Barrack Obama Propaganda in our Public Schools
63
I’m not into politics, I must admit. Perhaps, for my kids’ sake, I should be more attuned to what’s going on, but I lack the time and, well, interest. It’s often when things are brought to light by others that I decide to learn more on the certain subject matters. This issue was brought to my attention by the mother (and fellow breast cancer survivor) of a very close friend of mine. She was raised in Cuba as a little girl, until the age of 17, and experienced Fidel Castro’s coming into leadership of Cuba. She is very passionate about her feelings about what became of Cuba under Castro and how the ways of Obama remind her of the ways of Castro. She felt compelled to write down what happened, as she remembers it, when Castro became president and why what is scheduled to happen here, in the United States, on September 8th, 2009 is so significant to her. It should be significant, in one way or another, to anyone who has children in our public schools.
Taxpayers dollars are being used to spread President Obama's socialist ideology – the fact that school children across our nation will be forced to watch the president justify his plans not only goes against the beliefs of a great majority in the United States, but it is an abuse of power, as it allows him to bypass the childrens’ parents. That's not okay.
My kids are not yet in school, but if they were, I would be keeping them home on September 8th.
This is what she wrote:
Many people always ask why the Cuban people have not overthrown Castro and his government...
Well it started in such sneaky ways to undermine their freedoms that by the time everyone realized what was happening, it was too late to stop the snowball effect.
One of these events was when Castro had a special speech to all the students and young people across the country. He told them just how important they were to their country and the need to get an education. He also promised that all children would have an opportunity to study and get ahead. He told them to trust him and not to listen to negative feedback.
Then the teachers were told that they needed to go over different parts of the speech and further explain to the children what they could do to make sure that the president's message was adhered to. First graders were told that this man that they just heard (most schools then did not have TVs, so they listened on the radio) was the top person and the leader of the country. That he was a very important person just like their parents etc. The teachers then asked 6 and 7 year olds if they liked the way Fidel spoke - of course the kids say "yes", what kid would not? Then they asked if they thought he was telling the truth and other things. They then asked the children to go home and ask their parents what they thought of Fidel.
And yes, the next day in class little kids were asked how their mother/father reacted when they asked how they felt about Fidel. Little kids would say....”My Daddy made a funny face”....”My Mother said that we don't talk about him in this house”, etc.
And, yes, the teacher made notes and passed them on. I can go on and on, but over a period of only 3 years, all the kids thought Fidel was God and they told their parents that Fidel was right and they were not.
 | Amazon Price: $14.49 |
 | Amazon Price: $9.58 List Price: $18.95 |
 | Amazon Price: $0.00 |
 | Amazon Price: $12.80 List Price: $20.95 |
 | Amazon Price: $6.00 List Price: $22.00 |
 | Amazon Price: $2.85 List Price: $11.95 |
As time went by, people stopped expressing opinions, stopped being communicative, stopped asking questions or giving suggestions so that they could just be left alone. At the dinner table little kids were lied to as to what they were eating so as not to let on that maybe Dad had managed to get a chicken on the black market.
Years went by and those little children were selected for what career they would go into depending on their parents’ involvement with the "system"; brightness or smarts had nothing to do with progressing. Children of parents who were seen as negative were sent off away from home to other parts of the country or out of the country. Parents could not object to the "country's education mission."
Pay very close attention on September the 8th, 2009. Obama will be addressing the children of this nation in public schools. To little children he will look to be a "good guy" since it is shown in the classroom. Children will listen because in school they "must pay attention." They will have follow-up sessions with their teacher as to this so called "stay in school speech" - sounds good so far right?
When this child goes home and talks with his parents, his parents may just say “OK” but there will be many parents that will say “…he may be our President, but in this country we are your parents and he should be addressing us, not you.” That child will be confused…
UNTIL THE NEXT SPEECH, AND THE NEXT ONE...
I lived this one. I saw it unfold. This is wrong. One thing is for him to say "stay in school" with a short message and no follow-up by the classroom, but to have a mandatory speech to all public school children is wrong. Let him address Universities, where the mind has maturity to sort out things and evaluate - not our young children.
This is neither a Democratic nor Republican issue. By parents letting this happen, they open the door for other things to be taught to our children. Our differences are what make this country strong. Leaders are formed due to their different thought processes. Not being molded is critical to the continuation of the freedoms that we all enjoy.
Remember that your opinion of what you are thinking of what I just wrote is yours to say to anybody right now. That can easily disappear............careful with the children.......they are so easily used.
Make sure you understand exactly what the children are being taught with this speech; don't be fooled by the "stay in school" title....
Stay free...
(reprinted with permission of the original author)
Should Obama address kids in public schools?
See results without votingCommentsLoading...
Thanks for the comment Patrice52. I'm not paranoid. I'm not an Obama supporter, obviously. I don't think he's going to declare himself a dictator. I would just appreciate it if he would focus on speaking to those mature enough to understand and make up their own minds. They say he's only going to urge students to stay in school, but he is also supposedly presenting follow up discussion topics and challenges to the kids - that's simply not his place. I can stress to my own children to stay in school, and if I've done a good enough job raising them, they will have enough respect for me that they'll listen. I respect him as president. I do not respect what he's doing.
I'm sure you are a good mother and your children are fortunate. However, not all children are so lucky. I see no harm in other children getting the encouragement they might miss at home by our President. I have no young children now, but will make an effort to see this video if possible. However, I still do not believe any follow up discussion and challenges for kids is politically motivated. I'm an independent, but did not care for President Bush. That said, I would not have kept my child out of school if he were speaking there. And even though I HIGHLY disapproved of the "torture" interrogations during his administration, I would have never referred to him as a communist. I do believe this president deserves at least that much respect also.
Patrice52 I agree with Lily Rose. I also feel that Obama is trying to subvert parents. I teach school, and WE give kids encouragement and try to show the importance of education. I agree that BO has an impressive life story. However, it was the policies of our nation as well as his own work that aided his successes. He has done quite well for himself. It is sad that his father was not involved in raising him. I'm sorry he had to receive a scholarship that was for non-citizens while attending college. I'm sorry he feels the need for government to control as many aspects of our life as possible. I DO NOT want my daughter exposed to only his views. She is 11 and I have told her if she truly wanted to watch I would let her. Thankfully, she doesn't want to see it.
Patrice52 - I don't recall saying anyone was a communist, comparing one's "ways" is not the same; please don;t put words in my mouth.
SheriSapp - Thank you for the comment. My sentiments exactly!
Many of his czars, his mentors, his friends, his parents—were avowed Marxists. His teacher, Saul Alinsky, teaches how to fool people like Patrice. It's like ether. I agree with you. And this is a fine article. Naturally, no one could get elected if he openly declared himself a Marxist. Fidel didn't either. He promised democracy.
This was news to me as I don't live in the US. Very very interesting. Nice article that raises a lot of questions.
Thanks James. Those are some facts I didn't even know, but definitely strengthen my feelings. Thanks for reading.
I didn't mean to put words in your mouth, but whenever I hear someone compared to the pope, I assume that that person is a good religious person and whenever I hear someone compared to a dictator, I also assume that person has communistic beliefs, or might secretly be a communist. I also believe all this comparison to dictators that President Obama is receiving is getting a lot of people riled up, almost to the point of a mob mentality, even though they haven't checked out the facts. (I do note the Marxism and Fidel references in a previous comment) This is something I have never seen occur with any of our other presidents. Quite frankly when I hear people talk like this (not referring to you), full of rage, while they're stating that they are SOOO scared, I also find myself scared. However, my fear is not of President Obama and any ideas he might want to implement, but rather of the mob mentality that seems to be taking over a growing portion of our country.
Very interesting hub and comments.
Patrice, sorry if you are getting scared for the wrong reason. Fear in this case is definitely warrented, but your fear of the dissent is the wrong way to direct it. If you love our way of life and don't want any MORE government infringement on our freedoms, you should realize this administration is the one to truly be feared.
SheriSapp, I'm not at all afraid of this administration, and I am not aware of any freedoms that I have lost, nor do I expect any. If, like most people you are riled up about the public health care option, then we are talking about the big insurance companies losing the freedom to gouge the American people. Sorry, but I can't sympathize with them. With their profits having went up l000% in the last five years, had they controlled their greed even a little bit, we wouldn't be having this discussion about a public health care option anyway.
Bottom line, many people do not have health care coverage becuase it is simply not a high enough priority for them. I spent 4 years in college so I could get a career that will also come with some insurance benefits. It would have been much more fun to party and say my future be damned. I made the tough choices and I resent being asked to take care of those who never bother to take care of themselves.
I really did not wanted to get into a debate about this subject because I believe that the majority of us agreed with lily-Rose...but Patrice, now being a member of the minority (BO supporters) needs a little tap on her shoulders to make her aware that what she hears on the news is not really what they say it is. This administration has an agenda of 'change' and just for the sake of change is doing things that were never done before, even if they don't work (ei.: stimulus packages, health care, Guantanamo...) But lets stay with the subject on hand, I think any common sense American will agree that the only time we expect our president to make mass school TV speech, is to unite every one after a major disaster happened or an attack to the USA by foreign forces, or perhaps a health epidemic.... not to tell our children 'stay in school, it is good for you'. Most definitely that the job of parents, not of governments, but since our 'family-unit' doesn't seem to exist anymore, parents are faulting on their duties and that is exactly were government should jump in.
DO NOT encourage single parenthood, DO NOT encourage same sex marriage, DO NOT encourage welfare support...
I'll stop here because I'm going too long and Patrice is probably watching MSNBC.
**ATTENTION: Just for the fun of it - and because I've never used it before - I've added a poll at the bottom of the article - go cast your votes!
@ Hugonator, thanks for the comments. Great bantor going on here. I'm a little confused about you comment referring to the Gov't stepping in when parents are faulting due to the family unit no longer existing - are you saying it's okay for THOSE kids to listen to his speech? Oh, or are you saying that, in general, the Gov't should step in and help or encourage families to be a "unit"?
Before democracy, whenever anyone wanted to "take over" they built a big enough army and just did it (if they could) and everybody accepted it, because they had no choice. However, with the advent of democracy, the only way to "take over" is to convince people bit by bit to relinquish their freedoms bit by bit. And that is exactly what is happening right now. There are those who see this for what it is and there are those who don't. The comments here, and on the forums, show exactly who sees what.
Excellent hub Lily Rose. It was fascinating to read what happened in Cuba. A similar thing happened in pre-WWII Germany, in that some saw what was happening and tried to warn those who didn't. The rest as they say, is history!
Thank you, Madame X. You said it well - bit by bit. I, too, found her story fascinating and that's really what compelled me to publish this. She experienced it FIRST HAND - getting a true account doesn't get better than that.
What happened in Cuba and in Germany is now happening also in Venezuela... It also is the way N. Korea and China run their school system..... It did not happen overnight... It is interesting to see the remarks of those that think this is "silly" and cannot happen here due to checks and balances....
Same remarks about this same subject were made in Germany, Cuba and now in Venezuela..... people said it could never happen in their country....but it is happening there.... Talking to the children is one thing, having a planned lesson for ALL children to participate in is "sneaky" at its best... Now they are scrambling to change everything....... Thank goodness for these blogs so people will know what is going on..... All Presidents talked to the children... without planned lessons trying to gear their thinking ..... By the way...Obama asked that we leave his children alone..... I think he needs to do as he says....and leave our children alone. He needs to dump who ever is advising him....
SheriSapp, I'm so glad you were fortunate enough to work hard and get that good education. However, some people are not that fortunate. If you have had an IQ of 80 or 90, would you have been able to accomplish what you have. Or if you had to take care of your family instead of pursuing a higher education, could you have reached your goals. Yes I agree, some people don't put health insurance as a high enough priority. However, if they didn't have the same opportunity to achieve that you had, are you aware that private insurance has become too high for the average person to purchase, or that if you develop a serious disease while you have that insurance, the insurance company will raise your rates so high that you are forced to drop off their rolls? It's all part of their 1000% increase in profits over the last five years.
Lily,
All I can say is you stated at the beginning you really have not taken the time to investigate politics much on your own. If you listen to James who actually thinks Obama and his associates are out to re-educate the masses, then I really worry for you. I know this may sound preachy, but Obama is actually very moderate if you would check out some of his real policies and read his memoir. I read the lesson plan before it was revised, and there was nothing of concern in it. It was just sort of a not so good lesson plan, which you can find in any teacher text book actually. People have misconstrued his words, and I am glad I have not falling for the propaganda as many of you are.
Hi SweetiePie. No, I'm not very well-spoken when it comes to politics and I, as well as many here and everywhere, could stand to learn more, but I'm not so gullible that I would think Obama is a Marxist just because someone tells me he is (no offense, James) or form any strong opinions solely from a comment someone left here or anywhere. What I know for sure is that Obama should leave my children alone - focus on the people old enough to matter now. Merriam-Webster defines propaganda as: 'the spreading of ideas, information, or rumor for the purpose of helping or injuring an institution, a cause, or a person & ideas, facts, or allegations spread deliberately to further one's cause or to damage an opposing cause: a public action having such an effect' - I think you may be one of the few here that IS falling for his propaganda - I most certainly am NOT.
Lily Rose--we have got to stick together on this. Frankly I find it both amazing and shocking that someone, such as Sweetie Pie could read the propagandist script and find "nothing wrong with it". I think that shows why the rest of us must speak up. Some people truly do think what they are told to.
Patrice-I realize that my upbringing was pretty fortunate. But many of my friends did not have the same good fortune. I did attend public school for most of my years, and I attended and graduated from a state college. I know from what I see as a teacher, that we have many damaged and needy children out there. I have no problem with helping kids, but sometimes the best thing (if it were possible) would be to remove these kids from these toxic homes. My parents always stressed the importance of education. Too many parents of today just don't bother to parent.
I'm sticking with you SheriSapp, and not because you're telling me to (he he)!
Sweetie Pie is SOOO under the ETHER. Obama had the most far left voting record of all 100 Senators. It's a fact. Dispute the facts instead of attacking people. How in the hell can somebody the farthest to the left of 100 Senators be in the center. I hate to say it but this is Horses**t.
James,
You just attacked me. Obama has dropped single payer health care and maybe even the public option will go under because of his desire to be more moderate. The liberals are dead set against it. Look at my nice words and your attacking tone. Sorry to use you as an example, but you are mean sometimes and you need to be called on it!
Also Lily, everything people write that is political is propaganda. Your opinions are, and so are mine.
If you claim you don't know much about politics and that you are non-partisan, then don't claim that Obama has a "socialist agenda." The fact that you are able to write this article is proof that we are anything but oppressed. The meeting is optional. If people don't want to go, don't go. It's irresponsible to take admittedly limited knowledge of Obama's political agenda and compare it to Castro's, because despite its sensationalist appeal, it is FALSE.
Have you seen the Menu of Classroom Activities for Pre-K to 6th graders that was prepared to go along with this speech? What is the president trying to tell me? What does the president want me to do? What is he asking me to do? I can't imagine my pre-k daughter listening to anybody for 15-20 minutes and then remember anything afterwards to "dictate" what to write on her behalf about Obama. What she would always remember would be his face and know that when he speaks she must be quiet and listen or get in trouble with the teacher. This is brainwashing - set the tone, focus the mind on something long enough and then condition the mind to respond a certain way every time that face appears.
Lily and James, don't worry--this too shall pass. Too many people are too willing and eager to believe anything that they are told by the leaders and the media that they control. Thinking people are free to find facts out for themselves. The left doesn't want to bother when the press is alwaysputting out their propaganda to start with. Barry's voting record is public record, and it was WAY left. Bush had and still has the disdain of the press ands the left because he DIDN'T apologize for being a proud American and doing what he could to keep us safe.
Lily Rose,
Excellent Hub. It was really fascinating to read the story of a young child's experience under Castro. Obama's speech is improper because it really is about him, not the kids. When schools are encouraged to tell children to read all about the President before his speech, I have to question his motives in speaking. We have good reason to worry. The President has surrounded himself with left-wing radicals, ala Van Jones, and frankly this is just the tip of the iceberg. It's sad that so many people prefer to turn a deaf ear and a blind eye to the truth.
I had to read about many presidents while I was in school, including their histories, including some then current ones. I believe it was in Social Studies. I never did question why...maybe I should have.
LilyRose, As an American citizen you have the right to say whatever you want. You even preface your argument by stating that you don't follow politics or read the background information. Ok, too.
The president of the United States has every right to address the American people -- including students in public school.
His message of stay in school and continue to learn and get educated is much needed. Our school systems are failing our kids. Your argument that Obama should be addressing college students because they are more mature -- if America doesn't shape up its elementary and high schools and educate our younger citizens there won't BE college students. If we don't motivate kids to value their education then we are dooming them to ignorance and low-paying, dead-end jobs.
Education is a priority issue not only for Obama, but Mrs. Laura Bush. Perhaps you have seen her on TV.
You say you are not falling for Obama's "propaganda." And yet, you seem to have fallen right into the paranoic propaganda trap of a few right wing reactionaries.
BTW, the whole idea behind the lesson plan and post-address discussions is so that students can learn critical thinking -- which is the anethema of brainwashing/totalitarian government. Obama WANTS our citizens to be able to think for themselves. It's not really a hard concept.
George Bush was talking to grade school children when 9/11 happened. He was reading 'My Pet Goat' to them.
It's not like Obama is the first President to talk to school kids. When I was a kid we would have been thrilled to have a President talk to us.
I don't see a thing wrong with it.
Oh Pam, that's not the same thing at all. He was in one classroom (in Florida, a state run by his brother Jeb). There is no 'hidden agenda' in the book My Pet Goat (....or IS there???). Besides, we all know that only Marxist dictators engage in propaganda with the youth of their nation.
When I was a kid (and you, too) we DID have a president talk to us, John F. Kennedy. He rallied our country to service. No less a cult figure or personality than Obama, the difference is in those days there was only print, radio and TV. No viral (and I mean that in the illness sense) media where anybody and everbody can say whatever they want on blogs and get those so inclined whipped up into a frenzy of fear.
Gotta wonder -- what will they think of next?
SweetiePie—I didn't think "under the ether" was a personal attack. I thought it meant forgive them Father for they know not what they do. I was making an excuse for your views—not attacking you. Man. Sensitive, aren't we.
Lily Rose—Sorry for using your Hub comments to make that statement. You've got an interesting thing going here. I'll bow out and yet you handle it. :)
But, but, James, I need you!
I was very touched by a friend's story of her childhood experiences and felt compelled to publish it. I'm no political activist, but I know how I feel. I've expressed it. What more can I say. I'm touched that so many people have read my page and felt compelled to comment and they are all great comments, whether I agree with them or not - thanks to all who have visited.
All I can say to them is "We tried to warn you"
I was just wondering. How do all of you who find fault with this HUB feel about President Obama including self avowed communists and left-wing radicals in his administration? Are you troubled by President Obama's association and allegiance to Rev. Wright, a man who proudly said "God damn America."?
Amen, Mighty Mom
Breakfastpop -- I felt a lot more concerned about the neocon, chicken hawk cabinet members Bush surrounded himself with than I do about Obama's choices.
Every president ends up with administration choices who end up on the cutting room floor. Whether through their own stupidity or targeted campaigns from the "other side" there's always fallout and even sacrificial lambs (Colin Powell sure had to take a big one for the team, didn't he?).
As to Rev. Wright, I was under the impression that Obama had to sever his ties to the reverend. If you want to get into some of the wacky stuff said by religious leaders of the religious right -- we certainly can. How about the guy who sent his congregation email messages that Mitt Romney is Satan?
Lily Rose,
Excellent hub on Obama's propaganda.
Thanks, keep trucking.
A testimony to the dangers of ignorance.
Good way to slam Christianity Mighty Mom. We are smart enough to know that if you look hard enough there are wack jobs in every group. The point was that most preachers don't use words like GD from the pulpit. This Rev. Wright was SPEWING anti-American crap. I DO think it matters that our president spent 20 years listening to this man's rants.
Isn't it pretty hypocritical and maybe bigoted to think it perfectly acceptable that George Bush and Ronald Reagan both gave speeches to school children, but then to go into a frenzy when President Obama intends to do the same thing? As a teacher, one might be thrilled to have such an example as President Obama taking the time to encourage one's students to take school seriously and strive to reach their full potential. Even Newt Gingrich thinks it's a good idea.
I have to admit, I have never heard of any other preacher saying GD from the pulpit, either. Not to mention GD our nation with our future president sitting in front of him. I see the avowed Communist quit—but blamed it on "lies" in the press. This is the gall of Marxists. They say live video tape of themselves speaking is "lies." That really takes some Chutzpa.
Love your name, first off!! On to the article. Thank you!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! More people need to read this!!!! I could not believe it when my daughter came home from school, and told me that Obama was great and should be President. She was in kindergarten at the time!!! I asked her where that idea came from, seeing that her father and I are both conservatives (though with different party affiliations). She told me that her teacher had taught her that. I was appalled!!! I wanted to run down to the school, grab her teacher by the hair and scream at her. How dare she push her political beliefs down my daughter's throat!! What right does she have?
Sorry, had to vent a little there. Thank you also for including the story showing the similarities between Castro's rise to power, and the election of our own Castro, Obama.
I don't think that there is anything wrong with obama addressing the students at a public school. I think many people still don't like obama .
@ Anna Marie - no, thank you! Now THAT is what I'm talking about! Vent all you want - we need to protect our children's minds from being brainwashed! I wish you would have gone down to the school and gave her a piece of your mind! That's just NOT OKAY!
@ Vizey - wake up! Duh! This is just a little bit of proof that, yes, many people still don't like Obama - and never will! Sorry, don't mean to be harsh...
Thank God we have places like this where we are still free to vent our voices and opinions. Let's hope enough people are heard so MAYBE the administration will understand that we are all not mindless fools being led to slaughter.
After reading an advance copy of the speech, I do not see anything offensive. He is campaigning, which is what he does best. While he says he is working hard to get children the necessary tools to learn, how much of the stimulus money went to public schools? School improvement programs $650,000,000. Innovation and improvement of elementary and secondary schools $200,000,000. $850,000,000 seems like a big number but, there are 98,793 public schools (K-12). That's $8,604.00 per school or $17.25 per student (49,299,000 total enrollment in K-12 public schools per edreform.com). Good thing we bailed out the automotive and banking industries, it shows what's really important to Washington.
This worries me more and more. I don't listen to the news, although I will watch it, because of how it doesn't always tell the full story. Looking at the decisions that are being made, how our President acts, I am terrified at what is happening. It amazes me at how someone that is suppose to be talking to our children about staying in school will ride his skateboard down the halls of the white house, or ride his bike without his helmet. He is in a leadership position, the highest in our country, and he acts like he's in high school or college rather than a professional. What gives him the right to speak to our children if he already hasn't been a good example?
Oh and to make it known. If Reagan had done this (and he's a President I like), I would still be extremely upset. This is not the right of our President to go above the parents. WE should decide what our children hear or are taught. Political beliefs need to stay out of school and kids should be taught the facts and only the facts.
Hello all, especially Patrice, Vizey, Egiv, Things Considered and others...
What a wonderful place to express your opinions.
BTW, I am the person who sent to LilyRose the true events -not story_ of my experience in Cuba with Fidel's first speech to students. Like some of you, no one thought twice about Fidel talking to the students, after all he had liberated us from another dictator- Batista. It was common in the late 40's, 50's and 60's to have one dictator throw another one out of power in many countries....Remember in those years the Mafia controlled a huge portion of the US politics....they also had a lot of influence in other countries politics. Civil rights passed in 1964...not too long ago.. The reason I bring this up is that in Cuba, the education, life style and social structure mirrored very much that of the USA during those years. However we did not have blacks riding at the back of a bus, they had great schools that whites could not attend, so did the Chinese, Muslims, and other faiths, races, etc.... Cuba had a very strong economy, people of both the USA and Cuba came and went between both countries with only a plane or boat ticket.
In the beginning people were mainly OK with Castro, and they took a "wait and see" as we all do... Then as I said slowly but surely things changed without us understanding how it ever happened...
Patrice... you stated That is precisely why there are some many levels of government and so many elected officials. ANY president who declared himself dictator of the United States would be impeached in a heart beat.
If you believe that Obama or any other person would actually openly declare himself a dictator, you really need to wake up. That is the problem, you have no idea what has happened until it is too late. Also have you checked into Obama's Czars? One just quit that openly declared himself a Communist! Read about the others...don't listen to me....check it out...Talk about levels of government. The Czars were appointed so that Congress would not have to approve their jobs...those "czars' could and will impact the positions-activities-direction of the jobs that Congress did approve.
VIZEY.. There are many who voted for Obama that are raising eyebrows at this so called addressing the children. Actually as you may know Reagan, Clinton, Bush and many addressed the children in one way or another but always verbally with not "lesson plans" to engrave the speech-with a face- into our children's minds. Fidel was great at that...so were many other leaders that got the children to 'follow" the person regardless eventually of the message.
THINGS CONSIDERED You are right others gave speeches...that is not the issue. It is the lesson plans. Clinton, Bush, Reagan etc gave speeches, almost same tone but did not have all this "follow up". All these plans and the speech were in the making for many weeks and no one was aware until someone blew the whistle. Take a look at the plans for the PreK (yes 4 and 5 year olds) thru 6th grade and the ones for 7th thru 12th grade which by the way mention another speech may be possible. It does not seem strange to you that this was going to be crammed (lessons) into every public student's mind with only a few hours notice to their parents and the public? The intent was to have the announcement made on Labor day to the public about the speech to be given on the next day early at school.
www.ed.gov/teachers/how/lessons/prek-6.pdf
www.ed.gov/teachers/how/lessons/7-12.pdf
EGIV You wrote: It's irresponsible to take admittedly limited knowledge of Obama's political agenda and compare it to Castro's, because despite its sensationalist appeal, it is FALSE. On the contrary, I would be extremely irresponsible to not bring this to anyone and every body's attention that I can. I would defend the USA Constitution with my life. My freedom of speech is the most powerful way to share what I know NOT TO BE FALSE! When a medical physician attempts to diagnose a patient, he/she will compare symptoms that they have previously seen and will eventually lead to a diagnosis. Hopefully the symptoms are in their early stages and treatment is possible. I am not a physician, but I see the exact symptoms showing up in this administration -no matter who is President-I would feel the same-that over several years invaded the Cuban people's rights... the children all knew who Castro was, they listened to him many times and eventually he became their mentor, leader and parents had no say....
My uncle, a very mellow, loving person, who in the summer months had a summer camp for underprivileged children, also taught English at La Salle high school in Havana. All the schools were told that their lessons must include as to how the government works, what each family had to do and every classroom had to incorporate it in their lessons, math classes, literature, gym, English, French, etc... when my uncle asked what does that have to do with learning a foreign language, he was removed from the school. For three days no one knew where he was...My Mother and Aunt were told where he was and go to pick him up...They knocked on a side door at the prison, to have my tortured, dead uncle's body pushed out the door. BTW with a note..this is what happens to those who question what the government tells them to do. We never thought this could happen in the 60's...
True this is a far cry from here....today... But easy to happen in other ways if are not vigilant about what our children are exposed to. I also want to say that it is very wrong for teachers to express their opinion as to liking or not the President etc....
Check out the lesson plans as if you were that 4 - 6 year old or a sophomore in high school. Reverse the President who was doing this...would you support it if it was Bush? I wouldn't! Do you really believe that 4 to 7 year olds understand the speech? But they will remember the face! and for the President to use the word "stupid' is really mind boggling. This is a word that offends people. So no matter the way it is used it really has no place in a Presidential address especially to children. Obama, leave my children and grandchildren alone. The ultimate responsibility of the rearing of children is that of their parents and family. As Obama states in his speech..his mother awoke at 4AM to give him classes...now there was a smart woman-she didn't depend on the school system no matter where she was. His speech should be given to parents as to what they need to do to support their children.
In additon to this issue, there are many other similarities of a Marxist agenda... I hope to God that I am so wrong. But just like a Cancer (and I have been there also as Lily Rose knows) it silently spreads until one of the symptoms surfaces enough to get one's attention.... and if ignored it rules.
Stay free!!
MAP - How fitting that your comment is #50! Very well said. I thank you for your allowing me to publish your experience. I'm so sorry you had to be one of the many that went through it and still do. I only hope we made some people more aware and maybe made some think...
If we don't wake up to what is going on around us, we are all going to lose our children to the media and to our own governments. We should all be instrumental in educating our children, but so many of us work and can't seem to spend the necessary time it takes to do effectively. We all must find a way, instead of having the media raise our children for us. One day our own children are going to be turning us in, albeit inadvertently because we disagree with the President if we're not careful: London's Iron Heel and Orwell's 1984 should be re-read and NOT taken for granted. Their nightmares are finally coming true.
Just imagine for a second: If we were right now in a communist country, real communist country and submitted such topic for a public discussion, were would we find ourselves in 24 hours??? He, he, he... just could not help it,sorry.
Simply put, he is in charge of the public education system in America. If you don't think this president or any president should speak at a public school, your kid should go to a private school.
Ronald Reagan and G.H.W. Bush also did the same thing. Reagan's talk was very political. I found nothing remotely political in Obama's address to school kids. I welcome it as a great way to get kids involved in their own education.
As for parents being subverted, well, maybe some parents might feel that way, but as a former teacher I can tell you that many parents just don't care. those that do should welcome assistance from any good source, and what better source than the president of the United States?
Socialist agenda? PAH-LEESE!
One thing I don't understand is why so many people are responding to this matter without realizing that the speech itself is not the issue, but the follow up directions that come after.
Map: wonderful writing. I am not paranoid, and I am a democrat, but I will watch and see, not blindly believe.
My kids and my country are too important to me.
Thanks for the posting Lily Rose.
-sigh- what have we all come to? what are we forced to believe? no one here is really thinking at all...what have we all come to? what are we forced to believe?
I wouldn't consider telling kids they should work in school and graduate as a socialist agenda. Far too many kids don't have anyone telling them this, or not in a way they can hear it. Does this mean kids in a democratic society shouldn't work hard or excell? I think we're searching for the boogeyman here.
Apparently, the writer of this hub did not watch the speech. Obama didn't mention any of the issues that he is working on. The entire speech was about getting children to take responsibility of their own education so that they can help create a brighter future for themselves and America. Also, I'd like to point out that everyone in America, including the president, has the right of free speech; and particularly the president who is the chief executive of the federal government which supplies billions of dollars to our public school systems. And seeing as how other presidents have done the same thing without receiving the same criticism I am led to believe that the controversy is really about Obama himself. Or possibly even about his race. I am disappointed at the ignorance of some of the American people and would hope eventually that they would learn to do their research before making any assumptions or accusations.
@ svencill: In case you didn't notice, this hub was written days before the speech - with the knowledge that had been presented to we, the people, by the White House and Department of Education as to what the content would be. I knew it would only be a matter of time before someone would be so ignorant as to drop the "race" comment - I'm not even going to justify that with an argument except to say PUULEESE! Another thing you may not have noticed is that the majority of the main body of the article was not written by me - I clearly stated that I felt compelled to publish a letter that I received from a friend. She LIVED what she wrote and did not have to do any research to that effect!
So his speech didn't include the initial follow-up and assignments that the released "Menu" had indicated it would - perhaps because enough of us were up in arms about it and he, or someone, realized it would be a stupid thing to do. No, just saying stay in school because it's the best thing you can do for your future is not in and of itself a bad thing. More kids need to hear it and it should come from their parents. Yes, there are a lot of shitty parents who just don't care and will never try and give their child what they themselves never had - THEY are who the president needs to be addressing. Put the pressure on the shitty parents to step up and raise their children. That's all I'm saying ..... for now.
Oh, by the way, thanks for pointing out the freedom of speech thing - because that wasn't completely clear to me.
President Obama is doing a great job. His address to kids was right on the money. Kids need a positive role model. Obama is one of many, but he is the president, and maybe that makes him the top one for many kids.
My daughter had the option, from her dad and me, to watch if she wanted. She is 11 and in 6th grade. My husband did type an exemption note that we told her she could use if she wanted. She did see the speech at her school on Thursday 9-10-09. When we were in the car driving home she casually mentioned that she had seen it that day. She knows how vigorously her dad and I disapprove of this current administration. I asked what she thought. She said "Well, he told us we can't all be (some type of sports star or celebrity so) famous, and we should stay in school and work hard." Then she said "Yeah, he really crushed my dreams." I told her that I know what the basic idea of the speech was, but I also told her that I don't believe the speech he gave was the one he had originally intended. He knew we were all paying attention. Anyway, though I don't support BO, I let my daughter decide for herself.
Sheri - you're right, I absolutely do not think he gave the speech that was initially intended, or at least the last part including the questions and assignments, etc, was left out. Smart choice. You did good with your daughter; at her age she can be somewhat objective. Thanks for the comment.
Lily Rose, I have to agree with James- you were handling the comments very well!
A lot was said already about this event. I just wanted to mention that I can relate to everything your friend wrote about her experience in Cuba, especially to episodes with teachers' manipulations in class rooms. I belonged to forth generation of socialist country (USSR). My great-grandparents (first generation) were either eliminated physically or converted (by the fear about well-being of their families), second and third generation (grandparents and parents) were either very careful (like my mother, who was in silent opposition), or brainwashed (like my dad, a soviet military officer). Since I didn't know my dad and was raised by my maternal part of the family, I was careful too to keep my mouth shut.
What I want to say is- if the first generation surrender, there's no hope for next generations, unless the system will ruin itself.... I don't want to put a blame on "first generation", it was too much to bear.
I think (I am not sure, it should be checked), Vladimir Lenin said- give me a child before age six and I will make a communist for life from him.
Oh, by the way, a lot of people were very happy and welcomed that socialist revolution of 1917. They didn't know what they were doing....they were sincere.
A little disclaimer to those who tend to see some meaning where there was no- I am not campaigning against or for Dems or Conservs. LOL.
ReuVera,
Where were you a week ago?!? I am both glad and sad that you can relate. I'm sorry your family had to experience the difficulties that they did. I wish the "haters" here (not Obama haters, haters of my/our opinion) would come back and read your comment. Some people just don't understand the point I tried to make. Well, to each his own, right? Thank you for taking the time to read my article.
I know, Lily Rose, I should've been here earlier. Too busy with real life, I suppose.
Also, I was trying to put some meaning in a forum thread of a related topic. Those who can hear- heard me, others (even if they flatter themselves to be objective) thought I was a lier, or my experience could not be applied to US. What else can I do if not just tell my stories? I am not a politician to campaign.
That's the problem - too many people have no idea what really goes on outside their own "personal world" and everyone thinks "it can't happen here, in the US", like they think bad things can never happen to THEM!
I am no politician either and will never be, nor do I want to be. Just talking here, that's all...
I home school my children with an online virtual school and the speech was NOT mandatory. I belive we all have a right to our opinions and should take more responsibility for educating our own children! I live with less money because I have choosen to stay home and be a very important part of what my children are being taught. I give my children choices and my opinions on all topics, political, math(I still can't comprehend how a negative and a negative = a positive) my bank never belives that! and any topics that arise on a daily basis. The key is to be strong and feel comfortable in our own beliefs and express them in a calm and productive manner! Great HUB!
I'm late to this party, I was interested in some of the comments made by Lily Rose on other hubs so I came to check out her hubs.
This is a great hub and brings forth something all parents should be concerned with. Comrade Obama (excuse me while I spit) needs to keep out of the schools, Period. I don't care how many other Presidents have spoken in schools or what their party affiliations were. Obama (excuse me while I spit) has a hidden agenda and he will weasel it through from the bottom up. Hitler used the Brown Shirts to bend young minds and swing them over to his agenda. I'd rather my grand kids be faced with a child molester than to the views and agenda of Obama (exuse me while I spit).
I thank God that I am no longer an active Duty Marine that would be required to salute this scum bag who would not salute the Flag that I fought for.
He has accomplished nothing since being in office. his first move to close Guantanamo Bay, well I heard the bull fart, but I see no action ... I don't think I need to list his promises 1 by 1 to demonstrate "FAIL"!
In the pit of any Americans stomach who has seen and learned from history, there is a fear.
Proof? The gun stores were emptied of both arms and ammunition 7 days after the election and stayed that way for some time, it's just lately that inventory is returning to base levels. People with t-shirts of support for Obama (excuse me while I spit)were in line at the stores buying guns and ammo. They too, were expecting another ban as Clinton did. Yet congress would not send a bill, they know that move will result in congress changing hands.
2010 is coming 'yall hide and watch!
Lily Rose, thank you for a great hub! People need some shaking to wake their butts up.
50 Caliber - thanks for all your comments; I'm happy to have you in my corner. It's amazing to me how many people just hear what they want to hear or just decide to "follow" the opinions of their friends or coworkers. People need to wake up and see Obama for what he really is (excuse me while I spit!) You made me laugh with that - thank you!
I think the speech BO ended up making was fine, but insiders say his original talk was much more "socialistic" in nature. Either way, the schools around here refused to show it because they said it was a waste of valuable class time.
Exactly, Halle, the original was definitely more "Socialistic" and that is what I, and many others, had a big problem with. I agree, Obama is a waste of time!
Lily,
We live in America and everyone is entitled to their opinions.
There are 2 main points I'd like to make on this old topic-
When a President wants to make a speech to our school children it can only be a good thing. Yes- you're right- no kid is really going to hear it in an understanding light- and you're right - they'll likely be paying attention to ANYTHING else. There is a subliminal message as well, to respect the President of the United States- and the country he represents. Whether you agree with his policy- or agreed with Reagan when I heard him in grade school talk to us about the evil empire- it plants the seed for discussion and curiosity. It's up to you and me, the PARENTS- to cultivate and nurture that seed. Your Cuba example is outdated. We live in a different era- one of instant information and no attention span. Even China can't keep Google out as it would appear.
My second point- whether you voted for him or not - he is the President. So was Bush, and Clinton before him, and Bush Sr. before them. You started the article off by proclaiming that you are "not that into politics".
If you are going to be this upset when our President attempts to inspire our lackluster schoolchildren than you should "get into politics". That's the beauty of our system.
In Cuba you cannot disagree nor can you run against the party. The thing that makes this country great is our advanced citizenry. You have to stomach the cries and shouts of those you disagree with, and they have to tolerate your opinions as well. If you have a problem with your school board- run for office- or find a candidate to support and get involved!
The sad reality is this country is in big trouble. It has little to do with Obama- nor would it make a difference if McCain took the election. We are a nation that has an expectation of lifestyle and luxury- with little to support it. Do you or any of the posters here only buy American? Clothes- fabrics, cars, gasoline, vegetables, computers, phones,....
Cheap labor will always go where labor is cheap. Schools and higher education are our only hope- and we're getting our ass kicked by India and China.
If any President wants to try and inspire my kids- fine by me. The point that I may or may not agree with his principles is not relevant.
Thehis, thank you for your comment; you make some very valid points. First off, I feel I should say that just because I said I wasn't "into" politics doesn't mean I don't know what's going on - I just prefer to take a back seat and mostly keep my opinion to myself; debating politics is just not fun for me, only stressful.
The Cuba example I used is what inspired me to write this - yes, it happened a long time ago, but it's relevant in my belief. I did not get any of it from Google, it came straight from someone I know and respect who has first hand knowledge from being there.
I, too, like for my children to be inspired to know and learn more, but the President of the United States has more important things to worry about and do than to try and brainwash MY kids - let their teachers and parents take care of helping to form their intellect!
Thanks again for visiting and commenting.
Well I did say "the writer of the article". And yes, I do believe racism plays a big part in a lot of the criticism he receives. And yes, it's true. Parents should stand up and talk to their kids about their education. BUT some don't. And besides, who do you think they are more likely to listen to---their parents or the President of the United States?
Thanks for returning after nearly a year to further comment, svencill. Once again I will not justify responding to your accusations of racism except to say that the color of his skin has nothing to do with how he is running this country (to the ground), but everything to do with how he got elected.
Well I am far behind finding this to respond, but by now surely the many can see what our country is turning into. Illegals with more rights and better treatment than citizens, borders unprotected, soldiers where they shouldn't be instead of defending this country, the special 30 that keeps police from doing anything about illegal criminals or illegals period and I keep asking who doesn't know what illegal means and all our tax money going for this, people not even citizens coming here from Mexico and getting on Social Security. I could go on forever, but people who are idiots want to scream prejudice. When they open their eyes to the truth it will be too late for us all! Great hub...I voted for him, my hopes were he would get rid of lobbyists and it was the biggest mistake of my life, so no one can yell prejudice to me and the man is as much white as black, to idiots screaming prejudice, and raised by whites. I figure Lobbyists are filling his pockets along with the others. People can be proud of America all they want to and I once was, but what now do we have to be proud of, they took Christianity from our schools and we pay for Muslims to have special rooms in schools and times walking out of classes but this is OK. I commend you for your courage to speak your mind, I always do! I don't trust him in this country much less talking to children! We know what he thinks by his actions!
Pollyannalana - thank you very much for your comment - better late than never, right?! Especially when what you have to say is so very true! It's not easy to figure out what will happen next, but I sure hope that most voting American realize what a mistake it was to put this man in office...
That is very true but the sad thing is I don't know who we can trust. I am neither party, I go with who I think will help change this country and so far I haven't seen him. Grant you Obama has made things much worse but Bush didn't try to do anything the eight years he had and all this was going on with illegal immigrants but Republicans get bought off by lobbyists from rich friends wanting cheap labor and we the people are paying the tab for all these illegals and republicans and democrats know it...what can we do? I hate it when people say we should be so proud to be an American and yes we should but you shouldn't be blind and I am not. It is looking pretty hopeless and i am a Christian but God is not going to come down and solve our problems, anyone really into the bible probably has a pretty good idea it is not going to get better. But we should all get together and have a voice and try something.
I don't know, but it seems to me that if the kids in school think that their job (staying in school and learning, getting an education) is something that the President of the United States of America thinks is important, it would encourage them to value their education.
Sure, those words are encouraging (albeit perhaps unnecessary) but that's not really what the jist of this conversation was about. Thank you for your comment, Dolores.
Patrice52 2 years ago
Oh My God! I'm beginning to think that a good part of our country should be searching for a medication to treat paranoia! Apparently, this "sneaky" speech is not mandatory, as I heard on the news today that some schools are dropping out. Nor do I believe there is anyway it could be made mandatory. I also think it shows a lot of direspect for the president of the United States for these schools to drop out. Obama's speech is intended to encourage children to stay in school, and perhaps more so because of his race, he most certainly would be concerned about the poverty stricken black communities where the drop out rates are very high. If he does encourage any child, white or black, to stay in school, I could only see this as a benefit to our whole country. Apparently I did take my medicine for paranoia this morning, because I don't believe there is any hidden agenda planned in this speech.
Get a grip people! If indeed President Obama desired to declare himself Castro or Hitler (as bizarre as this concept is), I do wish people would realize that this country has checks and balances. That is precisely why there are some many levels of government and so many elected officials. ANY president who declared himself dictator of the United States would be impeached in a heart beat.