Promoting political discussions: reaching out to Republicans, etc.

When we attend Kerry meet-ups, we tend to meet like-minded individuals who are already committed to voting for Kerry. It is difficult to find neutral ground, where Democrats can reach out to Republicans, etc. and explain the destructive impact of this administration's policies. I believe that if more people became aware of Bush's appalling legacy, they would be clamoring to join the political debate and discuss issues that will affect their future. Demanding accountability from our leaders, requires that citizens are not only involved but also knowledgeable about the issues affecting their lives.

To that end, I've been trying organize more forums where people can learn the facts and debate the possible public solutions. I've spoken to a librarian at the Broward County Library and they've tentatively agreed to host a political book discussion this October, where they would present current books with "liberal" as well as "conservative" viewpoints. I'm trying to make such an event nation-wide and encourage all libraries to declare October 2004 a "political awareness" month by presenting political book discussions. It would be wonderful, if bookstores, ie. "Borders", etc. and colleges nationwide would hold book discussions with a similar theme. These events could also serve as potential voter registration drives.

Below are links to Amazon.com of books that I've compiled.

Liberal:

Conservative:

The list of "conservative" books defending Bush's domestic policies tend to be slim; most books tend to describe his leadership style during the "war on terror". Molly Ivins' book, Bushwacked, on the other hand, skewers Bush's environmental policies, education policies, etc. and a rebuttal on those issues from the conservative section would offer a balanced discussion.

We may be able to reach/educate a wider audience, if during October, liberal authors would appear on shows such as Oprah, Randi Rhodes, etc. to debate Bush's policies with a conservative author (ie. Molly Ivins vs. Bill Sammon).

If you think a political discussion/debate hosted by your local library could draw voters from the other side, you could suggest the idea to your local librarian and if enough community members show interest, the library might actually go ahead and schedule such an event!!!

You may also want to write to your favorite t.v. and radio shows, as well as your local newspaper, and ask them to feature more political discussions where current authors of political books defend or detract Bush's policies. Use Congress.org to find media addresses.

Please pass on these ideas to as many people as you can. If you want to contact me, please post a message for Hanna7 @ the Broward County, Florida Kerry / Democratic meet-up boards.