The Present And The Future

  • Monday, October 18, 2021

All the “wokeness” movements and attempts to pitch one race against another has blinded many Americans from realizing some of the great accomplishments that have occurred in our society.
When we consider the prior societal problems pre-1970s, we have come a long way toward internal peace. When I consider the advances made by those who are Black and Hispanic, I realize that someone, or some group, has been living under a rock, or they intentionally attempt to divide us as a nation.

Prior to the 20th Century, women were unable to own property. In the late 20th Century, my wife, who is Hispanic, was told by a banker that it is was better for her husband to be on a land deed, even though she was a disabled veteran after four years of honorable service. She experienced the same problem with the purchasing of an automobile as well. How many women out here experienced this in the last century? It was not until August, 1920, when the 19th Amendment was ratified, that women were permitted the right to vote; 55 years after African and African American slaves were freed. Unfortunately, African American, Asian American, Hispanic American, and Native American women were excluded from the 19th Amendment, and they could not vote until the passing of the Equal Rights Amendment. Notwithstanding the 15th Amendment, from 1920 to 1971, women who were Native American, and Asian American were granted piecemeal voting rights.

Today, we see members of Congress who are multicultural and women. Another mere example is when we see individuals, such as General Colin Powel (African American), Dr. Joxel Garcia (Hispanic), as an assistant secretary of Health & Human Services, and local individuals who are Black and Hispanic and excelling in their field as recently presented on Page 2 of the Business section of the Sunday Edition of the Times Free Press. This is a small example of how far we have come from 1971 to present.

We build a better future through our children. We teach our children to judge others by their character, have tolerance for differences that others bring to the community, and embrace the edicts of our U.S. Constitution. We should appreciate each other for what we can share and do for one another to make America a better place to raise our children, grandchildren, and future family members.

Yes, we have come a long way. We continue to make progress and my suggestion is that we do not look back, rather, move fast and work hard toward the future to make our lives, as Americans, better. We do this by being unified as Americans and opposed those who attempt to divide us. The seven red stripes on our flag symbolize our unity, courage, and strength. Those who oppose our way of life oppose all Americans. United we stand, divided we fall. We need to stand united!

Don Gala, Ph.D.
Disabled Veteran, Retired Public Servant

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