Though I am new here to the Daily Kos, I am not new to politics, blogs, threads or giving my two cents worth of opinions. I am proud to be a Shameless Agitator. What does that mean exactly? It means to be an activist in politics, an advocate for a cause or causes and a person willing to "go to bat" for those people who feel they have no voice or no presence in the wheels of government. Here's my story:
Ankylosing Spondylitis a disease which attacks the bones and muscles of the spinal column thereby limiting movement and range of motion. It takes away your stamina and endurance.
It took away my profession and my livelihood.
I am a former teacher, proud to call myself a teacher for life, certified in seven subjects including History and Government.
I am an Advocate for People with Disabilities, a fiery one, who fears no one in power when it comes to legislation that I feel may hurt or help my disabled Brothers and Sisters.
I am an Activist, a longtime, proud activist for Civil Rights and Social Justice.
I am a Progessive, Liberal, Gnostic, Freethinking Democrat.
I am proud to be a Freemason and Shriner.
but most important of all, I want you to know:
I am a Person with a Disability and there is NO SHAME in being Disabled. I wear it as a badge of honor if you will, that I am different, that I still matter and that my body might be a bit of a problem to me, my mind is as good as anyone's.
You want to know why you wont see me aligning myself with any Democrat right now? Why I mean what I say when I say that it doesnt matter who is the leader of our party come November, I will support them 10000000%?
Because I know that the country, my interests, and the interests of so many people who feel they don't have a voice in politics, that have been thrown away for the last eight years, that need our help. That need Healthcare they can afford, wages that truly sustain them, jobs that matter, inclusion that makes them feel wanted in a society that wants to look the other way, and so many other issues (livable SSI payments without all the rules that force you into poverty is my biggest personal fight)... I know that when a Democrat takes that oath of office in January '09.. I know I can rest a little, I know I can be full of hope and dreams again.. then I'll get up the next morning and don my Shameless Agitator hat once more and continue the fight.. the good fight.. the necessary fight.. for those who feel powerless, unwanted or shunned... you want to know why I am Democrat, a Liberal and a Progressive?
Its called Love. Social Justice. Civil Rights.
Need I say more?