Move over Black History Month

It’s been a few months but it has not been without its tasks. In my time off from blogging I have accomplished quite a bit, moved from Italy back to USA and purchased a home. Also had time to graduate (May) with second M.A. Now back to the news at hand.

Virginia governor (Republican) Robert McDonnell has declared April “Confederate Month” due in part (his words) to celebrating the states’ rights vs. the rights of the federal government. This proclamation, of course, is not without its controversy. Several civil rights groups have criticized the proclamation due to its obvious history and in my personal opinion insinuation. It has been 8 years since Virginia has declared such a notion, quite ironic that it is done during a time of such divisiveness and our president sharing heritage with the very slaves the confederates sought to control.

If the GOP is serious in its position of seeking more diversity within its party, acts such as this does little to help this cause. The civil war was created on the basis of slavery, history has taught us this. To prescribe that this proclamation is only to preserve history and the commonwealth of Virginia is not only ludicrous but dubious as well. Our country cannot heal nor move forward until both parties unite. This, of course, does not further the cause.

With issues plaguing the party such as infighting, lack of effective leadership within the RNC, tea party affiliations and overall bad publicity, this illustrates a bigger problem for all. One must wonder the reasons behind many of the tactics used by leaders within the party and worry not only for our nation but our future.