Is a New U.S.-Latin American Cold War Brewing?

Creating the conditions of a new Cold War in South America is not in our interests as a nation. The use of a Columbian military base and the escalation of U.S. presence in the region is not conducive to nation-building on the continent. This continent has a long, sad and brutal history of intervention by exterior forces that entrenched colonialism, oppression and poverty. We would do well to foster dialog based on diplomacy without activating a military presence there.

Our effort must refocus on creating jobs, a new sustainable energy economy here in the U.S., rather than expend resources and more American lives coveting the oil rich resources of third world dictators. We can see with the situation in Afghanistan that is a failed strategy. I urge the Obama administration to come clean on its tactics in South America and refocus American will on developing our clean energy capacities at home.

Military ecalation in South America will lead to a destabilized region; this will retrench poverty conditions and loss of liberties for people already struggling to attain freedom. Further, this will add to an already burgeoning immigration issue on our southern border. This is a contentious issue this nation already refuses to deal with in a humane and just manner. The recent health care reform debate is a classic example of how this nation believes it will legislate this problem out of existence. The immigration issue will continue and the lack of a humane and pragmatic approach will not make it go away. Our military activities in South America will create a lose/lose proposition.

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Yes You Can, Mr. President!

Dear President Obama:

Sometimes, the answer is so obvious you can miss it. As the only Native American woman running in the 2010 midterm elections and being of tribal descent; I urge to you to resurrect your can-do attitude on Afghanistan. It is not unreasonable to adapt the strategy you used to transform the political landscape and turn the course of our country.

You can do the same in Afghanistan. Afghans, and the entire region--are awaiting the leadership they know you are capable of. Your strengths in the campaign and in captivating a global audience has been your message of inclusiveness. Recently on Fareed Zakaria's GPS; former Pakistan President Perez Musharraf discussed the need to enfranchise the Pashtun tribes into the governance of the nation.

A lawfully correct end to this illegal war cannot be viewed as a failure, or a defeat; I have learned through a lifetime of experiences one key survival strategy. That is to turn your disadvantages into advantages. You were disadvantaged by a prior administration to come in and fix an ill conceived crisis. Take the humane course of action. Democracy can take root in Afghanistan if all the players know they have recourse, respect, and the support of the international community.

You are President because we all agreed the prior holder of your office engaged in failed and dangerous policies. We elected the change you represented. Now is the time to hold the U.N. and the international community to a higher standard to monitor the fragile region and restore some standard of living, and the prospect of human rights.

I urge you to provide leadership to the international community, with the ulitmate demand for free and open elections from the Karzai government. End the practice of backing failed state dictators, as is the pattern of prior administrations. George Bush went into this conflict as a pariah, you are a better man. Please use this issue as one of your now famous "teaching moments," on how to discontinue prior failed policies.

Armed conflict is not a viable answer to address the conditions that bred extremism to begin with. I call on you to end the morally bankrupt misuse of the War Powers Resolution Authorization extended by Congress on the heels of the 9/11 attack.

The manner in which George Bush engaged this conflict is a stain on the history of our nation: from defying the UN Security council, who classified the 9/11 as a terrorist attack, and not an act of war--to the misuse of Article 5 of the NATO pact. Worse still, Bush invoked the same Kellogg Breand Pact of 1928 used by defense lawyers for Nazi defendants during the Nuremburg trials. The War in Afghanistan has been waged against stateless people; people who themselves have been victims of terrorism and aggression--by both terror organizations and states.

It is time to end this war of retaliation, vengeance and cultural bigotry. When this war started in 2001--there were those that worried that terminating statehood of Muslim nations, was in fact the aim of the Bush administration. There were the brave lawyers who stood up and questioned this as an act of outright genocide. It is an undeniable reality now, not only is Afghanistan as a failed state; but the world fears, and rightly so, the slow devolution of Pakistan. Wise people could see this coming, and they questioned.

The Bush administration has created a humanitarian crisis--it is upon your shoulders to restore a humane policy toward this region. There is no victory to be had, as this was never a legitimate war. You must however, rise to the challenge of leading the way for the international community to work at stabilizing this troubled region. As the Soviets, and now the American people have learned--military force is no recourse. The people of this region live in a continual state of war. No child should have to live like that; with no hope of a peaceful future.

Melinda Gopher, Candidate for the U.S. House, MT 2010

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Obama in China

"They are now more willing to take the role of a listener. And only in this way can the U.S. interests be better met."

Xue Chen, Fellow, Shanghai Institutes for Int'l. Studies

Media reports indicate ordinary Chinese had a cool reception for President Obama. Could it be solidarity with their relations in the U.S. who are among the organized effort to fight discrimination in the upcoming health care reform effort?

HEALTH CARE & IMMIGRATION

The health care legislation is bad for immigrants because it sets them apart, and denies their ability to secure this basic human need. The White House has not been forceful enough, and their support muted--for securing health care coverage for immigrant populations in the U.S.

Certainly more can be done to ensure all people have the coverage needed. Rep. Mike Honda D-CA, has led the way to address health disparities faced by Asian American immigrants; he could use a more forceful voice from the White House. It is awkward that China funds our deficit spending, and at the same time; we are denying Asian Americans equity in health reform.

_________

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HELP SHATTER A 233 YEAR OLD GLASS CEILING!

Greetings:

This is my first appeal for help in bringing historic change to Montana. I am asking you to join me in what is a historic effort to make history in 2010. Montana can be at the vanguard of change by sending the very first Native American woman to Congress!

I am asking for your support to shatter this 233-year-old glass ceiling! Elizabeth Cady Stanton was the first woman ever to run for the U.S. House in 1866. She did not succeed, and her effort paved the way for other women to follow.

Montana has been the standard bearer in American history and elected the first woman to serve in Congress--having elected Jeannette Rankin to the U.S. House in 1917. She was the first woman ever to serve in Congress--truly a historic milestone. In 1965, Patsy Takamoto Mink became the first woman of color, and of Pacific Islander descent to ever serve in the Congress.

America saw Shirley Chisholm run for and get elected to the U.S. Congress in 1968; making her the first African American woman to serve. In 1972, she made a symbolic bid for the U.S. Presidency. Not much has been said about her effort--given that Americans elected our first African American president in 2008. In 2007, Nancy Pelosi became the first woman ever to serve as Speaker of the House.

This is notable company; I have every intention to win this election and put Montana on the map once again to make a historic change. I grew up in a two room house on the infamous Hill 57. I understand hard times, and I have lived a lifetime of understanding struggle. The time has never been more challenging, and the need for leadership evident in the lives of all Montanans.

Our citizens struggle with paying their bills and are increasingly facing the stress of a down economy. We have a need to provide a quality education for ourselves and our children; yet we rank near the bottom in disposable income. Our challenges are great; we made historic change in 2008--and Democrats regained control of the White House and Congress. I urge Montana to follow through with turning our great nation in a new direction. We have much to offer--we have great resources; we must be prudent and fiscally responsible in building a better future.

I welcome your support, and although I understand times are tough---you will find I am a thrifty gal, and I will make great use of your support. I will be proud and honored to serve our great state, our nation and our great flag. Thank you and god bless our state!

Melinda Gopher

Candidate for the U.S. House

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Press Release: Campaign Action Alert Re: OBAMA JOBS SUMMIT, 12/09

November 13, 2009

Statement of Melinda Gopher, Candidate for the U.S. Congress-2010

President Obama has announced a December Jobs Summit to address the high unemployment situation in America. Since announcing my campaign in early October—I have been speaking out about the need to address the poverty and lack of job creation among the urban Indian population in Montana, as well as on the reservations. I am announcing a November 20th meeting in Great Falls to seek public comment—this will be held at the Great Falls Public Housing Authority, Parkdale Hall, tentatively scheduled for noon-5 pm.

I am organizing a Montana delegation to travel to the summit for this historic and unprecedented effort. I would like the support of the urban Indian communities to designate those that will begin to work to make a difference on this issue. Please---use my online resources to make your voice heard and to stay in contact with my campaign. They are listed below---thank you for your help! We can make this happen.

My Links:
http://www.melindaformontana.com/
http://nativesformelinda.ning.com/
my campaign email: MelindaGopher@gmail.com
Find me on Twitter: OjibwekweOgemaw and on Facebook: Melinda Gopher
Campaign Contacts: Great Falls 406-761-4871, Missoula 406-728-1055

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SUPPORT FOR SERIOUSLY INJURED VETS NEEDED

Please support S. 1963--a bill that provides aid to the families and caregivers of seriously wounded veterans.

http://veterans.senate.gov/press-releases.cfm?action=release.display&release_id=b435d7c9-f4af-4bc2-b94f-eb50697bab6c

Please call Sen. Tom Coburn--the lone Senator opposing this legislation and express your views:

His telephone contact: 202-224-5754.

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Injured Journalist Heeds the Call to Aid Injured Vets

This is a fine example of the good will that we are fortunate to have!

Thank you to Bob Woodruff!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bob-woodruff/families-caregivers-bear_b_352441.html

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Remembering The Fallen: Pray for World Peace

I was raised by Robert Gopher, a man who was a pacifist. According to our tribal spiritual beliefs; he was against any war for any reason. He believed the Creator endowed man and womankind with reason that eliminated the need for war. Our tribal traditions exalt us to honor peace. The Native American spirituality is a difficult pathway--military conflicts are inevitable. That being said; it is my regret our nation has not always been judicious in waging war for a just cause.


The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are such wars. This nation, our society and global society can no longer bear the cost of war--both in terms of lives lost and diminishing national and global resources. On this first Veteran's Day of the Obama administration; I urge all of the mass mobilized constituency to remember his message of change. We must renew our commitment to bring American sons and daughters home to their families. Peace in Afghanistan will not be achieved without a stong international commitment to regional peace and through diplomatic means.


In Montana, far too many of our state's veterans suffer the scars of war. It is troubling to me to witness the homeless veteran population in Missoula. They bear the seen and hidden scars of war. Nationwide, 12% of American Indian tribes are veterans, a percentage higher than any other demographic in the nation. Tribal veterans continue to lack equitable access to VA services and benefits--living in some of the most remote regions of our nation and state. I will continue to support improved veteran outreach to tribal veterans so after their term of service ends--they are not forgotten.


I would like to express support for the Obama administration to prioritize the long needed overhaul of the VA rating system. The rating system is mired in the World War II era. This situation reflects the extreme neglect of the prior administration, and the group think of those that hide behind Old Glory, but have turned a blind eye to the suffering of our returning veterans. I urge President Obama to continue the work needed to ensure our veterans are cared for by our nation. On Monday President Obama signed an Executive Order establishing an interagency Council on Veterans Employment.


A Message of Hope to All Veterans


I am uniquely qualified to express my understanding to the countless veterans suffering from combat related injuries. I live with one such man. I would like to introduce Brock Conway, my partner-in-life of over 13 years. Brock Conway is a combat disabled veteran who served in Desert Storm. Prior to the commencement of Desert Storm, he served in Operation Eastern Exit--evacuating 281 civilians from Somalia in January 1991; a nation torn apart by civil strife.


The trauma of war is very difficult for veterans to deal with; I will never know the personal agony. Yet, families of veterans can often feel overwhelmed when their family member struggles. The road to healing is a long road, but it is not a hopeless road.


There have been many struggles for my family to cope with the sacrifices he has made as a veteran. It has never been easy, and there have been times when we did feel hopeless. But he found strength in the older native veterans who guided him to a better life.


Brock has made a proud existence for himself in the alcohol and drug free spiritual traditions of our tribes. He has worked hard to educate himself, receiving a Masters Degree in Human Service Counseling from the University of Great Falls. He received additional training in Internet Technology and a year of law school. He is the proud father of our four children. He finds healing in the arts, and he is a powwow grass dancer. He has become a Native American leader after he left military service. He is now struggling like any striving entrepreneur, to get his technology venture off the ground.


His personal story is one of overcoming great odds to succeed. He has had a difficult road, and sometimes I felt the VA was a huge bureaucracy that was unresponsive to his needs. His story, like many veterans, is one where he has prevailed despite health setbacks. Our veterans should never feel that they are alone, but there have been many times when we felt abandoned by the system. We find a lot of happiness in the simple pleasures in life.


I hope that by sharing our story, the many veterans in our state realize that as a candidate for Montana's seat in the U.S. House--I do understand on a very personal level--the struggles and hardships you all endure. I live with and deal with these frustrations on a daily basis. I believe this has sensitized me to the very real truth that human life is very precious, we should only wage war as a last resort.

Note from Melinda Gopher: The Gopher campaign has appointed Richard Parenteau, a member of the Little Shell Band of Chippewa and a veteran of the Iraq War--to conduct special campaign outreach along with Brock Conway to Montana veterans. Brock will work with veteran owned businesses. The Gopher Campaign will deploy Parenteau to spearhead an expedited effort to secure legislation recognizing this Chippewa band that was recently denied recognition by the Dept. of Interior. To establish email contact: MelindaGopher@gmail.com, mrbrockconway@excite.com. An email contact directly to Richard Parenteau is forthcoming and will be posted here.

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Rehberg Shares Bachmann's Obstructionist Views

I first wrote about a town hall in Hamilton conducted by Rep. Rehberg in Hamilton in August. I wrote about the experience for the Huffington Post as part of its Eyes & Ears segment. I noted the manner in which the whole town hall was not really a town hall but something more sinister. It had the creepy feeling of the Third Reich political rally. It turns out I was not imagining this. While Native Americans were not the butt of racial hostility at this event; I was very uncomfortable remaining in what was supposed to be an open and and participatory form of government.

In a recent article in the Missoula Independent, reporter Alex Sakariassen explores the growing right wing extremism in the Bitterroot Valley in the cover story Questioning Conservativism. The article seems to surmise that extremism is linked in part to a tightening economy. I find the us-versus-them ideology troubling. I find it more troubling that our lone Congressman is finding sanctuary with an increasingly conservative and evermore self-marginalized base. Maybe its just politics as usual; as a Native American woman who has encountered multiple forms of discrimination. Rehberg's tactics are not all right with me.

His support of HR 3400 the Empowering Patients First Act is apparent; his ties to Bachmann are evident by the Republican Study Committee, a conservative House group. The RSC is very proud of Michele Bachmann; with Rehberg's support of HR 3400, many of its provisions are included in the initial House compromise today; the hard won legal rights of a woman's privacy and reproductive health choices are under assault. This assault is from Rehberg, the RSC and Michele Bachmann. A recent rally led by Bachmann, which she called The Superbowl of Freedom, resulted in several arrests within the halls of the Congress.

Scary rhetoric is not representation. It is obstructionist at a time when we need leadership in our representative government. Rolling back federal obligation's to advance women's health care and freedom of choice that was affirmed in Roe v. Wade, is not progress. The provisions of HR 3400 are dangerous and undermine democratic principles. In this bill, House conservatives are attempting to extend free speech protections to the very extremist ideology to attack these hard won rights. I urge all Montanans to vote for the legal protections that ensure women can continue to access health equity.

I believe that this kind of distorted logic is not helpful to the tasks we have to rebuild this nation's shattered economy and the profound neglect we have encountered by the previous administration. We are capable of sound choices and I call upon all of you to resoundingly defeat Rep. Rehberg in November 2010.

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Bring Back Depression Era PWA to Address Severe Job Crisis in America

I believe the ARRA of 2009 was just the beginning of what is needed to turn this nation's economy in the right direction. As many of you are all too aware--the stimulus never reached the lower tiers of the economy. Banks are not lending and economic growth is nowhere near where it should be.

It is notable that poverty has made an unwelcome comeback and it is a social condition becoming more entrenched as each week passes. I have posted Paul Krugman's Op-Ed piece in the NY Times; I agree that the Obama administration was too cautious in projecting what was needed to make an economic recovery. I fear not only a lost decade as what gripped Japan in the 1990s; I fear a lost generation due to a lack of economic opportunity.

We as a nation are not creating the value we are capable of. We lack leadership on this issue as this administration attempts to find its bearings. We have become too bogged down in the health care reform argument; we were promised this would be completed during the summer.

As a result; jobs--which are a key ingredient to economic recovery; are no where near what is needed. The administration stressed this past week that 690,000 jobs had been saved and/or created. In 2008, 2.4 million jobs were lost. Another 1.9 million jobs were lost the first nine months of 2009. The unemployment rate for October, 2009 is 10.2%.

While there is some slowing of new filings for unemployment, clearly, more needs to be done to create jobs at a faster pace. Rather than "encourage" banks to lend to small business; the administration must enforce lending to get our economy moving again. We must direct work toward the non-profit sector; much like the "make work" Public Works Administration during the New Deal. Montana non-profits are bearing the brunt of the recession--they are strapped for cash and are forced to cut services at a time when these vital services are needed most.

Tribes are lacking critical infrastructural needs as the result of eight years of neglect; the stimulus must be expanded to meet tribal challenges on and off the reservation communities. Non-profits can play a unique role in meeting the needs of urban and rural job and economic development. This administration must move faster and quicken the pace toward recovery. As we are seeing these tough times deepen every day--it is clear that there cannot be a "jobless recovery." Please share your ideas!

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