protesters chanted "Blasphemy! Blasphemy!" as soldiers dragged some of the young men away by their feet, then carried them feet first down a ramp onto a bus.
One man was taken away on a stretcher, with an intravenous drip. Another was draped in an Israeli flag. The people inside the synagogues - mostly extremist youths from the West Bank and Israel - have provided some of the fiercest resistance to the pullout. It was no coincidence that they chose synagogues to make their last stand. Many of the settlers and their supporters are devout Jews who believe the West Bank and Gaza were promised to the Jews by God. They say their eviction is sacrilege. Elsewhere, security forces dragged screaming residents out of homes, and settlers burned houses, fields and tires in protest. Security officials said they expected to clear out all 21 Gaza settlements by Tuesday, more than two weeks ahead of schedule. By nightfall, police expected 18 settlements to be empty.
Neve Dekalim was largely cleared out Wednesday. But 1,500 protesters took refuge in the synagogue and refused to leave. Soldiers burst into the building Thursday afternoon after hours of negotiations with settler leaders broke down. As the troops approached the synagogue, a bearded settler wearing a skullcap spat on an Israeli flag and ripped it into pieces. The man wore an orange Star of David on his shirt - reminiscent of the star the Nazis made Jews wear during World War II. Some soldiers involved in the operation burst into tears. In the farming settlement of Netzer Hazani, protesters set fires that sent a huge plume of black smoke into the air. Youths in Shirat Hayam, a hard-line beachfront outpost, burned tires and garbage. In nearby Kfar Yam, a settler armed with an M-16 rifle threatened to shoot troops if they attempt to evacuate him.
He later surrendered. The army declared a curfew in Al-Mawasi, a Palestinian town adjacent to Shirat Hayam and Kfar Yam, to protect settlers and soldiers during the pullout. On Wednesday, a Jewish extremist in the West Bank killed four Palestinians in an apparent attempt to disrupt the Gaza pullout. Sharon called the shootings an act of "Jewish terror." In Kfar Darom, soldiers formed cordons around Lt. Gen. Dan Halutz, who oversaw the operation, to shield him from shouting settlers. Thousands of soldiers entered the settlement at dawn and quickly encircled the synagogue and two nearby buildings. After failed attempts to negotiate a peaceful surrender, troops began moving into homes. "Why did you become a soldier, to be in this crazy situation?" screamed a young mother, cradling a baby, as soldiers entered her home. In another house, a husband and wife lay on the floor, shrieking and clutching their small children. A soldier participating in the evacuation of a religious school suddenly disobeyed orders and was quickly carried away by troops.
Troops also burst into a nursery school crowded with protesters. People sang and danced as the troops entered, and about two dozen young children played with toys. Troops quickly cleared out the building. Moti Cohen, who came from Jerusalem to be with the settlers, said protesters at the synagogue hoarded sand bags and cans of foam spray for the confrontation. A large banner draped over the facade read: "For the Lord will not abandon His people or abandon His land." Residents jeered the forces throughout the day, driving several soldiers to tears. "You're right! Cry like we are crying!" a settler, still in his white prayer shawl, shouted while being loaded onto a bus. By midday, 200 people had been removed, the army said. Noga Cohen, whose three children were maimed in a Palestinian shooting attack on a bus, said Israel was surrendering to Palestinian militants.
On the door of her house was a sign that read: "In the event you knock on the door, you are a direct partner in the most terrible crime in the history of the nation of Israel." Just a few yards outside Kfar Darom, dozens of Palestinians stood on rooftops to watch the evacuation. "For the first time in the last few years I'm standing here without any fear that Israelis will shoot at me because their battle today is against themselves," farmer Mohammed Bashir said. Sharon proposed his "disengagement plan" two years ago to ease Israel's security burden and help preserve Israel's Jewish character by placing Gaza's 1.3 million Palestinians outside the country's boundaries. Israel has occupied Gaza for 38 years.
The Palestinian Authority and the United States want the pullout to be the beginning of the "road map" peace process, meant to bring about an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. Palestinian militants are portraying the pullout as a victory for their suicide bombings and rocket attacks, and some Israelis fear they will resume their violence once the withdrawal is complete. Copyright © 2005 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. The information contained in the AP News report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.
END.

The Definition Of A Trade Or Worker's Union & It's Purpose:

July 25-2005:

Definition of A Trade Or Workers Union:

A body or collective of workers who earn wages or salaries: Do not own property that is used to accrue profit therefrom: And has specific employment interests, such as the following:

* Wants secure or permanent employment:* Medical Benefits:* Vacation leave with pay:
* Medical/Sick leave with pay:
* Pension/Retirement Plan:
* Maternity and Paternity leave:
* A contract Of Service That Guarantees Equal Pay for Equal Work/Tasks:
* Non discrimination policy for Gay-Lesbian-Ethnic-Religious, or Political reasons:

These are just some of the CORE dictates of an organized Trade Union.

Forming a Trade or Workers union has statutory approval according to The National Labor Act:

Before any union can be recognized by an employer or potential employer, it first must have the following:* A written petition from the majority of the workers in a particular undertaking, which will attest to this desire when shown to the employer by the worker's representative union.

* When this petition is brought to the employer by the Union representatives, they will ask the employer to accept the petition as bona-fide and voluntary.

* If the employer is progressive, and is inclined to engage in collective bargaining with this Union about the contract for employment, and all the other benefits so demanded. And if they both agree to this contract, it must be brought back to the collective for ratification.

* If the collective or members agree, then it will be accepted by both parties as a bona fide contract. This may include, amount of wages per category, per week, number of hours to work per week, and who will be the House Worker's representatives for the Union. In normal circumstances, the election of Union representatives on the job is done among workers themselves. This process follows the Democratic process of elections, balloting, and the one man/woman one vote process.

Rationale for Trade Unions:

* Individual bargaining with an employer for increase benefits, eg wages, medical, vacation etc, have been proven to be futile historically. More often than not, un-successfully by the employee.

* Having a collective bargaining process involved in this process, shows strength, unity of purpose, and collective will.* Workers have the right to Strike or Go Slow, as a means to make their employer pay attention to their needs.

Finally: According to Karl Marx: All the workers have to lose are their chains!
This remark was made in his dossier on Capitalism, and the concept that The Capitalist wants to maximize their incomes or profits at the workers demise or expense.

Special Note:All the worker has to offer is his/her personal skills, education, and availability to sell his labor. But does not own anything to accrue profit or income. Because of this reliance on wages or salaries, most employers or capitalists will use the employment reservoir to chose who they will exploit, for more or less wages!

Workers International-Unite:
Derryck S. Griffith.
Political Educator & Advocate.