IN response to Brainwrap's essay "Update x3: MICHIGAN: HOLY F*CKING SH*T. Spread the word on this NOW." I offer this reply. This the letter I sent out to my reps, as well as my superintendent of schools, and every principal in my district. You may use it in part or full as needed.
Electablog has much too. http://www.eclectablog.com/...
Dear Madams and Sirs,
The package of bills making their way through the legislature, House Bill 6004 and Senate Bill 1358, House Bill 5923, and Senate Bill 620, are completely counter productive and counter-intuitive to a healthy educational system.
Know that, each and every one of you or your compatriots that vote for passing them will face opposition from recall to a full blown campaign against your re-election at any time in the future.
We, the people you are sworn to represent, virulently oppose the privatization of our school system. We understand fully that to take our public monies, and funnel them into a for-profit system is theft. We understand that in a for-profit system, value has to be stolen from the bottom in order for the top to profit.
Like the misnomer, "right to work" this is a blatant attempt to frighten us into being complicit in losing a class war against us. The rich can pay, the middle and lower classes will end up with an inferior product at the very core of what could lift them out of it - their education.
Michigan voted soundly against PA4. This, and other bills like it are an attempt to side step our ability to work and vote in our own best interests. You aren't stupid, either. You know we know.
But be on notice! As you further attempt to reduce our collective power and reduce our expectations of, and actual standards of living we still get to vote for you personally. Your JOBS are at stake along with our children's futures.
I will, and every one I know, will oppose you, hold you to account and spread the word. I am a political journalist and have a radio show. I intend to name names, and stay on it until you drop this attempt to let the loss be our kids and their teachers to enrich a very few.
Education is a right, local control is a right, bought and paid for by the collective pooling of our money to make it free and accessible for all children.
You are quietly declaring war on our rights. We will fight back.
Diane M Gee