Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Human Rights

I finally know which career path I want to take, but now its just going to take time.  Since a child, I have always felt a way about injustice--mainly acts against ones human rights. I really want to attend law school, but I have hang ups about the price and the current economy. It wouldnt be wise to enter law school without having a guranteed job lined up. Also, having two small children doesn't help either!

This is why I chose Public Policy. I can work my way up to where the cost of law school wouldn't matter.

This came to mind today when someone at my current job, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, asked what exatcly did I want to do with my life. I am finally very confident with my answer. I kno

Monday, November 22, 2010

Emancipate yourself...

I titled my blog "Emancipate Yourself..." because I feel as though we are lost without prior knowledge. For example: I went to my son's preschool for a "Thanksgiving Feast". So far, everything had been politically correct at his Pre-K. No longer did they tell the children to sit "Indian-style" it is now "criss-cross applesauce". They didnt celebrate Halloween, but they did celebrate "Harvest Day" (where they dressed in costumes and collected candy from a Senior home).

As I stepped through the halls lined with Turkey's and Pumpkins, I felt the Autumn spirit. Like oranges and browns. Nutmeg and Cinnamon. Apple pies and Pumpkin pies. Charlie Brown First Thanksgiving. I opened his classroom door and there my son stood in a homemade pilgrim hat scribbled with blue crayon. I looked to the right. The other four year-olds  in the preschool class adjacent to his wore construction paper hats adorned  with colorful feathers.

But, as I speak about his preschool, I am also to blame. I have watch the Redskins, I have "Tomahawk" chopped for the braves, and I had no qualms about watching the Cheifs. Its awful.

I highly doubt Thanksgiving was a peaceful, happy day for the Native Americans. They didnt sit silently in small pox infested blankets given to them by pilgrims--So why are we pretending it is? Im not asking for these holidays to be ripped away totally, but just learn the background because Thankgiving didnt start with Pilgrims and Native Americans.

For the record: I am not Native American. I have no American ancestry. But, my heart goes out to those who are. Imagine walking around with people parading around in your cultural garments. People making a mockery of your spiritual dances. Or roads named like "Indian Trail" supposedly in your honor.

Just a little thing to think about as you slice your Turkey this Thanksgiving holiday...

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Derailed Train of Thought

I currently attend GSU. I am pursuing a Masters in Public Policy Non-Profit Management. I recently recieved my Bachelors in English and the Policy Studies is kicking my butt. Its a different way of thinking. Its more logical than the Literature track I have been on for the past 4-5 years ( I have an Associates in English also). I no longer have write 6-10 page papers twice a week (which is a relief at times), but I do end up reading a whole lot more. All in all, like the way the classes are going. I see it as preparation for the non-profit I am planning to start.

Close your eyes:
Imagine coming to America. Not knowing the ropes. Not knowing the ins and outs of Financial Aid or not not knowing that there is help for academic counseling if needed. Or imagine that your parents are unable to convey their concern for your welfare? There is a lot of infoprmation out there, but it is scattered. I would like to set up a center that enable people to better fit in society. We are pushing towards a more global society and courses such as Accent Neutraliztion is a slap in the face to individuals who are are. There is a better way to help people who work here, live here, and pay taxes.

Im signing off for now...stay tuned.