Re: [Mpls] Antiwar resolutions

[Jordan S. Kushner]

Britt Robson's sarcastic analogy below between upporting an anti-war resolution and refusing to pay taxes or immolating oneself might have rhetorical appeal for those against a resolution, but lacks any logical connection.  There is an obvious difference in "sacrafice" between supporting a municipal resolution, and commiting civil disobedience or burining oneself.   While the latter actions may well demonstrate commitment, no one is demanding any such actions from the city council much less make judgments about a decision to engage in such actions.  The issue is merely whether the city council can make a political statement in the course of its regular duties.  The differences in consequences to balance should be self-explanatory.   The opposition to taking a stand based on consequences such as "it is not a proper  use of time," "it will cause divisions in the community," "it will make our Republican masters angry" seem to raise questions about commitment that are fair for discussion.    The argument that against action because it will hurt Minneapolis' treatment by state-level Republicans is particularly bothersome.  Should we surrender our collective rights to self-expression based on fears of Republican retaliation?  I guess we need not wait for the national and state Republicans to pass more legislation to dismantle our basic freedoms; we will give them up on our own.  I further doubt that muting expression is even an effective way to get the Republicans to provide more money.  The reality is that the Republican agenda - both statewide and national - is inherently hostile to cities.   Pawlenty and company, who have in particular appealed to suburbanites at the expense of city residents, are going to look to screw Minneapolis regardless of how much the city government officials supplicate.  It seems that all out political warfare has the best chance to be effective in the short and long run.  The Republicans will only be moved when their suburban powerbase understands that their economic well being depends on the well being of Minneapolis and St. Paul.   Jordan Kushner a current suburban resident who appreciates Minneapolis