Column
“Georgia On My Mind” ―Dazed Republican States Strive to Adopt Autocracy
“…if you were lucky and you cast that vote they dreaded, and it turned out they hated the outcome, they would simply declare the republican loser, the victor.”
―Don Okolo
In truth, if you were searching for America’s most evil City or State, you’d have three, maybe four southern States to run through the mill of ignominy, to see which one stands with her head held high…proud she had beaten out the other three. The four States in contention would be, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and Texas: Texas, because she has this dirty, soulless enclave called Vidor. Her people are mostly the long-haired, fifteen century dwellers, whose mugs are jarring to look at.
The common thread these States have is that they have country songs written in their names…and they are great songs. As the city of Vidor in Texas remains the most deplorable and the most dangerous city for any non-white person to live in, you would be surprised that a sizeable number of blacks and Spanish people brave the threat to their lives to live in this hellhole.
Texas is not Georgia. Georgia is the bottom pit of hell. Maybe, Texas is a few rungs up the ladder, even as the State is inching close to the bottom. And one of these days, the State of Texas will draw level with Georgia in that sweltering pit where Satan sits on his throne. A brand spanking, newly rewritten version of the Divine Comedy, Dante’s Inferno, is what I am offering you in this piece. How could the current situation between the two dueling States not remind you of Dante Alighieri’s masterpiece? Satan is sitting on his throne…and on his right and left sides are the two States that have betrayed humanity. Texas and Georgia have replaced Judas and Brutus; they have kicked the despicable Roman and the contemptible Jew out of their once beloved place in the firmament of Hell. Now Satan has both his flanks covered by the biggest, and the baddest twosome of the fifty States in the republic. There is joy in Hell. Yes, I said it: There is singing and dancing. They are inside the free-flowing, wicked kind of frolic…of no-holds barred licentiousness…and the State of Georgia…her representatives, that is, are the suppliers of the States renowned moonshine whiskey, labelled, “Hellot’s Brew’.
You may want to ask yourselves why modern-day man would sink into this depth of murk and self-indulgence
Even the tall Georgia Pines are bent double, wallowing inside this mote of pure evil. Some of the denizens of this depravity, whose voices they want stifled can be heard moaning in agony, wondering how long it would be before someone would come along and pull them from under the weight of absolute misery crushing them…to free them, and to alleviate their pain. They are begging…calling Coca-Cola, the big Delta Airline, to empathize, not offer condolences, because the body polity could still be alive and breathing in shallow patterns below. But the wickedness that has been tendered is Teflon-like in tenacity, and only the fires of the bigger House could sear through it to render it moot and useless.
Here are the dangers of this flaming conflagration if it is allowed to remain an inferno. The death of magnificence (Democracy) is one. The rise of autocracy is assured. States with republican majorities will have no reason to cower and not follow this path… were no guns are aimed at them. This path of no resistance would carry them to the infamous gallery from where they would sit with unbridled power and complacency. Here, on this plateau of grifters, these men would govern with a beck and call. You may want to ask yourselves why modern-day man would sink into this depth of murk and self-indulgence and decree that the voices of his/her ilk should rise to the heavens, and the voices of those he considers leftovers of creation, be mooted, and tossed. And on the day of signing, these curs robbed it in; they sat under the canopy of an image…the scorching metaphor of indignity antebellum south was known for…the one bastion of her great slave-owning and trading days…the one symbol of inhumanity they wear like a halo, to sign and seal, the resurgence of a certain mastery over other humans. F%$# ‘em!!!
Nothing will ever be the same if this were allowed to stand. I don’t see how the spineless democratic side of this divide would do anything to stop this…at least not with a republican in their midst…the one garbed in democratic-styled mantle, the Senator from Virginia, the one towing the republican line, Joe Manchin. They have figured it out. And it is not pretty. The unexpected turnout of democratic voters that repelled Donald Trump…that installed two new Georgian Democratic Senators, Ossorff and Warnock, was the last straw. If you understood how the State of Georgia rolled with all social issues…her Statewide depressive kind of politics, and the Devil’s ownership of the Mason/Dixie line, you’d know that what they did cutting access to voting was long overdue…again, given the nature of the beast.
Take a moment and think about the two dismal things about the voting law these white men in black suits signed into law. Voting lines would be long; an attempt would be made to cause delays, and have people stand in line for more than ten hours to vote. In their thinking, the resilience of the black voter had to be contained. So, if you were foolhardy and impertinent to the white, republican politician’s brand, and stood in that line, they’d be on patrol to make sure no one handed you a bottle of water or, any kind of ration. When that one element was worked into the original draft, you should know that these men and women had lost the last vestiges of what made them human beings. That alone should explain the obvious; wolves in sheep clothing; man as the quintessential predator to his fellow man. It doesn’t end there; if you were lucky and you cast that vote they dreaded, and it turned out they hated the outcome, they would simply declare the republican loser, the victor. It begs the question; do I need to vote at all? In essence, that is what they want from you; a level of disgust to cause you to abandon the system some of us have died to keep.
In essence, that is what they want from you; a level of disgust to cause you to abandon the system some of us have died to keep.
Only animals are governed by instinct. Humans have justifications; they are motivated by nuances of justice, ethics, and morality to create laws humans will abide by. That Georgian voter suppression law was passed on instinct. Almost every animal has enough sense not to devour its own. Not with these republicans. The depth of the insanity into which they have sunk is unfathomable. And with all things in the animal kingdom, the ones at the top of the food chain, would mosey on down after they have marked their territories. They know you couldn’t up and challenge their authority and not get eaten alive. Governor Kemp and his blue-faced political kind are expecting that there would be no challenges mounted. They are aware that this one gambit is tantamount to throwing crap against the wall and see what sticks. You blocks, you stones, you worse than senseless things. Oh you hard hats, you cruel men of Georgia.
♦ Don Okolo, Professor and filmmaker, is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News. He is the author of many books.
♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute.
As we celebrate the 115th Posthumous birthday of Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Oyeniyi Iyanda Awolowo, GCFR, it is essential to reflect on the valuable lessons that today’s politicians can learn from his exemplary leadership. Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a visionary and transformative leader, left a lasting legacy of progressive governance, innovative policies, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of Nigeria. Chief Awolowo’s emphasis on reform to drive progress, development, and prosperity for all Nigerians remains as relevant today as it was during his tenure. In honouring Chief Awolowo’s birthday, it is fitting to consider how his principles can guide policymakers in navigating the complexities of modern governance and leading Nigeria toward a brighter and more sustainable future.
Reflecting on the indelible mark he left on Nigeria through his visionary leadership, particularly his groundbreaking free education policy, Chief Awolowo’s legacy continues to resonate with many Nigerians, myself included. Personally, I owe much of who I am today to the opportunities afforded to me through this policy. In honour of Chief Awolowo’s birthday, it is fitting to explore and celebrate his attributes that today’s politicians can emulate for the betterment of our nation.
Chief Obafemi Awolowo was a visionary leader who played a key role in shaping modern Nigeria. His commitment to the principles of justice, equity, and progress made him a champion of the common man and a symbol of good governance. As we celebrate his 115th Posthumous birthday, it is important to reflect on his legacy and the values he stood for.
♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute.
In today’s complex and dynamic workforce, the partnership between the government and labour unions is integral in driving sustainable progress. Both entities need to forge a unified front and identify shared priorities, particularly regarding job creation, workplace safety, fair wages, and social benefits. In doing so, they can collaborate effectively to address the needs of workers while also advancing broader national objectives, such as the establishment of a living wage.
The intricate relationship between government policies and labour unions presents a complex and challenging dynamic. While the government focuses on implementing policies to drive economic growth, social welfare, and national development, labour unions prioritize advocating for the rights and well-being of workers. This dichotomy can result in apparent discord, with labour unions resorting to strikes and protests to express their disagreement with government policies.
As the government pursues policies serving the broader national interest, it is essential to acknowledge the advocacy of labour unions for the welfare of workers. Despite occasional conflicts of interest, fostering understanding and cooperation between these two entities is critical. By delving into the complexities of this relationship and exploring avenues for collaboration, a more balanced and harmonious approach to policy-making can be achieved. This essay highlights the significance of cultivating understanding and cooperation between the government and labour unions, with the ultimate goal of attaining mutually beneficial outcomes.
However, it is important to recognize that both the government and the labour union share a common goal of promoting the welfare and prosperity of the workforce. Instead of approaching issues with hostility, there is a crucial need to foster understanding and cooperation between the two parties. This can be achieved through open dialogue, transparent communication, and a willingness to engage in constructive discussions.
One approach to building understanding and cooperation is for the government to provide comprehensive explanations for its policies and the rationale behind them. When labour unions are presented with clear and detailed information about the objectives and expected outcomes of government policies, they are better equipped to assess the potential impact on their members. This level of transparency helps to dispel any misconceptions or mistrust, paving the way for more informed and productive conversations.
Additionally, the government can actively seek input from labour unions during the policy-making process. By involving union representatives in discussions and seeking their perspectives, the government demonstrates a commitment to considering the interests of workers. This collaborative approach not only enriches the decision-making process but also conveys a message of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Furthermore, the government and labour unions must work together to identify areas of common ground. For instance, in the manufacturing sector, both parties may share a common goal of ensuring workplace safety. By collaborating on safety protocols and regulations, the government and unions can demonstrate their commitment to protecting workers’ well-being. Another example is related to fair wages, where both the government and unions can collaborate to establish minimum wage policies that balance the interests of businesses and workers. In doing so, they can provide a foundation for equitable compensation while also fostering a healthy business environment.
Additionally, in the public sector, both entities can work together to address issues such as pension plans and healthcare benefits, ensuring they align with the needs of employees and the fiscal sustainability of government programs. Through these examples, it is evident that aligning on common objectives allows the government and labour unions to engage in constructive dialogue and collaborative decision-making, yielding benefits for both workers and the broader society.
Certainly! The synergy of working together enables the government and labour unions to come up with a living wage for workers. By collaborating to identify areas of common ground, such as fair wages, both parties can align on the shared objective of ensuring that workers receive a living wage that supports their basic needs and fosters financial stability. For example, in sectors such as hospitality or retail, the government and unions can join forces to establish minimum wage standards that are reflective of the cost of living and provide workers with a means to support themselves and their families.
Furthermore, through open dialogue and collaboration, the government and unions can leverage their combined expertise to develop comprehensive wage policies that address industry-specific challenges while promoting socio-economic prosperity. This cooperative approach not only benefits workers by ensuring a fair and sustainable wage but also supports businesses in attracting and retaining a skilled and motivated workforce. By harnessing the synergy of their efforts, the government and labour unions can pave the way for the implementation of living wage initiatives that not only uplift workers but also contribute to the overall well-being of communities and the economy.
Several real-world examples highlight the power of collaboration between the government and labour unions. In countries such as Germany and the Nordic nations, social dialogue between government, employers, and trade unions has been instrumental in shaping policies that support workers’ rights, economic growth, and social stability. Through constructive negotiation and cooperation, these nations have been able to navigate complex economic challenges while upholding strong labour protections.
Essentially, fostering understanding and cooperation between the government and labour unions is indispensable for the effective implementation of policies and the promotion of the well-being of workers. By prioritizing transparency, dialogue, and collaboration, both parties can find common ground and work towards mutually beneficial solutions. This approach not only promotes social harmony but also leads to more sustainable and impactful policy outcomes. The relationship between the government and labour unions is a fundamental aspect of societal well-being and economic prosperity. It is imperative to recognize that effective policies must consider the rights and welfare of workers in conjunction with the broader national interest.
This cooperative approach is crucial for shaping policies that uphold the rights, dignity, and prosperity of the workforce. It not only fosters a more positive and productive working environment but also contributes to the long-term resilience of the socio-economic fabric. Embracing a spirit of understanding and cooperation between the government and labour unions is not only essential for harmonious labour relations but also integral for the long-term sustainability and prosperity of the economy.
As we move forward, let us recognize the power of collaboration in shaping policies that not only serve economic growth and national development but also prioritize the rights, dignity, and prosperity of the workforce. Promoting mutual understanding and cooperation between the government and labour unions is a significant step toward achieving policy outcomes that align with the interests of both parties and contribute to the overall advancement of society.
Conclusively, the synergy between the government and labour unions is imperative for achieving a fair and equitable working environment. By aligning on shared goals related to living wages and other vital employment factors, both parties can harness their collective influence to implement policies that not only benefit individual workers but also contribute to the welfare of the entire society. Through ongoing collaboration and cooperation, they can pave the way for a more resilient and inclusive economy, thereby fostering a better quality of life for all.
♦ Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a college professor
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