Hello People:
It's been a few weeks. I apologize for that. Blogging is not something I am used to and I'm growing into it while managing the reality of my life which involves seeking employment. Ugh.
With this said, I have made a list of "things" that I want to say in 2011 via video messages, but before that can happen, I want to close 2010 with some words for the people of Darfur and Sudan, specifically Southern Sudan.
It is with such a heavy heart that I say that I don't have much hope that the "international community" will take significant enough actions between now and January 9th - when Southern Sudan is scheduled to have an election to become independent from the North.
Why does this matter?
Well, I could write a lot. But a good source for information on who did and said what and when in Sudan is www.enoughproject.org
Though the news is about Southern Sudan right now, and not Darfur, the region in Northern Sudan where hundreds of thousands of people where driven from their homes, murdered, and raped over the last few years in what was called a "genocide" by the "international community for a while." So, basically, if the country splits and a civil war or worse starts up, that is not going to help stabilize the future for Darfuris which is how I got involved in the country of Sudan in the first place.
So, this New Year's Eve blog entry has me remembering that the world called the situation in Darfur a "genocide" (actually President George W. Bush was the first to use the word). I think that was in 2005/06?
And... "Genocide" is a "BIG" word for me.
If I am going to use that word, let me tell you something my friends, you are going to see a whole lotta action.
And, I have taken lots of action since 2006. I had never been to a rally, written a government official. Nothing aside from a few Salvation Army and save the planet donations. So, to make my point about what Darfur made me do - I somehow got invited and ended up at a human rights panel discussion organized by the United Nations and I got 20 seconds with a man who turned out to be a key peace negotiator for Darfur at the U.N. The thing is, I had no idea who he was, but that he was involved with human rights at the U.N. and I was holding my Darfur information kits, and so I talked about Darfur and I told him they needed to let George Clooney be George Clooney and that Ann Curry deserved an exclusive. He knew who George was, not Ann Curry. I explained, she's the only Western journalist to have interviewed the President al-Bashir for two hours, and she waited 2.5 years to get a permit to enter the country.
See? What am I pitching? ... it just came pouring out of me. Then he told me he was the lead negotiator, and I wonder how he's doing right now.
Anyhow, I give this example (and there were more -- including a SuperBowl ad idea... not kidding) because Darfur has had me dig deep, and then deeper, think outside of the box, throw the box away, and then give up for a while, and then start it all over again with the digging and the unboxing ...
So - here's my big lesson from Darfur, ready????
The genocide is Darfur was a violent form of extreme racism in my opinion. Where black Muslim tribes were targeted and identified by the color of their skin.
So, my lesson is in realizing that I have taken action to bring justice to victims of racism far, far, away - but what have I done for victims of racism in my community, in my country? Not much, if anything. And there are varying degrees of "racism" - suffering can occur in ways that do not mean that someone is holding a machete to your head or burning down your house.
Anyhow - So, going forward, as I organize Actionshops that are tied to a "them" or "over there" issue, I will find a way to tie the same issue back to "us" to "over here." It will be double the work. But,the work needs to get done :)
If you want more information or to join large advocacy groups for Sudan check out www.sudannow.org or www.savedarfur.org and if you would like to connect to the organization that actor and U.N. ambassador for peace, George Clooney started with others, go to www.notonourwatchproject.org to sponsor a woman in Southern Sudan (I think they are still active in this region) www.womenforwomeninternational.org.
And to follow via satellite the (sadly anticipated) violence on the border between Northern and Southern Sudan, connect to the Satelitte Sentinel Project at www.satsentinel.org.
So. Voila. I say a prayer for Sudan, and actually the Ivory Coast, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo...oh al right -- all of Africa! :)
Me and We is all We'll Ever Be.
See you in 2011!
Veronique
Friday, December 31, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
Rallies, mid-term elections and feeling fatigued
Hello People ...
I feel a little guilty for not blogging more regularly, and a bit perplexed that I have only told one person about my blog... my best friend from college, Victoria -- we have been supporting one another in "making our dreams come true" for years now. Her dream: getting published, Me: getting a democratic practice of open dialogue going.
So... I went the Jon Stewart/Stephen Colbert "Restore Sanity and/or Keep Fear Alive" rally(rallies) in Washington D.C. this past weekend. I took at bus from NYC at 8 a.m. on Saturday and was on The Mall by 2 p.m. The official count according to me is: hundreds of thousands of people - for the 10 minutes it took me to walk from the subway to the mall, I was walking against a current of people leaving the rally at least 10 people wide and then when I got the mall all I could see was people when I looked towards The Washington Monument and then in the opposite direction towards the Capitol. And, the ocean of people trying to get on subways headed back towards Virginia -- People, people, people were swarming the streets.
I made my way with one of my friends from middle school kind of sort of close to the front - I heard three or four words here and there, and could barely see the video screen.
I remember looking around and enjoying just people mostly being quiet and standing - not even talking to the people they were with. It made me feel reassured that I wasn't alone on an island - that maybe people would really want to have 'reasonable' conversations about the situations that are challenging our people and nation today?
As for the mid-term elections, it was bittersweet for me, as, I have not yet heard if I have be granted American citizenship -- and I live in CT -- it was a BIG voting opportunity with a senate seat up for grabs, the governorship (did you hear about Bridgeport not having enough ballots??? really??? my goodness) and my district congressman/woman position.
So, once again, I watched. I also chose to click the channel to another channel as often as possible whenever a political attack ad came on - didn't want any candidates thinking that I was counted in the "viewing" statistics that the cable/tv operator would be giving them. Funny thing, I probably only switched the channel 50% of the time because I would automatically zone out/tune out the ads and would realize it too late -- I am numb to the political ads. My brain totally stops processing what it is seeing/hearing.
As for staying informed: I'm watching the developments in Southern Sudan -- remember the "genocide in Darfur" does that ring a bell? It's okay if it doesn't... ask me.
I'm up and down these days. Exhausted from my job search.
I WON A HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST IN DC!
Oh! I almost forgot -- the funnest thing that I did since I last blogged was dress up as Mademoiselle Rochambeau (the sister of the unsung American founding father - FRENCH General Rochambeau -- google him: he convinced George Washington to take on the British in one decisive victory at Norforlk, VA, and not in New York Harbor where Washington really wanted to fight them; Lafayette gets all the credit.)... so I figured, if I'm going to be in D.C. for Halloween, I am French, I should dress as a historical figure. So, I did -- with a three foot tall Marie-Antoinette looking white wig and all -- the all included an imitation scroll of the U.S. Constitution.
So, I walked around Adams Morgan looking like I was from the 18th century while holding a "copy" of the U.S. Constitution - it was pretty cool. People were waving at me, and I just gave them the most regal head nod I could muster up!
Funny thing - the Alliance Francaise gave me first prize at a costume party I went to, for being "Marie-Antoinette" ... I didn't have the heart to explain that I was really Mademoiselle Rochambeau.
Voila :)
I need to get a clear format for my blog don't I? Staying informed/ Voicing my Opinions / Taking Action and Personal/Other.
Next time people.
Until then, be well,
Veronique (Rochambeau)
I feel a little guilty for not blogging more regularly, and a bit perplexed that I have only told one person about my blog... my best friend from college, Victoria -- we have been supporting one another in "making our dreams come true" for years now. Her dream: getting published, Me: getting a democratic practice of open dialogue going.
So... I went the Jon Stewart/Stephen Colbert "Restore Sanity and/or Keep Fear Alive" rally(rallies) in Washington D.C. this past weekend. I took at bus from NYC at 8 a.m. on Saturday and was on The Mall by 2 p.m. The official count according to me is: hundreds of thousands of people - for the 10 minutes it took me to walk from the subway to the mall, I was walking against a current of people leaving the rally at least 10 people wide and then when I got the mall all I could see was people when I looked towards The Washington Monument and then in the opposite direction towards the Capitol. And, the ocean of people trying to get on subways headed back towards Virginia -- People, people, people were swarming the streets.
I made my way with one of my friends from middle school kind of sort of close to the front - I heard three or four words here and there, and could barely see the video screen.
I remember looking around and enjoying just people mostly being quiet and standing - not even talking to the people they were with. It made me feel reassured that I wasn't alone on an island - that maybe people would really want to have 'reasonable' conversations about the situations that are challenging our people and nation today?
As for the mid-term elections, it was bittersweet for me, as, I have not yet heard if I have be granted American citizenship -- and I live in CT -- it was a BIG voting opportunity with a senate seat up for grabs, the governorship (did you hear about Bridgeport not having enough ballots??? really??? my goodness) and my district congressman/woman position.
So, once again, I watched. I also chose to click the channel to another channel as often as possible whenever a political attack ad came on - didn't want any candidates thinking that I was counted in the "viewing" statistics that the cable/tv operator would be giving them. Funny thing, I probably only switched the channel 50% of the time because I would automatically zone out/tune out the ads and would realize it too late -- I am numb to the political ads. My brain totally stops processing what it is seeing/hearing.
As for staying informed: I'm watching the developments in Southern Sudan -- remember the "genocide in Darfur" does that ring a bell? It's okay if it doesn't... ask me.
I'm up and down these days. Exhausted from my job search.
I WON A HALLOWEEN COSTUME CONTEST IN DC!
Oh! I almost forgot -- the funnest thing that I did since I last blogged was dress up as Mademoiselle Rochambeau (the sister of the unsung American founding father - FRENCH General Rochambeau -- google him: he convinced George Washington to take on the British in one decisive victory at Norforlk, VA, and not in New York Harbor where Washington really wanted to fight them; Lafayette gets all the credit.)... so I figured, if I'm going to be in D.C. for Halloween, I am French, I should dress as a historical figure. So, I did -- with a three foot tall Marie-Antoinette looking white wig and all -- the all included an imitation scroll of the U.S. Constitution.
So, I walked around Adams Morgan looking like I was from the 18th century while holding a "copy" of the U.S. Constitution - it was pretty cool. People were waving at me, and I just gave them the most regal head nod I could muster up!
Funny thing - the Alliance Francaise gave me first prize at a costume party I went to, for being "Marie-Antoinette" ... I didn't have the heart to explain that I was really Mademoiselle Rochambeau.
Voila :)
I need to get a clear format for my blog don't I? Staying informed/ Voicing my Opinions / Taking Action and Personal/Other.
Next time people.
Until then, be well,
Veronique (Rochambeau)
Friday, October 22, 2010
"It Will Get Better" - please stick around - don't choose suicide
Hello People :)
I have been deeply saddened by the increase in suicides resulting from "bullying" - it seems that the recent deaths were taken by young people from elementary age to university aged because they couldn't take the harassment of being "gay" "homosexual" - LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) and felt that "not being here" with "us" anymore was a "better" place to be.
The other item related to suicide deaths that I randomly caught only a headline on my AOL account newsfeed was that for the first time death other than combat is the #1 reason for death in our armed forces. (I am not going to attach a source here) just as I couldn't if we were talking face to face. Suicides out number combat deaths now?
So the LGBT community has launched a new publicity campaign platform with the message "IT WILL GET BETTER."
And, I couldn't help but think that is a message we ALL could feel better hearing even if "we" (remember -- "Me and We is all we'll ever be -- reference in Post 1) aren't personally a member of the LGBT community.
And, same goes for the armed forces community - even if "we" aren't an actual member of "their" community - they are a part of "us" -- literally -- remember: The Country is called the U.S. (The "US" -the country of "us" -- NOTE: reference Post 1).
In this political season and all the "fighting" and "fight ads" hmmm... can I sit here and smile and think, "It will get better."
Actually, I can.
Why?
Because I'm blogging.
And -- that is something I have never done before (ok technically, maybe 4 posts) but that's is not "putting it out there" like this.
So.... hmmm... if I'm doing something I've never done before, maybe you will too...maybe "We" will.
And "It will get better" -- because this isn't as good as it gets.
So... please stick around with "us" a little while longer.
Hey, ya never know?
And... if you're not here with "us," you'll never know what "we" ended up doing that we have never done before.
Compassionately,
Veronique
I have been deeply saddened by the increase in suicides resulting from "bullying" - it seems that the recent deaths were taken by young people from elementary age to university aged because they couldn't take the harassment of being "gay" "homosexual" - LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) and felt that "not being here" with "us" anymore was a "better" place to be.
The other item related to suicide deaths that I randomly caught only a headline on my AOL account newsfeed was that for the first time death other than combat is the #1 reason for death in our armed forces. (I am not going to attach a source here) just as I couldn't if we were talking face to face. Suicides out number combat deaths now?
So the LGBT community has launched a new publicity campaign platform with the message "IT WILL GET BETTER."
And, I couldn't help but think that is a message we ALL could feel better hearing even if "we" (remember -- "Me and We is all we'll ever be -- reference in Post 1) aren't personally a member of the LGBT community.
And, same goes for the armed forces community - even if "we" aren't an actual member of "their" community - they are a part of "us" -- literally -- remember: The Country is called the U.S. (The "US" -the country of "us" -- NOTE: reference Post 1).
In this political season and all the "fighting" and "fight ads" hmmm... can I sit here and smile and think, "It will get better."
Actually, I can.
Why?
Because I'm blogging.
And -- that is something I have never done before (ok technically, maybe 4 posts) but that's is not "putting it out there" like this.
So.... hmmm... if I'm doing something I've never done before, maybe you will too...maybe "We" will.
And "It will get better" -- because this isn't as good as it gets.
So... please stick around with "us" a little while longer.
Hey, ya never know?
And... if you're not here with "us," you'll never know what "we" ended up doing that we have never done before.
Compassionately,
Veronique
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
The Washington rallies
Dear People -
Today, is as good a day as any to share how I feel about the various "rallies" that have and are going to take place in Washington D.C. Specifically, Glen Beck's "Restore Honor" rally and the soon-to-be Jon Stewart "Restoring Sanity" event.
Being a French citizen (oh, I haven't told you that yet. Well, I am, Born there, lived here most of my life, and am in the process of becoming a citizen; I am legal by the way)... the French take to the street ALL the time. There isn't a week when there isn't a "stop traffic" rally - usually organized by unions.
So, I'm used to rallies -- yet, I must say, this does not happen every day in America. So, I'm taking notice. And, people are coming from far away to support their position(s) - France is a lot smaller - so technically, less of a big deal to show up for a rally in Paris. (Just being geographically honest).
Now - as to whether or not I "agree" with the content and message of either rally is not something I'm going to blog about (I'm not that crazy), but I'd be willing to have a conversation :)
What I see, People, is a lot of people getting off their couches, and that, ultimately is a good thing.
I don't like it when I witness name calling and segregation based on ideologies... why? because "We ARE The People" -- what? some of us aren't American (okay, technically, I'm not - maybe that's why those three words have my complete attention at this moment in U.S. (us!!! - -we live in the country of "us" -- come on People!)
MY POINT ABOUT THE RALLIES IS THIS: WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE RALLIES?
Where are the truly democratic practices where citizens (and permanent residents like moi!) can go and figure things out? Express themselves, organize, and take action.
That's my life's passion - creating a democratic practice that lives and breathes in every community, like soccer practice. Getting a little soccer ball inside a big goal net, isn't easy, and neither is democracy!
I need democracy practice!!!
Don't you?
Until next time, yours in humor, passion, and ... French cheese,
Veronique
Today, is as good a day as any to share how I feel about the various "rallies" that have and are going to take place in Washington D.C. Specifically, Glen Beck's "Restore Honor" rally and the soon-to-be Jon Stewart "Restoring Sanity" event.
Being a French citizen (oh, I haven't told you that yet. Well, I am, Born there, lived here most of my life, and am in the process of becoming a citizen; I am legal by the way)... the French take to the street ALL the time. There isn't a week when there isn't a "stop traffic" rally - usually organized by unions.
So, I'm used to rallies -- yet, I must say, this does not happen every day in America. So, I'm taking notice. And, people are coming from far away to support their position(s) - France is a lot smaller - so technically, less of a big deal to show up for a rally in Paris. (Just being geographically honest).
Now - as to whether or not I "agree" with the content and message of either rally is not something I'm going to blog about (I'm not that crazy), but I'd be willing to have a conversation :)
What I see, People, is a lot of people getting off their couches, and that, ultimately is a good thing.
I don't like it when I witness name calling and segregation based on ideologies... why? because "We ARE The People" -- what? some of us aren't American (okay, technically, I'm not - maybe that's why those three words have my complete attention at this moment in U.S. (us!!! - -we live in the country of "us" -- come on People!)
MY POINT ABOUT THE RALLIES IS THIS: WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE RALLIES?
Where are the truly democratic practices where citizens (and permanent residents like moi!) can go and figure things out? Express themselves, organize, and take action.
That's my life's passion - creating a democratic practice that lives and breathes in every community, like soccer practice. Getting a little soccer ball inside a big goal net, isn't easy, and neither is democracy!
I need democracy practice!!!
Don't you?
Until next time, yours in humor, passion, and ... French cheese,
Veronique
Monday, October 11, 2010
Me and We is All We'll Ever Be...
Hello People -
We ARE The People - you, me and we.
Did you ever notice that the letter "W" is the letter "M" flipped over?
I'm sure my kindergarten teacher taught me that when I first learned how to write those letters.
That realization that there is "M" for "Me" in the "W" for "We" is what prompted my "editing" or "personalizing" of the first three words of the United States Constitution, "We The People..." to be
We ARE The People -- Imagine if the Constitution was worded with "Me, a part of The People" - which is really what is inferred -- there is Me in We.
I really believe that each and everyone of "us" needs to embrace that "We ARE The People" of "We The People" whether we agree or like one another or not. You are a part of my country - you are part of my "We."
I just turned 40 years old one month ago, and ya know what? It kind of makes me care a little less about what people think about me - all while making me care a lot more about "us" and where we're going as a People.
Will this be a "political blog" - eh, probably not. Though occasionally I may comment on political actions, policies and or politicians.
All of our words and actions are who we are. Whether I agree with you or not and vice versa.
Me and We is All We'll Ever Be.
Have courage.
Yours in action, what ever that may be for you,
Veronique
www.andactiononline.com - Script the 21st Century
We ARE The People - you, me and we.
Did you ever notice that the letter "W" is the letter "M" flipped over?
I'm sure my kindergarten teacher taught me that when I first learned how to write those letters.
That realization that there is "M" for "Me" in the "W" for "We" is what prompted my "editing" or "personalizing" of the first three words of the United States Constitution, "We The People..." to be
We ARE The People -- Imagine if the Constitution was worded with "Me, a part of The People" - which is really what is inferred -- there is Me in We.
I really believe that each and everyone of "us" needs to embrace that "We ARE The People" of "We The People" whether we agree or like one another or not. You are a part of my country - you are part of my "We."
I just turned 40 years old one month ago, and ya know what? It kind of makes me care a little less about what people think about me - all while making me care a lot more about "us" and where we're going as a People.
Will this be a "political blog" - eh, probably not. Though occasionally I may comment on political actions, policies and or politicians.
All of our words and actions are who we are. Whether I agree with you or not and vice versa.
Me and We is All We'll Ever Be.
Have courage.
Yours in action, what ever that may be for you,
Veronique
www.andactiononline.com - Script the 21st Century
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