Solving poverty in the U.S.
Thanks to Jim Hightower for pointing out the absurdity of the recent “poverty is over” announcement (Re: “Have you heard the news? Poverty is over!”, The Highroad, Nov. 29, 2018). For one in five children, one in seven seniors, and millions of other Americans who live in poverty, this is a slap in the face. But each of us can speak up to make a difference, calling for full funding of the SNAP program and an attack on the causes of poverty in the richest country in the world. Our calls, letters, and visits to those who represent us in Congress can help turn this around. Organizations like RESULTS (results.org) help people learn to be effective advocates and take actions end poverty in our nation.
Willie Dickerson/via internet
On organic crop insurance
Will Brendza wrote an interesting piece titled, “Boulder County’s reported 80 percent farm failure rate doesn’t tell the full story.” (Re: Boulderganic, Nov. 29, 2018).
He writes “And since the U.S. Dep’t of Agriculture doesn’t offer crop insurance for most organic produce farming, severe and unpredictable weather can make or break these farms.” This is not completely accurate.
The USDA does offer crop insurance for organic farmers — see rma.usda.gov/news/currentissues/organics. Why an organic farmer chooses to participate or not merits its own discussion.
Meredith Kaufman/via internet
On synagogue shooting
The Rocky Mountain Peace and Justice Center deplores and opposes all forms of violence, racism, and oppression. We are deeply horrified by massacre of Jews at the Pittsburgh synagogue. We send our heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends of the victims and to everyone who feels threatened by anti-semitism. Violent anti-semitism has taken an enormous toll on human beings over many centuries and in all parts of the world. Unfortunately hatred of Jews is by no means dead and must be firmly resisted wherever it occurs. The RMPJC also deplores the ongoing targeting and killing of people of color, LGBTQ, immigrants and all other people targeted by violence.
Betty Ball/Rocky Mountain Peace and Justice Center
