the attitude where we are afraid to fight for what we believe in (in this case that a person's ethic/religious/cultural background should not determine their worth in our society) is killing us.  The attitude where we are more concerned about shaping ourselves to be acceptable to some mythical 'middle america' (which is largely an invention of the right wing), than fighting for what we believe in, is why so many people buy into the idea that 'democrats are pussies'.  In fact, as far as electibility is concerned, it was the Democrats who were the most authentic and strong advocates for progressive principles and beliefs who carried the day.  People like Harold Ford lost because they ran a pandering campaign.  As I said about, we don't have to be afraid of them.  If we lead, America will follow.  She always has.