Latino Insurgent

Calle 13 Performs in Cuba, Sings Querido FBI

2010-03-26T01:05:00.000-04:00

Calle 13 one of the few conscientious artists of today takes the stage in Cuba with his pro-independence, anti-imperialist anthem written in 2005 after the assassination of Filiberto Ojeda Rios, leader of the Puerto Rican Macheteros.

Great Flashmob with Beyonce's Single Ladies

2009-07-30T19:57:00.004-04:00

Sometimes I wish I were a surfer

2009-07-30T03:17:00.001-04:00

Puerto Rican Actor Esai Morales in BSG: Caprica

2009-07-27T02:04:00.005-04:00

Esai Morales may not be a household name to many in the United States, but he should be a familiar face. The Puerto Rican actor has appeared in a multitude of productions including 1987's La Bamba to episodes of Jericho and 24. Much of his work, not unlike that of many other Puerto Ricans, has gone unnoticed by Hollywood who seemed at times to only call on him when they needed a brown face. Truth be told, the man has talent.

Now Mr. Morales will star in the new Battlestar Galactica spin off Caprica as Joseph Adama. On July 25th the cast of Caprica were on hand at Comic-Con, Zap2it has the live-blog of the panel.

The Caprica series is set to air on the Syfy channel Beginning in January 22, 2010. However for those that may have missed it, the show's pilot is available on DVD and I highly recommend it.

Good luck Esai, may the gods of Kobol be with you.

Brazil, Argentina vs H1N1 Swine Virus: People must come before profits

2009-07-26T12:39:00.006-04:00

This week at the Mercosur Summit held in Paraguay, leaders from Brazil and Argentina, despite their recent differences regarding bilateral trade relations, found common ground confronting the H1N1 Swine Flu Virus.

The respective presidents of both countries called for the removal of patent law restrictions that currently make the production of H1N1 vaccines the privileged activity of a handful of facilities, whose profits impoverish us all.

Yes, public health is important. Good public health policy is what guarantees that every piece of food that touches our lips is safe to consume, preferably free from Swine Flu. That faction of civil society that will argue that this will lead to communism, that patent laws are sacred, that innovation will be hurt, should first consider what the consequences would be of a Swine Flu epidemic arising from the farm lands of the developing world, where much of their precious fruits and vegetables are grown.

In the words of Argentina's Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, "it's beyond question that we're confronting a situation in which the needs of millions of people cannot be subordinated to economic interests."

Continuing the Failed "War on Drugs"

2009-03-30T10:51:00.002-04:00

A set of hypothetical questions to be pondered by a hypothetical person.

Dear Mr. President,

I must begin to question some of your reasoning regarding your recent, dismissal and non-answer to a question posed to you through your online question polling service. At the website which you championed as a good move for American Democracy, you allowed users to submit and vote on questions that would be asked of you during a town-hall style meeting. One question in particular has drawn the ire of people from a variety of ideological backgrounds. The question of legalization of marijuana as a challenge to the failed policies of the “War on Drugs.”

In your book entitled Dreams of my Father, you cited your own drug use and abuse, as a problem. Paraphrasing, you stated you did it because you were suffering from depression. You claim to have used during this period of your life, so called “soft drugs,” such as marijuana and alcohol, and so called “hard drugs” such as cocaine. I am glad that you were able to clean up your life, go to college, and truly serve a variety of communities.

Now, pause for a second of contemplation. Your illegal drug use back then was by all accounts as illegal as it was now. This fact has not changed for some time, at least not in my lifetime and from my reading of history not since the early twentieth century. That given I pose the following situation: Young Barack Obama is arrested and jailed for drugs possession. Now ask these questions:

How would the Obama story have ended had you been treated as so many other black and brown persons have been treated when they are caught in possession of illegal drugs?

Would your story have been as inspiring?

Would your beautiful wife have married you?

Would you have been elected junior Senator from the great state of Illinois?

Would you be President of the United States today?

The United States jails more people per capita than any other industrialized nation. More than 500,000 of those incarcerated are in prison for drug possession.

I understand your attempt to be like former President Reagan, you hope to reach across party lines, etc., but continuing his failed “war on drugs” is not change. The mere fact that you got away with committing a crime does not make it okay, and if it does, why does it not make it okay for all of those people referenced above?

With all due respect,
Luminous

P.S. I do not pretend to know the all the answers or the future, it could be that treating drug use as a health issue would be as big a failure as treating it as a criminal issue. But I do know that treating drug use as a criminal issue has been a failure, and as such we have the responsibility to search for more viable options to solve problems. We are a nation of “doers” we must do something.

Puerto Rico Islanders headed for Finals in CONCACAF Champions League

2009-03-24T20:56:00.006-04:00

Somewhere below the Puerto Rican radar the Puerto Rico Islanders are succeeding and its about time la gente noticed. The team is one win away from entering the finals of the CONCACAF Champions League. I know what you're thinking, "Soccer?!? What?". Get your head out of your ass and check it out.

Here's the bracket:

And here's the link: CONCACAF Champion's League

The Latino Insurgent is BACK!!!

2009-02-27T11:13:00.004-05:00

That's right Mutherfuckers. This was a long hiatus but it has come to an end.

I'm thinking of the Economy, the wars, and the future...

We are probable fucked...

How Obama Won

2008-11-11T03:03:00.005-05:00

'Knights for Obama' at the University of Central Florida rallying students to turn out and vote on November 4. After months of organizing the student body, arranging early voting opportunities, and maintaining Obama's name on the lips of every student, The 'Knights for Obama' organization did its job, as many others did across the nation. An unpaid army of volunteers powered by the promise of HOPE and the expectation of CHANGE, these students carried the vote to the polls like none other have in Central Florida, perhaps the entire state. If anyone asks how Obama won Florida, and the nation, remember the 'Knights for Obama'

Sometimes the good guys win.

Colin Powell Endorses Barack Obama: Lays down case against McCain

2008-10-19T10:58:00.002-04:00

Among the pantheon of great conservative/Republican men and women there is one person who still garners the respect of most Americans, that's Colin Powell. To say that the man has "gravitas" is as obvious as saying that water is wet. Inspite of his role in bringing forward the case for the Iraq War, the level of respect he has been afforded by liberal America is unprecedented. This strange contradiction is due to the fact, as reported extensively by administration insiders, that as Secretary of State, Powell engaged in a vehement one man campaign inside the White House to restrain the Bush Administration. His resignation from the post in 2005 was however the only public sign of disagreement with Bush and his neoconservative cadre.

Since, his voice has been peculiarly absent from the growing critical chorus against Bush as his military sense of loyalty has bound him to the Bush Administration. Others who have left the administration over the years have nevertheless written much on the topic and have thus given voice to a man who to this day will not speak ill of the Bush administration, but whose opposition to the Bush doctrine has only been matched by his loyalty.

Today, Colin Powell broke his silence and spoke before the national television audience of NBC's Meet the Press giving an unambigous endorsement for Senator Barack Obama while equally denouncing Senator John McCain's campaign and personal judgment. While he does not go after his former boss in the White House, Powell nevertheless gives the impression of a man whose consciousness and intellect forbid him to follow the party line any longer.

Here it is in his own words:

Bush Policy: Aid to Cuba Depends on Politics

2008-10-13T02:09:00.007-04:00

On Friday October 10, President Bush met with leaders of the Cuban American community in Coral Gables, Florida to discuss his the Bush Administration's response to Hurricane Ike in Cuba. In the process Bush made a few remarks that are, at the very least, interesting for their hypocrisy.

As part of his remarks Bush said:

"You know, recently Ike hit Cuba very hard and all Americans, whether they be Cuban Americans or otherwise, grieve deeply about the damage done to the average Cuban citizen. And so my government, under the leadership of Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez, offered aid from the United States to the Cuban people. But that aid was rejected by the Castros, which should tell the people of Cuba and the people around the world that the Castro people are only interested in themselves and their power, and not to the benefit and welfare of the Cuban people."

First of all lets address the hypocrisy in this here statement. According to Bush, the denial of American aid is proof of Raul and Fidel Castro's selfishness and indifference towards the people of Cuba. If that logic is correct then we can only assume that back in 2005 when hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans and FEMA was nowhere to be found, that Bush's decision to reject Cuban medical aid was similarly selfish and proof of Bush's own indifference towards the people of New Orleans. After all, the US seemed utterly incapable of managing the situation and while people drowned, Cuba had a ship with 500 medically trained personnel ready for deployment offered to the US without preconditions. An offer rejected by the Bush Administration.

So either Bush and Castro are equally heartless towards their people or they both placed national security concerns above the immediate crisis. Either logic can be applied, but only hypocrisy leads you to assign logic to one but not the other.

In other remarks Bush hints at something more important from his point of view:

"You know, our government has been very clear about our strategy, and that is, is that we will change the embargo strategy only when the government of Cuba lets the people of Cuba express themselves freely. We will change our policy when the people running Cuba free people of conscience from the prisons. But until then we won't change, because our message is to the Cuban people, you're being repressed by a handful of elites that are holding back your great potential. And we will not put policies in place that allow them to benefit personally at the expense of the Cuban people."

Here he is referring to an issue that has been at the forefront of Cuban American issues, while being careful not to betray the image of the US for American voters while equally addressing the complaints of the group. What is he referring to?

Immediately after Hurricane Ike hit Cuba, the Cuban American community sprang into action amassing aid packages for the people of Cuba. Everything from clothing to building supplies and food were carefully collected and prepared for shipment to the island. This was however a futile effort as the Bush administration moved to block all aid from Cuban Americans to Cubans in the island. This is the policy Bush is referring to when he speaks about not changing the Administration's Cuban Policy which has limited the ability of Cubans to communicate and send money or aid to the island nation.

In short what Bush was saying to this group of Cuban Americans is that 1) despite the crisis in Cuba, American foreign policy is more important than the people's welfare, 2) that aid can only be sent to Cuba by the hand of the American Government or its agents in the island, 3) that change to this policy as well as others will only come once Cuba accepts American preconditions.

It is true that Cuba rejected aid, aid from the American government that is, not aid in general. In fact, not only did Cuba appeal to the US government to allow the Cuban American community to send aid, but it asked the international community as well. In all Cuba has thus far received over 2,500 tons of relief from 230 international relief aid shipments worth 17 million dollars out of the 478 offers worth 51 million dollars.

Cuba asked for aid, the Cuban American Community responded admirable, the International Community responded as well, however it was the United States, Bush's Administration specifically, which turned this crisis into a political volleyball by offering aid only if it came under the name of "USAID". Now Bush takes a victory lap in Cuban neighborhoods while playing to the well-worn ears of the Cuban American elite in Miami who seem at times more interested in a photo-op with Bush than calling him out for his hypocrisy against their own brethren.

The Case for Disbanding NATO

2008-10-02T12:41:00.003-04:00

As a collective security agreement, NATO is dead.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) was first organized to counter the threat (whether real or imagined) of an expansionist Soviet Union. Seventeen years after the collapse of the Soviet Union however, NATO still exists and far from providing collective security it now serves as a tool of American expansionism.

If the NATO treaty is to be interpreted as it has historically been presented whereby NATO allies are required to act in the defense of any other ally, then the foreign relations of the United States present an ever growing threat to the peace and security of European nations. While it is undeniable that NATO did serve its purpose, NATO has transformed Europe into a buffer zone for the protection of the United States.

European security experts in whole must be considering already the threat posed by American diplomatic recklessness. After all, if the United States is going to continue with a foreign policy that has it provoking war against Russia, igniting conflict in Pakistan, threatening Iran, stoking Venezuela, interfering in Bolivia, and unilaterally invading two countries, Europe must reassess its membership in this organization for its own good.

Surely it did not escape the attention of those in the know that the United States has repeatedly shown an utter disregard for the founding principles of NATO cooperative arrangement. Article 1 of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is the most clear example which states:

"The Parties undertake, as set forth in the Charter of the United Nations, to settle any international dispute in which they may be involved by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace and security and justice are not endangered, and to refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force in any manner inconsistent with the purposes of the United Nations."

In just those two lines I have bolded we find Iraq and Iran respectively. If the goal is that “peace and security and justice” be preserved, the United States has made a joke of this document’s original intentions. Surely, any such action by any European nation would have immediately been visited by anger from its members, but the way in which the U.S. carries itself across sovereign lines and against United Nations resolutions has only been met by a deafening silence from the European Community.

Lets be clear, any treaty which endangers the territorial peace of Europe and binds European armed forces to an American command and American foreign interest policy, is an ill-conceived treaty.

Currently NATO Allies are playing a game of chicken against Russia. Would any one of these nations other than the United States, really believe that they would be in the same situation otherwise. Russia can be a bully, but it’s an honest bully. You know when Russia is bullying you, I’m afraid however that Europe has lost the ability to tell when the U.S. bullies them.

Take the installation of the missile defense system in Poland and the Czech Republic. The U.S. claims these are meant to deter an Iranian attack against Europe, which is simply nonsense. Anti-Iranian missile facilities should be in Turkey, not Eastern Europe. The placement of these has been widely derided as an anti-Russian defense, but Europe has remained silent on the issue tacitly approving it all the while making themselves a target should US-Russian relations break down into war.

Meanwhile, the US has actively pushed for the addition of Georgia and Ukraine as full members of the NATO Alliance, a decision which will be NATO’s last. Ukraine, a nuclear power is too close for the comfort of Russia. Despite Russian protests the United States is intent on moving forward. Nevermind that the US would not tolerate a similar move by Russia in the Western Hemisphere, nevermind that the US promised not to expand NATO or that both Ukraine and Georgia are only nominal democracies. Europe remains silent as the continent bows down to America’s most aggressive foreign policy since its invasion of Mexico in 1846.

NATO as an American strategy surely served to benefit Europe when it was most needed. Now that strategy simply ensures that the only viable opposition to the US is dressed up as a threat to all European nations.

Europe must remove itself from NATO and reorganize itself as a third-party military alliance. European security and peace will only be ensured by European military independence. Let NATO die, before it kills us all.

Richard Trumka: We can't sit silent or look the other way

2008-10-02T11:07:00.003-04:00

AFL-CIO Secretary Treasurer Richard Trumka speaking at the united Steelworkers convention in July of this year. This is an excerpt of the speech. This is a call to arms for all workers who as he says "can't stay silent or look the other way".

Immigration Enforcement Hunts Canadians [COMEDY]

2008-09-28T14:14:00.004-04:00

This is a comedic take on what it might be like if the U.S. government conducted immigration raids against Canadians living in the United States in the same way that it hunts Mexicans immigrants. I found it to be a very funny and smart critique of the I.C.E. department of our fearless leaders at Homeland Insecurity. Check it out, there are more smarts on this that in the entire Bush Administration.

Edwin Irizarry Mora para Gobernador de Puerto Rico

2008-09-28T13:17:00.005-04:00

Aquí les presento el anuncio político para la campaña del Profesor Edwin Irizarry Mora para Gobernador de Puerto Rico de parte del Partido Independentista de Puerto Rico (PIP).

Este es el momento mi gente. Vamos a votar por el futuro de nuestra patria, nuestra independencia.

Obama, Palin and the Experience Question - Analysis by Luminous

2008-09-28T02:00:00.011-04:00

Barack Obama's inexperience has been the core argument of both Hillary Clinton's and now John McCain's Presidential Campaign. However, with Sarah Palin as John McCain's Vice President, doesn't the argument just seem to vanish.

During the primaries I was an avid Barack Obama supporter, in face of the Rev. Wright "Scandal," Rezko-gate, the "cling to guns" gaffe, I remained an avid supporter. While his rhetorical skills were of course impressive, they were not to me inspiring or anything, but the points that he made, to me, always made sense. As a student of Political Science, I have come to understand that diplomacy is an incredibly powerful way to solve problems and resolve issues that effect all of us. Barack Obama was one of the few DNC candidates who said yes to meeting with leaders of so-called "Rogue" nations, without precondition. Because in his view, and in mine, creating preconditions to discussing problems is not productive, all it does is anger the leadership who think they are right. We should not negotiate out of fear, nor should we fear negotiating. My first IR professor made a big point of instilling in us the idea that you cannot change people by ignoring them. Ignoring world leaders doesn't work either. This is not naive, this is one of those few tenets of basic psychology that I can actually agree with.

I will preface the next section by presenting my recollection of the of conversation I had in Indiana with a couple of Clinton supporters. One said that he would support McCain if Hillary was not the nominee, the other said she would be undecided but thought that Obama's high-minded "overly positive" view of the world wasn't reality and that she would have trouble supporting him. Then she said something that struck me and while on my mind, I suppose from Chappelle jokes, not something I really thought would happen, "Plus they are probably going to kill him." Mind you this is Middle-America, but I thought "this is an actual possibility."

So now given that Obama will more than likely be the target of more assassination attempts than any other President in history even the one that literally stole an election circa 2000, I am glad that Sen. Obama chose a running mate that is qualified, intelligent, and passionate (although at times to a fault). Yes Joe Biden says random dumb shit from time to time but at least I know he has sat and actually thought about some of the items on that long list of problems facing the country.

Watch this:

...now ask yourself, seriously, what the hell is she talking about?

Now, John McCain, is 72 years old, a man who has had cancer 3 times, so although his death may not be the result of assassination it is still very much a possibility. And this is who he wants to be the President should he pass.

Check out this article by Fareed Zakaria entitled "Palin Is Ready? Please." and please tell your friends to vote Obama 08.

Side note: Rev. Wright, if you hear him in context, spits some real shit when he wants to. He pointed out a very poignant bible verse John 10:16 "And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd," and somehow all those arguments I had in my Christian head about other religions being okay for other people, and being told by various "Christian types" that those folks were doomed to burn, etc. etc. were suddenly resolved. I am now making it a point to reference this verse as much as possible.

And a note to readers about the author, I also cling to guns.

Luminous is one our newest contributor to LatinoInsurgent.com, a Gradute student of Political Science and top local DJ.
www.djluminous.com

Voter Registration Deadline - By State- 2008 General Election

2008-09-26T16:22:00.003-04:00

Every state determines their own voter registration procedures including the voter registration deadline, after which you will not be eligible to vote. So make sure you are registered. Make sure you vote.

Alabama Fri, Oct. 24
Alaska Sun, Oct. 5 (postmark by Sat, Oct. 4)
Arizona Mon, Oct. 6
Arkansas Mon, Oct. 6
California Mon, Oct. 20
Colorado Mon, Oct. 6
Connecticut Tues, Oct. 21
Delaware Sat, Oct. 11
District of Columbia Mon, Oct. 6
Florida Mon, Oct. 6
Georgia Mon, Oct. 6
Hawaii Mon, Oct. 6
Idaho Register at Polls
Illinois Tues, Oct. 7
Indiana Mon, Oct. 6
Iowa Fri, Oct. 24 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Kansas Mon, Oct. 20
Kentucky Mon, Oct. 6
Louisiana Mon, Oct. 6
Maine Tue, Oct. 21 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Maryland Tue, Oct. 14
Massachusetts Wed, Oct. 15
Michigan Mon, Oct. 6
Minnesota Same Day Registration at polling place
Mississippi Mon, Oct. 6
Missouri Wed, Oct. 8
Montana Mon, Oct. 6 (or same day at elections office)
Nebraska Fri, Oct. 24 (mail by Fri, Oct. 17)
Nevada Tue, Oct. 14
New Hampshire Same Day
New Jersey Tues, Oct. 14
New Mexico Tues, Oct. 7
New York Fri, Oct. 10
North Carolina Fri, Oct. 10 (or in person until Nov. 1st)
North Dakota N/A
Ohio Mon, Oct. 6
Oklahoma Fri, Oct. 10
Oregon Tue, Oct. 14
Pennsylvania Mon, Oct. 6
Rhode Island Sat, Oct. 4
South Carolina Sat, Oct. 4
South Dakota Mon, Oct. 20
Tennessee Mon, Oct. 6
Texas Mon, Oct. 6
Utah Mon, Oct. 6 or in person Tue, Oct. 28
Vermont Wed, Oct. 29
Virginia Mon, Oct. 6
Washington Mon, Oct. 4 (or Mon, Oct. 20 in person)
West Virginia Wed, Oct. 15
Wisconsin Wed, Oct. 15 (or on Election Day at polling place)
Wyoming Can register at polls

[Source: Rock The Vote]

Angela Davis in the House

2008-09-25T22:02:00.010-04:00

When the Latino Insurgent wrote to me asking for the “black female militant perspective” on world events, I couldn’t refuse after hearing that Angela Davis would be in the Cornhusker State. Davis didn’t expect that packed in a Nebraska community center she would find supporters of Mondo we Langa and Ed Poindexter, two former Black Panther Party for Self-Defense members, who are awaiting a post-conviction appeal on October 1^st at the Nebraska Supreme Court. The two are serving life sentences for the death of Larry Minard, an Omaha police officer, 38 years ago. Amnesty International has determined that they are “prisoners of conscience,” arrested under what Davis calls the “bin of terrorism” that swept the sixties, fueled by Hoover’s COINTELPRO. Mondo and Ed maintain that they had nothing to do with Minard’s death. New evidence will hopefully shed light on this during their post-conviction.

Like Mondo and Ed, Angela Davis fell victim to the “bin of terrorism.” She served 18 months in prison and was placed on the FBI’s “Ten Most Wanted List,” for her political views. The parallels between the terror watch of the sixties and post-9/11 shouldn’t be surprising to anyone. After all, we are fighting a war of rhetoric—Iraqi Freedom, Terrorism, etc—blanket abstractions that are expansive and flexible enough to sweep anyone within the great terror bin. I mean seriously, do we really know who our enemies are?

I’ve been reading Scott McCloud’s book on comics with my students. He talks about the differences between received and perceived information, how the more abstracted the image is the greater the levels of perception. We have to do a lot more with the information—we have to decode it and process the decoded message. We have to be versed in specialized language to some degree in order to do this. BUT if abstractions are molded into recognizable shapes then we’ve shifted back to received information. I think that something similar has happened with our war of rhetoric. That is, we have blanket, abstract ideas to which the admin attaches faces. And these faces are shaped out of what we are culturally indoctrinated to recognize as dangerous—black faces, Latino faces, Middle Eastern faces, etc. The faces that are attached to these ideas are so temporary that they serve their purpose—to divert our attention—for a singular political moment. And then they (these faces) don’t matter anymore and they disappear from the national consciousness. Case in point: when was the last time that anyone mentioned bin Laden?

To go back to that political moment, open up the terror bin, and release the prisoners of conscience who were imprisoned due to the corrupt practices of COINTELPRO is another deal, but Angela Davis has spent her life doing this work.

Davis would go further and add that prison inmates are labeled as another form of “terrorists.” She’s written extensively on the “prison industrial complex” and she would go as far as to say that we should consider abolishing the prison system as we know it—it serves one main purpose: “to provide the material for the world.” The racialized material property is so whetted to our capitalist dollar that we can’t see where it ends and begins, hence Davis’s parallels between the prison industrial complex and slavery.

It’s hard for me not to agree with the parallels Davis makes. My own brother, a former college student, a father of three, and an Americorps volunteer with no priors is serving a term reduced to life with the possibility of parole for an accidental shooting after being falsely accused of theft and assaulted by drunk, white, college students. You don’t have to ask whether or not I think justice was served, but I will say that if he were ever to be paroled, I can’t imagine the great possibilities that lay ahead of him without access to an education as prisons begin to strip away any possible rehabilitative systems that came about with prison reform.

Since we’re only a couple months away from the election, I’ll end on some words that Angela Davis offered in this regard. She said that we should “take seriously, the contributions of those that were active during that year.” She was talking about the year 1968—the election year that MLK and RFK were both assassinated. Although she holds both leaders in high regard, she reminded us that “we often individualize history” forgetting that it’s a “community of struggle.” She said, “We always ask who is going to lead us to freedom and we give up our individual power.” Davis wasn’t just talking about 1968 anymore. She was talking about our tendency to invest all of our hope behind one face. We expect this messiah to come in and save us all so then we don’t have to act anymore. Does it really matter who we vote for if all we do is cast our ballot, go home, and watch the Home Shopping Network? The great “change” that the Democrats (and now the Republicans, apparently) are waiting for won’t happen without individual acts of change.

NCLR: It is now time to VOTE!

2008-09-25T16:12:00.004-04:00

NCLR, The National Council of La Raza, has sent out a press release announcing the launch of their online voter mobilization campaign. Also known as a GOTV ( Get Out The Vote) campaign, this one is particularly unique as for the first time it looks like the full weight of the NCLR is going to be mobilized to this effort including the work of its affiliates and community partners. Check out the video below.

Hispanic voter registration campaigns have always been successful, but it is the GOTV, voter mobilization phase that usually gets left behind, and it is also the one that always requires the most funding to accomplish. NCLR is taking a step in the right direction with this campaign. Check out the video below the excerpt of the press release.

From the Press Release:

NCLR LAUNCHES ONLINE MULTIMEDIA CAMPAIGN FOR LATINO VOTER MOBILIZATION

Washington, DC—Building on the tremendous success of the citizenship campaign, ya es hora ¡Ciudadanía! (It’s Time: Citizenship!), the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States, today launched Yo Votaré, an online multimedia campaign to complement the ya es hora efforts and those of multiple other partners. The new website, www.YoVotare.org, will serve as a one-stop portal to connect Latinos with various unprecedented efforts to register new voters, provide voter information and education tools, and increase voter turnout in November. There are 17 million eligible Hispanic voters in the United States who can make a difference in this election.

Outlandish: Redefining World Music

2008-09-25T15:39:00.003-04:00

Outlandish now has just over a decade of recordings to their name, but it is now that their sound and lyrics are beginning to resonate. If you don't know them, here is a little background. Outlandish is a hip-hop/r&b band made up of one Honduran (Lenny Martinez), one Pakistani (Waqas Ali Qadri), and one Moroccan (Isam Bachiri), who since 1997 and from Denmark have been blurring the musical lines, and linguistic lines, of what hip hop is internationally.

Here are some of their music, to help expand your horizons a bit.

Update:I just checked Amazon.com and they have heir latest album on sale as an MP3 download without DRM (every album should be DRM-free). Here is the link:Closer Than Veins - Deluxe Edition

Callin U by Outlandish...

Walou '04 by Outlandish...

I Only Ask of God by Outlandish...

Update:I just checked Amazon.com and they have heir latest album on sale as an MP3 download without DRM (every album should be DRM-free). Here is the link:Closer Than Veins - Deluxe Edition

Bailouts and the Future of the American Economy

2008-09-24T13:53:00.003-04:00

Economic Analysis by Michael Deliz

The role of Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac in the present economic crisis is undeniably central to much of the problems faced by the financial markets. This is true. Remember however that Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac were only the tip of the iceberg. If all the blame could be placed on the failure of these two agencies then the bailout of the two would have sufficed to fix the crisis. Bear Stearns, Citybank, AIG, Merrill Lynch, Washington Mutual, Indymac, Lehman Brothers, and over a dozen regional banks have all failed, are failing, or are about to fail withing the coming weeks. The problem as easy and convinient as it may be to try to place upon a single factor, simply cannot be dismissed so easily. Other factors such as the credit-swap industry and the overall deregulation of the banking industry are equally blameworthy.

In short, what we are facing is a systematic failure. An economy-wide collapse which could very easily and quickly (if history is a guide) trickle down to the lowest denominators of the economy, ie. your job and your ability to pay your bills.

At the moment these banking/credit failures have all been contained within the framework of the FDIC (the insurance that protects your money if you bank happens to go bankrupt). Without the FDIC, all of these bank failures would have translated to the immediate wipeout of every individual and business whose money was kept in those banks. This would have prompted an unstoppable downward spiral of bankruns and loan recalls, followed by business failures, massive layoffs and unemployment. .. essentially 1929 all over again.

The saving grace of the FDIC framework however is limited and is not designed to accomodate large scale system wide failures. So as long as the collapse was gradual and fairly distributed in time, the FDIC would have been able to take care of much of the problem. But as so many economists, including Alan Greenspan, have argued, we are in uncharted waters. Simply put, the system as a whole is such a tangled web of financial institutions, one that now reaches far beyond the territorial boundaries of the United States, that predicting how this behemoth of the economy will react is impossible to decipher from our present vantage point.

All of this however is not happening in a vaccum, but instead during a record low for the value of the dollar, under record government debt, and the largest budgetary deficit since WWII. In other words, in the meantime, there will be no respite.

The bailout, all $700+ billion of it, may really be the only solution. But lets be clear about who and what is involved in this bailout. This is being presented by the Bush administration and championed by the Treasury Secretary, but this bailout propossal is NOT a creation of the Bush Administration. This bailout propossal was written BY and FOR the banks, not for you. By adding close to another trillion dollars into the national debt, which currently stands at a historic 9.7 trillion, and was expected to reach $11 trillion by the end of 2009, the national debt could easily at this rate hit $13 trillion by 2010-2011, as we are currently already amassing about $480 billion of new debt per year and increasing, without even factoring the bailout into the numbers.

This is not something that can be simply shrugged off.

In 2007, the public debt of the United States was 60% (over $8 trillion) of our GDP of $13.8 trillion. So given the current anemic rate of growth in the economy, and the unlikelyhood of any betterment of it in the near future, our national public debt will reach and overtake the 100% mark of our GDP by 2010 with this bailout added.

That 100% mark in debt to GDP is the point where international lending organization consider your country to be BANKRUPT. Were that to happen, the worth of the American dollar will be devalued to junk status and everything that is currently traded in dollar denomination will skyrocket in price. The price of oil already now fluctuates the most based on the day to day worth of the dollar, rather than on threats of war in the middle east.

This doom and gloom scenario, is actually the optimistic scenario.

The worst case scenario has a devalued dollar forcing OPEC to adopt the euro as its trade currency, forcing the selloff of American dollars from national reserve banks across the world, including the subsequent move by China (our largest creditor) to then freeze all lending and investment into the US. This of course still doesn't include the geopolitical pitfalls that could include an Israeli-Iranian conflict, an oil trade war with Venezuela, a growing possibility of involvement in a civil war in Pakistan, as well as increased tensions with trade sanctions and increased militarization against Russia. Then, take into account the seeming continuation of the neverending war on terror which is costing this country 10-16 billion dollars a month and the outlook is even more grim.

There is no easy solution, nor easy blame as the precursory events leading to this have been building for decades and will most likely be felt for many years to come.

We will eventually all feel this one, specially when we start paying for it.

Filiberto Lives!

2008-09-23T20:13:00.008-04:00

Three years ago on this day the F.B.I. assassinated Filiberto Ojeda Rios. Thousands of people in Puerto Rico and throughout the Diaspora protested. Murals were painted. T-Shirts were printed. Even a reggaeton song was made. All condemning the brutal and cowardly acts of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigations.

Three years ago on this day the F.B.I assassinated Filiberto Ojeda Rios. In Puerto Rico people rallied to the streets yelling "asesinos", while the Governor put on his best "I don’t know shit" face and claimed he was not aware of the assassination orders being executed in the small town of Hormigueros on Puerto Rico’s west coast. The chief of Police, an ex-F.B.I. agent himself, did the same.

In Chicago, Orlando, New York, Philadelphia and other cities throughout the Diaspora, Puerto Rican community leaders and their allies and friends held events and organized to spread the word about yet another vicious attack against those struggling for freedom and independence for Puerto Rico.

Three years ago on this day the F.B.I. assassinated Filiberto Ojeda Rios. The month’s that followed were filled with allegations, denials, and a large-scale witch hunt rounding up professors, shoe repairmen, authors, community organizers, and students whom the F.B.I. tried to tie to the clandestine Pro-Independence group Los Macheteros. After one such round up, at a well respected and much loved professor’s house, the media, who was covering the event, was trampled on and maced by the F.B.I.

Three years ago on this day the F.B.I. assassinated Filiberto Ojeda Rios. The various multitudes of pro-independence organizations that for decades had been at difference with each other were speaking about unity and collective action. This was to be the defining moment when ideologies and egos were going to be put to the back in the spirit of unity, as Filiberto himself had called for at his last speech. Socialista, pipiolo, nacionalista, Chicago, New York were all identifiers that were no longer going to mean shit. All that was supposed to matter now was that everyone wanted the same thing, the independence of Puerto Rico.

Three years ago on this day the F.B.I. assassinated Filiberto Ojeda Rios. In the time since then Filiberto has grown to become another symbolic figure that stands to inspire and challenge us.

In reflecting on what occurred that day I kept returning to the fact that the assassination highlighted something for me that I have always believed and spoken about and that is that the "movement’s" failure lays in its reactionary nature.

"Look they assassinated Filiberto! Let’s go out and…. do something!"

Colonialism sucks! No shit!

People know that colonialism is evil and destructive. But what is the alternative? The responsibility of the various organizations and individuals that claim to be pro-independence should be to educate and show the people that alternative.

Alternative schools. Co-ops. Health clinics. Independentista businesses. Community based and centered so that you can decentralize the government and people no longer feel they need it to survive. As they do now, and therefore support and vote for its survival. So come November when people go to vote in the first gubernatorial race since the assassination no surprises will occur. If people didn’t vote for PIP after they spearheaded the removal of the Navy from Vieques, I have no faith that they will now. Nor will this even be an issue of significance to voters on the island.

Three years ago on this day the F.B.I. assassinated Filiberto Ojeda Rios.
But Filiberto lives!

Obama's New Spanish Language Campaign Ads

2008-09-23T17:25:00.003-04:00

The latest ads coming out of the Obama/Biden camapign are targeting the Hispanic communities of states considered battleground contests for the November 4th election. The New Mexico ad is particularly important as New Mexico inches closes into the solid Blue category, but in Florida the contest will be tougher and the ads may be too little too late to generate a groundswell of support. The Nevada and Colorado Ads however may just be good enough to edge out a victory in these hard-fought states where the electoral difference is to to be in the fractions of a percent.

These ads are the first in Spanish using the now famous McCain gaffe "the fundamentals of our economy are strong."

Also interesting is how these ads are all essentially the same with the exception of the statistics in the first few seconds of the ads. It would be nice to see some polling numbers of the Hispanic community before and after the ads, as well as in comparison with each other state. Here are the ads:

NEW MEXICO AD:

FLORIDA AD:

NEVADA AD:

COLORADO AD:

Christina Kirchner of Argentina Addresses Latin American Issues

2008-09-23T14:46:00.003-04:00

Christina Fernandez de Kirchner, President of Argentina, spoke before a meeting of the Council on Foreign Relations on September 22, 2008. After her speech a Q&A session followed, here is that portion of the meeting:

MODERATOR: Well, thank you for that thorough, you know, and far-ranging and thoughtful address. Many of the prerogatives of my job -- and ask one or two questions, then we will quickly open it up.

You've come to the United States approximately 45 days, give or take, before an election in this country. If you could advise the next president of the United States, what is it you would want to see in the way of changes or continuity when it comes to U.S. policy towards your part of the world?

KIRCHNER: Well, in terms of -- and please allow me to say I do not intend to meddle with the internal political life of the U.S., particularly only a few days away from your election on November the 4th. But I must confess that I was never this excited to follow both the primaries of the Democrats and Republicans, as well as both conventions. And this is not just because I'm now president of Argentina, but because as a citizen of the world I recognize the importance the new president of the U.S. will have in a world as ours.

What do we actually expect at the universal level from the next U.S. administration? I will say a reconstruction of multilateralism, which is not to do only with our own convictions -- which of course, have a lot to do with it, too. You know, the fact that we believe that you can give more legitimacy to the fight against terrorism or against drug trafficking, a fight which must be waged by all democratic societies, but also we think that the decision to pursue unilateral policies, as was the case with this current administration, that has had an impact on the world and has actually had a negative impact on the interests of the U.S. as a country.

I would dare say, based on the polls one sees, the image of the U.S. around the world has been negatively affected, and this is something we talked about during our luncheon. And politics is about results. You know, there might have been (good ?) intentions, but politics is about results.

MODERATOR: Wouldn't Argentina -- wouldn't Argentina act unilaterally if it felt that its national interests required it?

KIRCHNER: In terms of aggression? You mean a war?

Well, I would dare say respect for international law, observance of international law in order to accept the rules -- (inaudible) -- would prevent us from doing that. In fact, we have made a strong contribution for no country in the region to take such (status ?). Look, if that were may view, I could have justified Ecuador's responding with an aggression to Colombia due to Colombia's invasion of its territory, but my own attitude, the attitude of Argentina, has been at all times to go all the way back to undo that and to prevent the adoption of unilateral measures by Colombia against -- by Ecuador against Colombia, because there were higher interests in the region which had to do precisely with preserving peace.

Preventive action or preventive war is not something we endorse as a measure, and even less so outside the framework of international law. I believe that unilateralism has been bad for the United States. And let me point out the difference between the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan with the consensus of all nations and with the support of all nations, as opposed to the U.S. when dealing with the situation in Iraq, when even some of the allies of the U.S. withdrew their support.

I'm not talking about intentions, only about results. Again, in politics you may have the best intentions, but if the results are not good and you are left in isolation, it means that your policies have perhaps not been the best ones. I try to remain as objective as possible.

So, what do we expect from the U.S. with regard to our own region? Well, first, I would say, a different look and a different presence in a region. In a way, the United States has distanced itself from our region, and we think that there should be a different position and look at South America.

You know, this is something we raised at a meeting of the Americas, I believe in Monterrey. Back then, it was a time when the situation of emerging countries was not yet the one we now get to see in economic or growth terms, and we even talked about the help of the United States. I actually talked to a representative, who is now a senator, a Democrat. He also -- can I mention him or can I say who he was or -- (inaudible). I remember I met with him while he was still a representative; he is now a senator. And I remember he was in favor of setting up a Latin America fund to give assistance to the region with a different, more intensive U.S. presence.

The governments of the region now reflect the nature of their own peoples. Again, as I was saying earlier, presidents have never been so close to their peoples and have never resembled their people as much. So we would like more presence from the U.S. in our region. That's what we would expect from your new president.

MODERATOR: I have a lot more questions, but I will show uncharacteristic restraint and not -- people have raised their hands. Try to keep your questions short.

We'll go to Baldas (sp).

QUESTIONER: Thank you. Baldas (sp) from -- (affiliation inaudible). Madame President, you made a very strong cause for multilateralism. I think many of us here -- (inaudible). I'd be interested in your views about the working U.S.-United Nations -- (inaudible) -- multilateral framework. It seems to be quite broken, oftentimes. (Inaudible.)

MODERATOR: When you get around to Security Council reform, does Argentina believe it deserves a seat on the Security Council?

KIRCHNER: Well, you know, the reform of multilateral organizations, whether multilateral lending agencies or the U.N. itself has been a recurrent topic for Argentina and is something we mention at all U.N. addresses ever since 2003.

I think we need to recreate the core, the heart of the Security Council, primarily because the U.N. -- the Security Council was created in light of the charter of San Francisco in a post-war world in which there was bipolarity. This tension between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, which was the hallmark of the whole second half of the 20th century, right up to the fall of the Berlin Wall, made the Security Council necessary, due to the constant tension in face of the nuclear threats in the world. If someone did something outside this framework, there might be some kind of universal nuclear holocaust.

And that tension, which was always played out within the Security Council with the veto right, enabled more or less acceptable functioning of the body during the second half of the 20th century.

Now, what is the problem? When the Berlin Wall fell and the bipolarity ended, with the U.S. clearly rising above the rest of the world as the leading economic, scientific power, also in terms of its weapons and technology, becoming the absolute number-one world power, that created an imbalance which can no longer be processed within the Security Council, and this is why unilateral policies arise.

You can exercise force unilaterally when there's no other force to counteract and resist you now. This is a principle of physics, but which must also apply to politics. In other words, American unilateralism is a result of its own repositioning as the one and only world power.

But therein lies as well the problem of a possible weakening of someone who is too strong, although this may sound like a contradiction. This is why, in my own view, it is necessary to reengineer the U.N. and essentially the Security Council.

If I were to have a formula as to what the right Security Council would be to guarantee the ballot box, I might be the president of the U.S. and not the other candidates, because that would be finding the way to achieve balance in the 21st century, as was the case with the Security Council to create balance in a highly conflicted world after the Second World War.

But the fact that we need to tackle Security Council reform, that we need to give participation opportunities to the new regional players, is out of the question. We must do that. But we should also bear in mind that this breakage of bipolarity and the emergence of this undisputed power that made the current Security Council no longer as adequate.

Now, knowing that that is a problem doesn't mean that we have a solution. But it is certainly a big step towards finding a solution as part of an open debate and discussion among all countries.

MODERATOR: Yes, ma'am. All the way in the back.

QUESTIONER: Thank you, President Kirchner. Kathy Hicks (sp) with Citizen Rights Watch.

Argentina was recently elected to the U.N. Human Rights Council, a body that's been extremely ineffective at holding human rights abusers to account, in part because of the ability of abusers to say that initiatives are directed from the north. Will Argentina be a voice (of ?) leadership within the council on ongoing crises like those in Georgia, Somalia and Zimbabwe currently?

KIRCHNER: Well, you know that the policy on absolute respect for human rights is one of the basic pillars of our policy and is actually a state policy. Argentina, as you will all know, had one of the most terrible dictatorships in memory, which ended up with 30,000 people disappeared and 500 children who have not yet been found. We have already found 94 children of disappeared persons thanks to the wonderful work of the Mothers of Plaza de Mayo, and tomorrow there will be a ceremony headed by U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon.

Argentina and another 73 countries have signed the Treaty Against Enforced Disappearances, which, by the way, we have given a strong boost to. We are actually, as you pointed out, on the U.N. Human Rights Council. But only four countries have so far ratified the treaty -- Albania, Argentina, Honduras and Mexico. I think over the next few days, the Republic of France will be ratifying it as well.

But the fact is that Argentina's commitment to respect for human rights is -- it's unlimited and unfaltering. And I think we have made quite a lot of progress.

Last year I had a meeting with Ann Arbour in Geneva -- with Louise Arbour in Geneva. And, you know, when talking about the Initiative of the Right to the Truth, which was adopted in the U.N., something that had been encouraged by our country, other countries that hadn't been able to advance, you know, we actually had laws that -- (new ?) obedience and -- (inaudible) -- laws, which prevented prosecution of those responsible for the genocide.

Actually Mrs. Arbour, the human rights commissioner of the U.N., has acknowledged the key role played by Argentina is the field of human rights by leading to the adoption and creation of instruments such as the Right to the Truth or the Treaty on the Enforced Disappearance of Persons, which at least are instruments to fight for human rights in a world in which human rights are violated on a daily basis.

Our commitment -- and I think here again, we may be an example -- we should always be accountable for our actions, and it is true that until the administration of President Nestor Kirchner, impunity had prevailed in Argentina.

We had some pre-democratic issues, as I like to say, because people who commit crimes may evade justice and punishment, but in Argentina, those who had committed genocide evaded punishment and the law, not because they escaped, but because one of the powers -- the legislative -- had enacted laws that afforded impunity, which, as I always say, took us back to a pre-democratic stage in our society. When the state itself institutes, punishes and legislates for impunity, it's a pre-democratic state, you know. So I think that the progress in the field of human rights made in Argentina, which has been recognized around the world, and these instruments I have referred to and any other actions we may undertake will help us along.

Let me give you some more interesting news. We're working on a worldwide genetic database to work on issues of enforced disappearances, something that we are also going to support at the international level. This is something we think all countries should adopt. And we should take concrete steps every day in this unfaltering fight for the observance of human rights.

Thank you for that question, because it gives a chance to tackle an issue which, to my country and due to its own historical experience and to myself personally and due to my political beliefs, represents a policy of state.

Thank you.

MODERATOR: (Inaudible) -- for one more question. Is there a question on Latin America? I specifically want to make sure that we focus on this part of the world. John? Brief question and hopefully a brief answer, and I apologize for taking a few minutes late, but we started a few minutes late.

QUESTIONER: Thank you. I'm John Brademas, a member of the U.S. Congress -- (inaudible). In 1961, I made a trip to Buenos Aires as a member of Congress to look at the state of universities in Argentina, and I've left with your assistant a copy of the report. Can you comment on the -- I was not a senator, I was a congressman). Can you comment on the state of universities in Argentina today and say anything about the possibility of developing relationships with universities in the United States?

KIRCHNER: In 1961 when you visited, I was still very little, so I can't remember your visit. But Argentine universities have substantially improved, just as all of the educational system has improved through greater financing. That was also one of the achievements of the administration of President Nestor Kirchner.

And actually I had to vote as a senator on the bill on education financing, and for the first time we're going to allocate 6 percent of GDP to education. Of course, our GDP's substantially higher than it was at the time the law was first adopted, and now we can approach the issue of education in Argentina in quite a different way.

Universities now have larger projects. The universities and faculty get more money and better pay. We are developing a scholarship system which is aimed at favoring study choices that we consider essential for Argentina's current production model.

Argentina used to be a country with a very strong bias towards social sciences, while leaving aside hard science, which is essential for technological development. This is why we are developing a very intensive scholarship program for our high school students to be able to pursue studies in fields that Argentina needs for its production model, and this also targets low-income families with support from the government. And we are making a very strong point of this policy.

Besides, one of the economic policies that has most grown in Argentina over the last five years has been in the field of technological software and IT and telecommunications companies. Those are the companies with the largest number of birth rates, and they have grown exponentially.

Why is this so? Because our country stands out in Latin America due to its highly qualified human resources. We are the only Latin American country to have three Nobel Prize winners in scientific fields. You can check other Latin American countries and you may find Nobel Prizes for literature, but not for medicine or biology or what we call the strictly scientific world.

You know, the public, free universal education system since the end of the 19th century and the upward social mobility typical of this very substantial middle class places us in a very interesting position in Latin America in terms of the education of our human resources.

MODERATOR: Well, I want to thank President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner for getting us off to such an interesting start this week, one of the first women presidents we've ever been able to welcome a the Council on Foreign Relations. So thank you very much. (Applause.)

Puerto Rico's Arecibo Telescope: The Centerpiece for Space Exploration

2008-09-21T19:48:00.000-04:00

By now you have probably heard of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) which some still believe will kill us all. But there is another project underway called the E-VLBI which stands for "electronic Very Long Baseline Interferometery" or the "we are turning the earth into a radio dish" project.

Essentially the E-VLBI project has every radio observatory on this side of the Earth look at the exact spot in the night sky at the same time. The data then is collected in a series of supercomputers for analysis. The effect is to turn the face of the earth into one single large radio telescope. The result of which will be images 100 times better than ever received either through a radio or optical telescopes.

The project, already underway since May 22, makes the Arecibo Observatory in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, the centerpiece of a united/multinational mission to explore the universe.

If you were the boss, who would you hire?

2008-09-21T12:23:00.004-04:00

Carlos Guzman, a Central Florida businessman and community organizer, sent out this email comparing the qualifications of the Obama/Biden ticket versus the McCain/Palin ticket.

You are The Boss... which team would you hire?

With America facing historic debt, multiple war fronts, stumbling health care, a weakened dollar, all-time high prison population, skyrocketing Federal spending, mortgage crises, bank foreclosures, etc. etc., this is an unusually critical election year. The idea of "leadership" must be broadened from mere "experience" to include knowledge, learnedness and insight.

Let's look at the educational background of your two options:

Obama:
Occidental College - Two years.
Columbia University - B.A. political science with a specialization in international relations.
Harvard - Juris Doctor (J.D.) Magna Cum Laude

Biden:
University of Delaware - B.A. in history and B.A. in political science.
Syracuse University College of Law - Juris Doctor (J.D.)

vs.

McCain:
United States Naval Academy - Class rank 894 of 899

Palin:
Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester
North Idaho College - 2 semesters - general study
University of Idaho - 2 semesters - journalism
Matanuska-Susitna College - 1 semester
University of Idaho - 3 semesters - B.A. in journalism

Now, which team are you going to hire ?

The fact that Mr. Guzman is the owner and operator of various businesses around Central Florida, with vast experience in community organizing, helps to make the point that: All things being equal, if the decision faced by the American people in this election were taken from the proper perspective, the outcome would be obvious.

***UPDATE: Mr. Guzman wants all to know he is not the original author of the email.

Latest Communique from the Zapatista Movement

2008-09-20T20:31:00.003-04:00

COMPAÑERAS Y COMPAÑEROS:

HERMANOS Y HERMANAS:

Aquí está de nuevo nuestra palabra.
Esto vemos, esto miramos.
Esto llega a nuestro oído, a nuestro moreno corazón llega.

I.

Allá arriba pretenden repetir su historia.
Quieren volver a imponernos su calendario de muerte, su geografía de destrucción.
Cuando no nos despojan de nuestras raíces, las destruyen.
El trabajo nos roban, la fuerza.
Nuestros mundos, la tierra, sus aguas y tesoros, sin gente dejan, sin vida.
Las ciudades nos persiguen y expulsan.
Los campos mueren y nos mueren.
Y la mentira se convierte en gobiernos y el despojo arma a sus ejércitos y policías.
En el mundo somos ilegales, indocumentados, indeseados.
Perseguid@s somos.
Mujeres, jóvenes, niños, ancianos mueren en muerte y mueren en vida.
Y allá arriba predican para abajo la resignación, la derrota, la claudicación, el abandono.
Acá abajo nos vamos quedando sin nada.
Sólo rabia.
Dignidad tan sólo.
No hay oído para nuestro dolor como no sea el del que como nosotr@s es.
Nadie somos.
Solos estamos y sólo con nuestra dignidad y con nuestra rabia.
Rabia y dignidad son nuestros puentes, nuestros lenguajes.
Escuchémonos pues, conozcámonos entonces.
Que nuestro coraje crezca y esperanza se haga.
Que la dignidad raíz sea de nuevo y otro mundo nazca.
Hemos visto y escuchado.
Pequeña es nuestra voz para eco ser de esa palabra, nuestra mirada pequeña para tanta y tan digna rabia.
Vernos, mirarnos, hablarnos, escucharnos hace falta.
Otros somos, otras, lo otro.
Si el mundo no tiene lugar para nosotr@s, entonces otro mundo hay que hacer.
Sin más herramienta que la rabia, sin más material que nuestra dignidad.
Falta más encontrarnos, conocernos falta.
Falta lo que falta.

More at Enlace Zapatista

McCain and Zapatero and Foreign Policy

2008-09-18T13:03:00.004-04:00

In an Interview with the Caracol Radio Network, which transmits throughout Latin America and into Spain, McCain faced a series of questions, none of which he answered correctly or intelligently. Here's the Interview.

On Bolivia, McCain's assertion that Bolivia is just like Venezuela and that Evo Morales and Hugo Chavez were the same, shows a level of great ignorance on his behalf. While certainly from a neo-con perspective all them "brown peoples" look the same, from planet earth however Evo Morales is fighting against a fascist right-wing movement that seeks to spit the country in half. Just days ago presidents from throughout Latin America met to discuss the violence that has erupted in the streets. And due to American interference Morales finally resorted to expelling the American ambassador. McCain however has no idea any of this is going on.

On Spain, it is clear that either McCain did not know where Spain is, or did not know who Zapatero is. Either way he should literally slapped for his stupidity. Now, I do not expect everyday Americans to recognize Zapatero, and I have long given up on any American's ability to grasp geography. But if you call yoursel a foreign Policy expert you need to know more than me.

Zapatero is not only President of Spain but former President of the European Union, and Spain is part of the NATO Alliance. Should this not be something a foreign policy expert should know?

Pablo Francisco Standup Comedy

2008-09-16T13:16:00.004-04:00

Chilean-American Pablo Francisco performing in 2006

The Economy: The happy days are gone

2008-09-16T13:04:00.004-04:00

The Real News Network analyzes the economic troubles of the United States and the failure of wall street capitalism.

Mexican Independence Day - "Fiestas Patrias" are here

2008-09-16T12:37:00.003-04:00

In Atlanta

In Chicago

In Colorado

In Delkab, IL

In San Jose, CA

In San Francisco, CA

Obama Waffles

2008-09-14T13:55:00.006-04:00

This is what Republicans call proper political discourse. I mean, in what planet is this appropriate? These Obama Waffles are being sold by Republicans at conventions around the country for $10 each.

Caylee Anthony and the Protesters and the Media

2008-09-14T10:45:00.007-04:00

The case of the missing three-year-old Caylee Anthony has managed to obscure local media coverage of almost everything else in Central Florida. Each of the local television channels has "Special Team Coverage" on the case and everyday there is yet another "shocking" revelation for the media outlets to exploit. If there was ever a ratings grabber for the local news, this is it.

The coverage, however, far from helping has instead inspired the type of mob mentality only last seen during Florida's old days of lynchings and public hangings. Everyday a group of "protesters" stands in front of the Anthony home, calling names and demanding that the Anthony family answer their questions. The situation has at times become violent and even when it is relatively peaceful, it is certainly hostile.

The local news media has in turn taken the demonstrators as another added bonus to their coverage of the events. For the media, this is the opportunity to run the inevitable film of the local village idiot explaining how much they want to "see justice done", with that implied message that if the District Attorney and the police do not ensure justice, they will.

The public expression of beliefs is always positive, I've always said, but the truth is that the underlying principles behind these people's actions in front of the Anthony home has nothing to do with justice.

These are not protesters, this is a mob, bent on their own brand of justice free from the trappings of evidence and due process.

The difference between a "mob" and a protest group is actually quite simple. As an avid protester, and veteran of large and small protests around the country, I can tell you that there is a clear distinction to be drawn between what I and others do and what these local yokels think they are doing.

Protesting is about speaking truth to power. It is about garnering the support of the masses to confront the injustice of the state, the corruption of politicians, and the greed of corporations. Protesting is about garnering enough Davids to topple the Goliaths and shout down the power of Babylon.

But these people standing and screaming in front of the Anthony home are a mob, an unruly group of bully sharks who smell blood in the water and have gathered around to pounce upon their prey. The Anthony's are a recently retired couple, which other than having taken to support their daughter in this mess, have done nothing wrong. The mob in their front yard is nevertheless ready to storm the house with pitchforks and torches in hand all in the name of "justice".

To the credit of the police, they have managed an even handed approach of ensuring the safety of both the Anthony's and their bullies, but things may not remain quite so simple.

Already this case has brought out the freaks of society from disparate search teams driven by God, to bounty hunters looking for fame and fortune, oh and the lawyers. But last night while watching the local NBC affiliate (WESH) the news coverage turned to a woman, who is so convinced that little Caylee is buried in the Anthony's backyard, that she flew down from her home in West Virginia to stand and yell at the Anthony's front door. A trip that cost her $575 according to the interview.

These people are not right in the head. But that's the mob.

Fueled by their belief in their own righteousness and the spectacle of a 'Jerry Springer' atmosphere, they are schoolyard bullies who's highest priority is to make themselves feel good. The fact that the local media treats them like they matter to the outcome of the Caylee Anthony disappearance merely fuels their fire, threatens civil society, and endangers us all.

Pepe Escobar on U.S. VP Candidate Sarah Palin

2008-09-13T18:18:00.003-04:00

Award winning Brazilian journalist and Real News Network correspondent Pepe Escobar breaks down Sarah Palin's views on American foreign policy. This is perhaps the most analytically dead-on deconstruction of Sarah Palin. Watch below:

Puerto Rico Wins Bronze in Paralympic Games

2008-09-13T14:14:00.000-04:00

Her name is Nilda Gomez Lopez (Pictured on the right) and she is Puerto Rico's forgotten star. Her bronze came in the 10m Air Rifle Standing. She beat Libby Kosmala, Australia's favored shooter, for the medal.

The Australian Paralympic Committee reported the battle as follows:

"Libby Kosmala fought a neck-and-neck duel with Puerto Rico’s Nilda Gomez Lopez. Coming into the 10th and final shot, Kosmala had a 0.2 point lead but her score for the shot was 10.1 (out of a possible 10.9). But the Puerto Rican shot 10.4 to beat the Australian veteran by 0.1 with a total of 489.2 points overall to Kosmala’s 489.1."

Speaking with China's Xinhua News Nilda Gomez Lopez said:

"Please forgive me if I am being illogical. I am very, very excited."

Nilda Gomez Lopez, a true Puerto Rican hero and an inspiration to everyone in the island and beyond. We love you Nilda.

Bert & Ernie do M.O.P.'s "Ante Up"

2008-09-12T18:09:00.003-04:00

Here are Bert and Ernie, Sesame Street's Hispanic roommates throwing it down for the 'Hood'. And I bet they would also laugh at Daddy Yankee. Sesame Street votes for Obama!

Barack Obama vs. Bill O'Reilly: The September Interview

2008-09-12T08:33:00.004-04:00

Our Special Insurgent Correspondent Aileen collected these videos from Fox New's Bill O'Reilly's Interview with Barack Obama. Watch Obama as he answers O'Reilly's arguments one by one. Watch it all to see the progression, about 30 minutes total.

Click "READ MORE" to see the other three parts to the interview.

Jessica Alba and Christina Aguilera in Bondage for Your Vote

2008-09-11T20:56:00.005-04:00

Jessica Alba, a.k.a. my future wife, and Christina Aguilera, a.k.a my future wife, posed for celebrated photographers Mark Liddell and David LaChapelle for the Declare Yourself voter registration campaign. The pictures, inspired by bondage-like apparel, are part of an online gallery and an ad campaign to encourage the youth vote in these upcoming elections. Cause nothing says "vote" like a little bondage. (By the way... I do not see a problem with both of them being my future wives)

Fat Joe calls Daddy Yankee a Sell-out, Daddy Yankee Responds

2008-09-11T18:29:00.004-04:00

When Daddy Yankee endorsed John McCain for the Presidency, we laughed and made fun of both, but Fat Joe took the matter a bit more personal calling Daddy Yankee a sell-out.

From an interview with MTV-NEWS we get the following:

"I opened the newspaper and got sick to my stomach," Joe continued. "I felt like I wanted to vomit when I seen that. The reason why I called him a sellout is because I feel he did that for a [publicity] look, rather than the issues that are affecting his people that look up to him. How could you want John McCain in office when George Bush and the Republicans already have half a million people losing their homes in foreclosure? We're fighting an unjust war. It's the Latinos and black kids up in the frontlines, fighting that war. ... We over here trying to take the troops out of Iraq and bring peace. This guy immediately wants war. If not with Iraq or Afghanistan, he'll start a new one with Iran. I feel real disgusted that Daddy Yankee would do that. Either he did that for a look, or he's just not educated on politics."

Daddy Yankee, at first did not respond, his publicist claiming he was unreachable outside the country (don't you just hate when that happens).

However, Daddy Yankee has now just responded:

"McCain is the kind of man whose promises you can actually believe in. I'll support him till the end. I don't care who I piss off. This is about my ideals, not about making friends."

Daddy Yankee, who has resented that Calle 13 is considered the more intellectual artist in his genre, to his credit has tried to be more political lately but for someone who brags of growing up in the ghetto, his knowledge of politics and everyday issues seems to dwindle with every million he makes.

Hispanic Republicans out-of-touch with real Latinos

2008-09-11T17:17:00.006-04:00

If anyone ever doubted how out of touch the Republican Party is with the issues affecting Latinos across the country, they need only visit the website for the Republican National Hispanic Assembly (or RNHA for the hipsters).

Apparently, there is only one issue we Latinos care about according to the GOP and that's the passing of the Colombia Free Trade Agreement. Funny how in all my sleepless nights that never crossed my mind. Here I was thinking about the shrinking job market, rising unemployment, failing schools, police brutality, immigration laws, and my friends and family fighting in Iraq. Thanks to the Republicans now I know that all the issues I thought were important were just foolish. After all, if they say so, they must be right, I should only care about the Colombian Free Trade Agreement. Thanks G.O.P. for setting us dumb Latinos on the right path.

Here's a close-up:

Oh, in case you are wondering who these Republicans are who are so in touch with our needs here are the names of the members of the RNHA Advisory Board (its like a who's who of mediocrity and bad ideas):

George Allen
Former US Senator and VA Governor

Michael Barrera
Former Ombudsman, SBA

Victor Cabral
Senior Counsel, NBC/Telemundo

Roger Campos
President, Minority Business Round Table

Al Cardenas
Former Chairman, Republican Party of Florida

Linda Chavez
Chairman, Center for Equal Opportunity

Rita Dimartino
Former VP, Congressional Relations for AT&T

Ron Ebensteiner
Former Chairman, Republican Party of Minnesota

Luis Fortuño
US Congressman, Puerto Rico

Esperanza Guerrero-Anderson
President, Guerrero-Anderson, Inc.

Orin Hatch
U.S. Senator – Utah

Kay Bailey Hutchison
U.S. Senator - Texas

Tony Jimenez
President, MicroTech, LLC

Carol Jean Jordan
Former Chairman, Republican Party of Florida

Mel Martinez
U.S. Senator - Florida

Grover Norquist
President, Americans for Tax Reform

Henry Ramirez
Former Nixon White House Official

David Rivera
Florida State Representative

Marco Rubio
Speaker of the House, Florida

Michael Steele
Chairman, GOPAC

Massey Villarreal
Former Chairman, RNHA and USHCC

Juan Zapata
Florida State Representative

Gee, I almost expected Alberto Gonzalez on the list, I guess they have standards.

John McCain a Famous Panamanian

2008-09-11T16:29:00.002-04:00

So after receiving a tip from a friend, I checked Wikipedia's "List of famous Panamanians". And... wow... If only Republican knew they were supporting the first Hispanic President of the United States... LOLZ all around!!!

Yeah, we all know the story. He was born in the canal zone, his father was stationed there, he is eligible for the presidency because they say he is. Still, its funny.

Puerto Rico Islanders Help Haitian Storm Victims

2008-09-11T15:38:00.002-04:00

Just Received this communication from the Puerto Rico Islanders, Puerto Rico's soccer team. The team will begin accepting donation on behalf of Haiti's flood victims. Haiti has been especially battered by the recent run of tropical storms with almost a hundred dead and many more homeless. To help out you can make a donation through First Bank in Puerto Rico by donating a few dollars into account #018002554. The account name is "Ayuda de los Islanders a Haiti" (Help from the Islanders to Haiti).

Here is the original communication in Spanish:

"Los Puerto Rico Islanders se unen con First Bank para ayudar a Haiti, tras ser devastado por tres tormentas tropicales en las pasadas semanas. Nos motiva el que dos de nuestros jugadores, Fabrice Noel y James Marcelin, son de origen haitiano y reconocemos la necesidad de su país en este momento tan difícil. Si desean cooperar con esta causa pueden depositar su donativo en la cuenta # 018002554 de First Bank llamada “Ayuda de los Islanders a Haití” o llevar su donativo al Estadio Juan Ramón Loubriel de Bayamón durante los partidos del 16 y 19 de septiembre. Contamos con su ayuda, nuestro vecino Haití nos necesita."

Racism in the Elevator

2008-09-11T12:49:00.001-04:00

I think Palin is pronounced "stoo-pid"...yes, yes it is.

2008-09-10T13:41:00.014-04:00

I was SGA President of my High School, so I guess that makes me like the Mayor of a small town in Alaska, except I had a higher population and a bigger budget.

VOTE OBAMA...

*I wasn't actually the president of my High School, I was Secretary of Defense .

Palin, McCain, Giuliani continue to insult: Community Organizers Unite

2008-09-04T23:44:00.003-04:00

I am a community organizer, and so are many of my closest friends. We have built houses for people, found jobs for people, advocated on their behalf before government bodies. We have done more to benefit people in Central Florida than any career politician has ever done. To denigrate the work of community organizers is to insult the backbone of every non-profit, every church, and every public school across the country.

I expect that this display of sheer ignorance by the McCain/Palin campaign will stick with every one who has ever worked directly with their local communities.

If you are a community organizer send a donation to the Obama campaign A.S.A.P. I already did. www.barackobama.com Give them a dollar at least.

War Against Iran: Update

2008-09-03T14:47:00.004-04:00

Yesterday's post entitled: WAR ON IRAN: IMMINENT was a speculative piece based on little more than personal opinion. Today, however, I stand much more firmly on that idea as the former US Ambassador to the UN John Bolton discusses the policy towards Iran. At about 1:22 into the video Bolton is asked about the right policy and he answers:

"...If there is any possibility of the use of force by Israel before the next President takes office..."

Here is the video:

When Bolton speaks of the the next President taking office it is not clear whether they are referring to the November election or the January inauguration. Politically the former would be more useful to the neo-conservative agenda. We will be watching.

WAR AGAINST IRAN IMMINENT

2008-09-02T16:57:00.006-04:00

As the Republican house of card begins tumbling down, the likely "October Surprise" is an attack on Iranian soil by the United States or Israel. Granted, this is speculation, but speculation based on a number of salient truths.

1) A foreign policy incident, as bad as American foreign policy has been managed by the Bush Administration, is still the best argument for a John McCain Presidency.

2) There are only about 60 days left until the November 4th Presidential election and John McCain still has not unified his party behind him.

3) The neo-conservative agenda was once delayed for eight years by Bill Clinton's Presidency, and Obama threatens another eight year pause in those plans.

4) The Bush Administration has no qualms about starting a war without provocation.

5) The Bush Administration sees itself as beyond accountability or responsibility.

6) Iran has been played up as a national security threat for almost eight years now (remember the Axis of Evil).

7) Few will shed a tear for Iran. In fact many Americans too ignorant to know better will think its a good idea.

8) An attack on Iran places Sen. Obama in a difficult position of having to support the attack even if he disagrees with it.

9) Provides the administration with almost complete control of the subsequent news cycles leading up to the election.

10) FOX NEWS gets to run anti-muslim/pro-America specials and call all democrats traitors. Reigniting the "I'm-more-patriotic-than-you-debate" for Sen. McCain.

Counting back from November 4th, the attack would have to take place before early voting begins, or at least before early voting crests. But the attack must begin after the Republican Convention. So sometime between the second week in September and the second week in October.

If I were Karl Rove this attack on Iran would take place shortly before the first debate which is scheduled for September 26 at the University of Mississippi. That first debate is themed upon domestic policy an area where McCain has proven to be at a gross disadvantage. Doing so will force a discussion on foreign affairs by allowing McCain to refer to Iran and divert the conversation away from domestic issues.

Which means that said attack would best be scheduled for the beginning of that week probably on monday September 22 or there abouts.

Anyone who doubts the machiavellian capacity of the Bush administration to carry this out has not been around for the past eight years.

** Cartoon by Mike Keefe of the Denver Post

Mercenaries 2 Spreads Bush Propaganda

2008-09-02T16:48:00.000-04:00

Released on August 31, Mercenaries 2: World in Flames is easily dismissed as just the latest incarnation in a long list of shoot'em-up games released in the last decade, but this game is different. While previous such games usually focus on such traditional "enemies" as the Nazies, Communists, and non-descript muslims, Mercenaries 2 takes aim at a democratically elected government of Venezuela.

The game's synopsis from Wikipedia describes the plot:

The story follows the player's hunt for Ramon Solano, a large political figure who contracts the player's mercenary for a job then subsequently refuses to pay and tries to kill him/her. Following a militaristic coup, Solano becomes the dictator of Venezuela. He uses his position to seize control of the country's oil supply, resulting in an international incident and distress among OPEC. Alongside Solano's Rebel Forces, a large portion of the Venezuelan army fiercely supports the dictator's cause.

Simply by changing the name of Ramon Solano to Hugo Chavez, you have basically described the Bush Administration's perception of Venezuela.

This could also be dismissed as just the work of a game developer taking cues from recent headlines. However, that would be easier to do if the game developer was not also a defense contractor for the Pentagon. Pandemic Studios, the developer of Mercenaries 2 has responded to the alegation by releasing this statement: "Pandemic Studios is in the business of entertainment. It has not been contacted by a U.S. government agency concerning the development of Mercenaries 2. All persons, storylines and events are purely fictional and bear no relation to real events. As with any number of games, movies and books, the decision to choose interesting events and locations is purely designed to tell a compelling story, as well as provide a fun and rich experience for the gamer."

Which would be highly believable if this were not the same studio that produced, Full Spectrum Warrior, a training simulation for the U.S. Army released commercially in 2004.

Overall, there's no real conspiracy here. As shoot'em-ups go the fan base doesn't care who they get to shoot as long as it looks cool. So the propaganda is nullified by the nature of its primary target audience.

But I wonder how it would be received in the US if other countries began making games promoting the destruction of the American Government and the assassination of its president. Somehow I don't think it would be so easily dismissed.

Here's the game's trailer:

RNC Protest: MASS ARRESTS [VIDEO]

2008-09-02T14:26:00.003-04:00

St. Paul Police have begun arresting protesters and journalists.

OFFICIALLY THERE ARE NO CIVIL RIGHTS LEFT IN ST. PAUL.

The End of American Hegemony

2008-09-02T13:38:00.000-04:00

Some have called the 20th century the "American Century". Others, recalling the height of the Roman Empire, have been so bold as to claim the past 50 years or so as the period of "Pax Americana". To be fair these names are justified from a limited perspective only, but are ultimately inaccurate. The last century was certainly a period of great American influence and power, capped in its last decade by the emergence of United States as the only global superpower and for a period of time political scientists even began referring to the US as a "hyper-power", a new nomenclature invented to better describe the seemingly unparalleled, and unopposed stature of the United States among the nations of the world. No matter the terminology, all such characterizations implied the establishment of a unipolar world centered on the United States.

The sustainability of a unipolar world, however, has always proven to be elusive. As Great Britain found out in the early decades of the 20th century, as Spain found out in the 17th century, and as Rome, Greece, Persia, and Babylon before them found out, the dream of a unipolar world is at best unstable and seemingly increasingly so as time passes and the world shrinks around us.

Certainly, things have changed in many ways for the better, a situation Americanists are quick to attribute to the influence of American mores and political institutions. We can spend quite a bit of time debating this, and surely it will be debated with much fierceness in the coming decades. It does seem nevertheless that the greatest claim to success in the modern era is the relative peace and willingness for cooperation found among nations today.

While conflicts still rage across many parts of the world the nature of such conflicts is better describe as domestic power struggles among ideological opposites, revolutionary uprisings against post-colonial regimes, or nationalist struggles for self-determination and sovereignty. But military conflicts focused upon territorial gain, border disputes, the redress of past wrongs, or based upon economic self interests have remarkably disappeared from the strategic dosier of foreign nations. Only the United States it appears continues to hold the perspective that "might makes right" in the 21st century.

The perception of the world as it is carried forward by Americans stands in contrast to reality. Where others see the hopes of political and social progress, the United States sees a sea of troubles.

The truth however is that Europe, perhaps the bloodiest continent in recorded history, now stands almost entirely peaceful, economically unified, and politically stable.

Africa, is gradually, albeit slowly, settling into stable relations among its countries. The African Union is beginning the process of economic and political consolidation, while countries like Nigeria and South Africa settled into the roles of regional leadership.

Among the East Asian countries prosperity is largely due to the recognition, acceptance, and nominal respect towards each other. While China, Japan, and Korea stand historically as mutual enemies, more is being accomplished on a day to day basis through regional cooperation than at any point before. All in spite of the clear differences towards democracy and capitalism.

Likewise in Latin America, despite the American media's portrayal, events are moving closer towards a regional union and a shared economy. Not surprisingly the only points of real contention among these nations is directly related to their individual relationship with the United States, a source of friction which is felt less year after year.

The world is undoubtedly moving towards a global government, a confederacy of nations with equal representation, and this is seen as a positive step for world peace. Regional bodies electing rotating presidencies and adopting regional currencies, all positive signs. In all corners of the globe this developing tide moves forward at an unprecedented pace. Meanwhile the United States seems stuck in the muck of warfare and international double-dealings, and stands as the only country where the thought of a global government is seen as a negative outcome.

But at some point in the near future the people of the United States will realize that the world no longer cares for the American perspective and that day comes closer every day. In a country where its people are so self-assured of their privileged perspective to a point of blindness towards the other worldly perspective, the point of awakening will be a rude one.

So what happens to a people convinced of a false truth when the veil is lifted from their eyes? What will happen when the world's leadership shifts into the hands of another country or more likely into an international grouping of nations? What will the day look like when Americans realize they are no longer the hegemonic superpower?

The world will continue with or without the United States, but the United States will need the world to continue. If things remain as is, if Americans cannot or will not accept the changes happening around the world, if the political leadership of this nation doesn't begin to lead the country in the right direction, you can be sure that in those coming days the America so enshrined by popular history, will give way to the America of our worst nightmares.

RNC Protest: Direct Action on the streets of St. Paul [Videos]

2008-09-01T17:28:00.004-04:00

RNC Protests: Police harassment continues

2008-09-01T08:00:00.001-04:00

Gustav Hits Cuba [Video]

2008-08-31T23:32:00.002-04:00

Hurricane Gustav hit Cuba as a category five before quickly dropping back to category four. This Associated Press Video shows the damage left by Gustav. So far 81 people have died across the Caribbean, no deaths were recorded in the Caymans or in Cuba. Our best goes out to all lifting themselves from the rubble. Stay safe.

Where's McCain's Hispanic Strategy?

2008-08-31T20:32:00.004-04:00

Senator McCain, you may know him as "Maverick" though there is no relation to Tom Cruise's character in Top Gun, missed a prime opportunity to really earn the title. With the electorate leaning towards Senator Barack Obama, McCain could have made a play for the other brown meat of the Democratic Party, Hispanics.

SO WHAT HAPPENED?
First of all, there are virtually no nationally recognized Republican Hispanics eligible for the Vice Presidential position, considering they must be born in the U.S. Of the 26 Hispanics in Congress (24 in the House, 2 in the Senate) only five of them are Republicans. Of those, only 2 are natural born citizens.

One is Luis Fortuño, who is technically eligible, but as the Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico and a resident of the same has never voted in Congress or as far as I could tell for any American election. Not exactly what you might want in a Vice President.

The other is Mario Diaz-Balart the Congressman from Florida - born in Fort Lauderdale and therefore eligible - also known as the most right-wing of all Hispanic members of Congress. The kind of right-winger that only the most affluent Cuban-Americans can appreciate, the kind of guy who believes everyone who disagrees with him is working for Fidel Castro. However, all that is a plus on the Republican scales of worthiness.

So given that George W. Bush made such historic strides into the Hispanic community, at times reported as having won 40% of the Hispanic vote, and with Republican support among Hispanics now hovering lower than 20%, why would McCain not choose someone to help him split the Hispanic vote like Bush did in 2004? With such a close race against Senator Obama and with Florida in play, why would he not be the "maverick" and name Mario Diaz-Balart as his running mate?

Well, here's the rub. McCain definitely wants the Hispanic vote and will surely continue to pander about for it, but he cannot afford to lose the right-wing vote while he's pandering some more. Specially if you consider that he might be asking those voters to support a Hispanic Vice President who may become President as soon as McCain dies. Not that he would die in office, at least not right away, but we all must admit that it is a consideration. How would right-wing America motivated by xenophobic anti-Hispanic sentiments react to such a consideration?

You might just as well hand over the Republican Party to Ron Paul and his backwards revolution. Ron Paul of course is the non-candidate/candidate most likely to declare war on Mexico faster than on Iran.

Basically to summarize, there is no Hispanic strategy, only "un aguaje" like we say in Puerto Rico**.

Meanwhile, Republicans are trying to spin Sarah Palin as a "maverick" choice, since she's a political dark horse. But how "maverick" was it really to choose an evangelical, anti-abortion, creationist, lifetime-NRA member, pro-oil, anti-environment Republican. If anything he's chosen exactly what the Christian right hoped he would choose, other than the fact that she's a political nobody, she's a safe bet for the hearts and minds of the conservative right.

So here's my final question... at what point does McCain bend-over enough for the Christian-right, that we may stop calling him a "maverick"?

**"aguaje" = faking it.

Gilberto Rincón Gallardo's death - a loss to the world

2008-08-31T16:48:00.007-04:00

Gilberto Rincón Gallardo died yesterday August 30th in Mexico City at the age of 69 from cardiopulmonary complications. He was a fighter for social progress who confronted corporations and government for a more just civil society. Rincón Gallardo fought for the rights of indigenous peoples, advocated for the poor, women, and homosexuals. In 2000 he ran for the Presidency under the social democratic party and was instrumental in making social justice a primary concern of Mexican politics throughout the last decade. Gilberto Rincón Gallardo will be missed by many who were inspired and especially by those directly helped by his commitment for a better, more just Mexico.

The following is one of his essays in spanish entitled Culture and Discrimination:

Discriminación y Cultura
by Gilberto Rincón Gallardo

Generalmente cuando se aborda el problema de la discriminación se piensa en la negación de derechos y oportunidades que padecen grupos sociales estigmatizados y con la cual queda bloqueado, en buena medida, su acceso a los sistemas educativo, de salud y laboral, que son fundamentales para el desarrollo y la calidad de vida de cualquier persona. El problema de la discriminación, sin embargo, tiene otras facetas, como veremos en las siguientes líneas.

Negar a alguien un derecho o darle un trato indigno no se puede atribuir a un mero capricho, ya que más bien forma parte de toda una manera de comportarse ante los demás y, en general, de ver el mundo. En esa perspectiva, la discriminación es, en parte, un problema de cultura; incluso podría hablarse de la existencia de una cultura de la discriminación que ha estado muy arraigada durante siglos, si por cultura entendemos un conjunto de costumbres, valores y creencias que se manifiestan en la vida cotidiana de un pueblo. Es usual que todavía en nuestros días muchos consideren que las mujeres deberían quedarse atendiendo su casa y a sus hijos, que los adultos mayores y las personas con discapacidad son una carga o son inútiles, que los indígenas son flojos y sucios, o que quienes tienen alguna creencia religiosa distinta a la hegemónica pertenecen a una secta y son peligrosos. Todo lo anterior forma parte de una manera de entender el mundo que provoca múltiples injusticias en la vida de millones de personas. Se comienza con expresiones ofensivas, convirtiendo el lenguaje en un instrumento discriminatorio, y se pasa a acciones más contundentes que incluso terminan generando hechos violentos que ponen en peligro la vida misma de las personas afectadas por este fenómeno social tan grave. Por eso, cuando se toca el tema del combate a la discriminación se plantea la necesidad de crear una nueva cultura de la igualdad.

La creación de dicha cultura pasa, entre otras cosas, por una ardua labor educativa, informativa y de sensibilización de la sociedad, cuyo objetivo es la eliminación de estereotipos y prejuicios que conducen tanto a la violación de derechos y libertades de individuos y grupos sociales, como a darles tratos que van en contra de su dignidad, sea por motivos de condición socioeconómica, edad, género, discapacidad, creencias religiosas, preferencias sexuales u origen étnico o nacional.

Se trata de crear una cultura que abra horizontes nuevos a toda la sociedad, y esto es un punto esencial si pretendemos hacer frente a la discriminación. Una cultura que tenga como base el conocimiento y la valoración de modos de vida y pensamiento diversos, lo cual contribuiría a asumir actitudes de respeto y tolerancia hacia quienes son distintos y a lo largo de la historia han sido estigmatizados y marginados. Una transformación cultural, pues, que promueva relaciones sociales realmente equitativas e incluyentes y que tenga como fundamento el respeto a la dignidad de todas las personas.

En esta cambio de carácter cultural no puede perderse de vista la situación del mundo, sobre todo ahora que no faltan quienes difunden ciertas ideas sobre un conflicto entre civilizaciones -con claros tintes racistas- y que buscan a toda costa avivar el odio entre pueblos y sobajar y someter a quienes no son ni piensan como ellos, provocando violencia o desatando guerras de conquista en que la población civil es la que invariablemente sufre todo clase de atrocidades.

De ahí que el asunto no le resulte ajeno a quienes están inmersos en el mundo del arte y las actividades culturales, que, ante todo, son expresión del espíritu humano, cuya diversidad es esencial para toda sociedad libre.

*Presidente del Consejo Nacional para Prevenir la Discriminación (CONAPRED)
---Gilberto Rincón Gallardo

RNC Protests: Minneapolis-St. Paul the new police state

2008-08-31T16:01:00.007-04:00

Minneapolis-St. Paul Police have begun a series of raids and detentions against the affectionately named "RNC Welcoming Committee". The group is actually a conglomeration of activists from around the country calling for an end to the war in Iraq and the loss of constitutional protections. The irony of it all is that the real criminals are the ones gathering inside the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. Here are videos of the raids and the activists whom are being targeted:

McCain picks Palin: Insults entire American nation

2008-08-31T10:48:00.000-04:00

Sarah Palin is now John McCain's running mate. Sarah Palin is Alaska's freshman governor with only 20 months in office. Prior to that she was the mayor of Wasilli, a town of 6,000 people. And prior to that she was Miss Wasilli the runner-up for Miss Alaska. She has 5 children, and she believes that killing animals is fun, wearing fur is fashionable, and saving the environment is akin to a waste of space.

She also believes that creationism is science, and that evolution is the religion of others. That is even more surprising given that she has a son with Trisomy 21 (a.k.a Down Syndrome) which is a genetic disease. But then again, there is very strong speculation that that son is actually her daughter's son which she is passing off as her own to maintain an idyllic family values image. But that is now just speculation.

She is also an anti-abortion advocate, which with five kids I wouldn't expect anything different. But she is a far-right advocate of no abortions no matter what. No exceptions for rape, incest, or health risks to the mother. On this issue she is an ideologue with little civil or policy sense. She's essentially a heartbeat away from throwing pregnant women into jails to make sure they go through labor even if its a 9-year-old raped by her father, or a 40-year-old in danger of dying in labor.

She claims to be "pro-contraception" though there is very little evidence she has ever used it. At least we know of five distinct times when she did not use it.

She is pro oil even as she claims to have stood up to the oil companies.

Finally, she is NOT Hillary Clinton.

I am a strong advocate of Ms. Clinton, even if I chose to support Barack Obama. But my support for Obama came from my want for a fresh start for the party. I rejected Hillary's campaign just as I would have rejected Ted Kennedy or Al Gore had they campaigned for the Presidency, and just as I did reject Edwards, Dodd, and Biden, during the primaries. But nobody, NOBODY, can take away from us who Hillary Clinton is, the best advocate for health-care, unions, and working families.

But Sarah Palin is not Hillary Clinton, She isn't even Laura Bush.

Sarah Palin is a gimmick. A news cycle oddity. A distraction at best, a disaster at worst for the Republican Party.

If the McCain campaign chose her, a complete unknown and after meeting her only once, it is because she fits neatly into an election year strategy. One that targets women motivated by Hillary Clinton's campaign, and equally placates the evangelical crowd.

But putting God first has always meant putting women last in American politics. Palin is a clear example of this.

Even if she was as qualified as Condoleezza Rice, the whole women-have-no-right-to-their-bodies thing would anger most women, and many men.

As a Masculine American I am upset that Palin is anti-abortion, but especially in cases of rape and incest. How utterly heartless and irresponsible do you have to be to tell women that they cannot have an abortion after being raped. Or tell me that my wife, girlfriend, or daughter must carry to term the baby of a rapist. Do you have any idea, Ms. Palin what that does to a woman already traumatized by rape? What it does to a family? No, of course not, because that's what happens when you live in an extremely conservative state where most people are the same religion and live 100 miles from each other. You forget to care for others.

But Palin is more than an insult to women's rights, she is the latest embodiment of the disdain for the intelligence of the American Voter constantly exhibited by the McCain Campaign.

For months the McCain campaign has made an issue of Obama's supposed inexperience and youth, but instead they chose someone less experienced to complete McCain's ticket. And let there be no doubt, if elected he is going to die of old age in office.

When Obama chose Biden as his running mate, McCain blasted the decision saying that Obama was disregarding the will of 18 million Democrats who voted for Hillary. And yet he disregards all republican primary voters by not even choosing one of the other primary contenders. Again there's that streak of hypocrisy, accusing Obama of something which he then exemplifies himself.

If the respective political campaigns are any measure of the readiness of the candidates for the office of the Presidency, these most recent antics of McCain compounded by the campaign's behavior during the past six months, leaves little doubt that his potential effectiveness as an administrator and executive of the nation will leave much to be desired and a nation in peril. For now, its just a nation insulted.

Che: El Argentino [Film Trailer]

2008-08-30T17:35:00.001-04:00

Che: El Argentino [Poster & Scenes]

2008-08-30T17:29:00.002-04:00

Required Reading: Puerto Rico by Jose Trias Monge

2008-08-30T01:14:00.004-04:00

Jose Trias Monge's Puerto Rico is a perfect primer to anyone who wants to truly understand the status problem of the world's oldest colony. As a historian, legislator and career politician Trias Monge's perspective was of great curiosity to me for its lack of the dogmatic approach typical of political figures, which made it into an unexpected interesting read. He takes an academic, almost purely intellectual, look at the choice before the Puerto Rican electorate and the natural gridlock that has resulted. Interestingly, putting aside his political affiliation, the book shockingly comes close to arguing for Puerto Rican independence. Check it out, it's a quick read at 240 pages and you'll appreciate every page.

Bill Richardson at the DNC

2008-08-28T22:26:00.000-04:00

Here is Bill Richardson's Speech at Invesco Field in Denver, Colorado on the final night of the Democratic Convention.

Daddy Yankee wants McCain to be his Big Boss

2008-08-28T17:11:00.001-04:00

After being told that Daddy Yankee had "endorsed" McCain by my girlfriend I had to quickly go to YouTube to see the video. Sheer laughter followed. There are so many layers of wrong going on that the brain needs to slooooooow down to fully appreciate the magnitude of it all.

The idea behind getting Daddy Yankee’s “endorsement” is to buy; oops I mean win over Latino support for McCain aka Grumpy Bush. The idea is a simple one: get someone those people like to support us so that we won’t have to do anything to win them over.

Reform the immigration laws? Look I have a picture with Oscar De La Hoya.

Puerto Rico is still a colony? Look everyone I’m dancing with J-Lo!

I can only wait for the Iris Chacon endorsement of McCain come October! Sorry, but we recognized your hustle a while back and that wont work with us.

Neither the Democrats nor the Republicans have a stronghold within the “Latino” community. Although traditionally the stereotype goes that Cuban-Americans (read: Miami's Cuban population) votes Republican, and Puerto Ricans (read: New York City's Puerto Rican population) vote Democratic.

These stereotypes and realities however hold more weight with the previous generations. The majority of the 18-28 year olds don’t hold any allegiance to a particular party. That isn’t to say they aren’t politically engaged and active. Most young people recognize the wealth of their own communities and working towards ensuring their capacities are challenged by developing their own organizations rather than turning to outdated organizations or political parties.

Getting back to Daddy Yankee, someone please inform him that as a resident of Puerto Rico he can’t vote for the president! Puerto Rico’s colonial status makes its residents eligible to die in American wars but incapable of voting for the President or congressperson who votes for it.

In the end this orgy of stupidity will be forgotten. Daddy Yankee will continue his career to some degree or another, although he will certainly take an L for this. McCain will continue to grow older.

And older.

And older.

Holding firmly to his misguided vision of the direction the United Stated need to head.

One more thing; what was up with Daddy Yankee’s hair? Daddy Yankee, my niggs, you’re Puerto Rican, get a tape up!

Update: Politico.com is reporting that Daddy Yankee first approached the Obama campaign but was rejected due to the content of his lyrics and his police record.

Nydia Velazquez speaks at DNC

2008-08-28T09:30:00.000-04:00

The Puerto Rican Congresswoman from New York took the floor at the DNC and laid out her support for Obama. Probably, out of the many who have spoken at the DNC, hers is a better performance than most. However in the back of my mind I find it a little difficult to see her as a strong Obama supporter given her adamant support for Hillary Clinton's campaign. Nevertheless, she is the definition of a fighter and there is much respect for her across the party. She may soon become a leader within the party, which may open the door for some national recognition, maybe. All in all, she's easily one of the most influencial Puerto Rican voices in American politics.

Joe Baca of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus at the DNC [Video]

2008-08-28T08:45:00.001-04:00

This speech is perhaps as forgettable as your last drink of water. Hispanic Congressman Joe Baca looks nervous and seems to be a little rattled by the teleprompter. The fact that he mispronounces Obama's name as "Orama" was a little disappointing, though he is probably the most disappointed of all. In all, it's good that he got the floor to express his support and the support of the Caucus for the Obama/Biden ticket.

Haiti under Hurricane Gustav [Video]

2008-08-27T12:52:00.004-04:00

Video from the Associated Press shows Hurricane Gustav's landfall upon the nation of Haiti. The storm threatens Cuba, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands. A Hurricane Warning has already been issued in Cuba.

Evo Morales fights peacefully for the future of Bolivia

2008-08-27T01:19:00.005-04:00

Last week's popular referendum in Bolivia was a resounding victory for the administration of Evo Morales, who's pro-poor & pro-equal rights policies have angered the landed elite. While the referendum should have put to an end the hopes of the landed class opposition, it seems to have instead made them more brazen in their demands for full control of the resources and wealth of one of the poorest nations in the hemisphere. The people of Bolivia have spoken, but the wealthy land-owners will have their way no matter what. President Morales however refuses to be drawn into violent confrontations.

The Real News reports on the situation:

Denver's First Latino Mayor Federico Peña speaks at Democratic National Convention

2008-08-27T00:41:00.003-04:00

About Federico Peña: Born in Laredo, Texas, Peña earned a B.A. (1969) and a J.D. (1972) from the University of Texas at Austin and The University of Texas School of Law. Moving to Colorado, where he became a practicing attorney, Peña was elected to the Colorado House of Representatives as a Democrat in 1979, where he rose to become Minority Leader. In 1983, Peña defeated a 14-year incumbent, William H. McNichols, Jr. to become the first Hispanic Mayor of Denver, a post to which he was re-elected in 1987.

Peña advised Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton on transportation issues during Clinton's successful 1992 presidential campaign, and Clinton chose Peña to head the United States Department of Transportation. Although he had intended to leave Clinton's cabinet after a single term, Peña also served as Secretary of Energy for one year, from 1997 to 1998.

Information from Wikipedia

COHA: Mexican Drug War Escalates

2008-08-26T18:04:00.005-04:00

Reprinted from the Council on Hemispheric Affairs article "Searching for solutions to Mexico's skyrocketing violence"

On August 21, Mexican President Felipe Calderón Hinojosa held a security summit at the National Palace. In attendance were the Mayor of Mexico City, Marcelo Ebrard, and Mexico’s thirty-one state governors. Those in attendance, represented most of the nation’s political parties, were still able to display a stunning show of relative harmony and cooperation in the face of dangerously mounting violence brought about by growing street gangs and more violent drug cartels throughout Mexico. A seventy-five-point package of security measures was unanimously adopted and will be implemented over the next three years. The package includes initiatives aimed at purging police corruption, constructing several new maximum-security prisons, and creating a database for mobile phones that the government will use to track down criminals using them.

Violence Everywhere
The unprecedented level of violence resorted to by Mexico’s drug gangs has reached a fevered pitch. On August 16, masked gunmen murdered thirteen people in a village in Chihuahua, a state that has witnessed 1,026 deaths so far this year. The number of gang-related deaths for all of Mexico so far this year stands at 2,682, already surpassing the 2007 total of 2,673. The escalating violence represents an ugly offensive by Mexican drug gangs retaliating against the government’s increased determination to combat drug trafficking and the drug-related violence that has plagued the country in recent years. Since 2007, Calderón has ordered 36,000 troops to be deployed against the gangs throughout Mexico’s thirty-one states, with only modest results.

Complicating the situation, Mexico’s various police forces are saturated with corruption, and its tolerance of violence, systemic. Various drug cartels have taken advantage of this, bribing the authorities – particularly the intelligence service – to side with them by waging war on their rivals. According to a congressional Research Service Report, authorities in Nuevo Laredo municipal officials have been known to kidnap competitors of the Gulf cartel, while members of the Sinaloa cartel enjoy police protection. According to the same report, in December 2005, the Mexican Attorney General’s office (PGR) reported that one-fifth of its officials were under investigation for criminal activity. This culture of corruption was starkly revealed by the Fernando Martí case, where a fourteen-year-old boy was kidnapped last June 4 by drug gang members masquerading as policemen. His body was found on August 1 in the trunk of an abandoned car. Subsequent investigation uncovered the involvement of fourteen members of the Federal District Judicial Police in the killing.

No Respite from the War’s Escalation
The chronic lack of integrity displayed by the police has further weakened Mexicans’ plummeting confidence in their government’s ability to cope with drug gangs. A poll taken in early June showed that 53 percent of the population believed that drug gangs were winning their war against federal forces, while a mere 24 percent thought that the government had the matter under control. Some 3,000 people from Ciudad Juárez - of mostly middle-class families – crossing illegally into the United States, do so out of fear of violence. Particularly hard hit by gang violence, Ciudad Juárez has registered 800 homicides so far this year—tripling the 2007 figure—as well as a spurt of bank and car robberies. The University of San Diego’s Trans-Border Institute recently reported that there has also been an increase in acts of extortion and kidnappings that have specifically targeted the business community.

In spite of Calderón’s intensified war against Mexico’s drug barons and the early phase in the implementation of Washington’s predictably under-funded Merida Initiative, the death toll continues to mount and there is no indication that the future will be any brighter than the past. This spotlights the inherent problems embedded in the Mexican government’s strategy, such as unrestrained venality in the police force as well as in the tainted bureaucracies at the municipal, state, and federal levels. On July 31, the government announced a shake-up in the PGR, with the departure of Noé Ramírez, the head of Mexico’s secret anti-organized-crime unit, Siedo, and three of the PGR’s deputy attorneys. This announcement followed a meeting during which the head of the PGR, Eduardo Medina-Mora, and public security minister, Genaro García Luna, blamed each other for their inability to coordinate and harness their respective intelligence-gathering units. This manifestation of ineptitude reinforced the need for Calderón’s call for the government to agree on public security policies and to improve coordination among the federal, state and municipal administrations in order to advance the nation’s uphill fight against crime.

A united campaign against the drug gangs, this time with Calderón and Ebrard de facto at the helm, has been necessary for a long time, but may be too much to ask for, especially amid the current escalating levels of violence with its skyrocketing death tolls reported from many Mexican cities. A coordinated and innovative bipartisan approach on the part of all government levels, rather than any further militarization, or going easy on the purveyor of crime, may prove to be the ultimate key to stemming the country’s current surge in violence. Added to this is the population’s flagging confidence in the bona fides of the country’s security forces. With the August 21 summit, Calderon and his colleagues may have made an initial move (albeit, a tiny one) in the right direction.

This analysis was prepared by COHA Research Associate Amy Coonradt
August 26th, 2008

It's Biden!!!

2008-08-23T09:07:00.004-04:00

The long awaited answer to the VP question finally came last night by way of an electronic text message.

Barack has chosen Senator Joe Biden to be our VP nominee. Watch the first Obama-Biden rally live at 3pm ET on http://www.BarackObama.com. Spread the word!

The answer was actually less of a surprise than a confirmation as speculation in the media had already narrowed the decision down to Joe Biden(D-Delaware) just hours before the text message arrived.

The pick is a good fit for the Obama Campaign, with good credentials and a better than average record on Democratic issues. His background as a Pennsylvania native, and as a regional political institution should also help to draw support in the middle states (Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland) where support will be crucial for their electoral votes.

For the McCain campaign, rumor is he's looking at former Governor of Massachusetts and used-car-salesman-lookalike, Mitt Romney.

Justice Department adds indictments to Acevedo's corruption charges

2008-08-21T08:41:00.004-04:00

Press Release from U.S. Justice Department.

WASHINGTON – A federal grand jury in San Juan, Puerto Rico, today returned an indictment against Puerto Rico Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá, a senior aide and a former campaign director for wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering, Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew Friedrich of the Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico Rosa Emilia Rodríguez-Vélez announced. Today’s indictment follows an earlier indictment, returned on March 24, 2008, which charged these same defendants and others with related crimes.

The five-count indictment returned today in U.S. District Court in Puerto Rico, charges Acevedo Vilá, 46, of San Juan; Luisa Inclán Bird, 47, of Guaynabo, Puerto Rico; and Miguel Nazario Franco, 61, of San Juan with honest services wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Acevedo Vilá was Puerto Rico’s Resident Commissioner in the U.S. House of Representatives between 2001 and 2005, and has been the Governor of Puerto Rico since 2005. Inclán Bird, a lawyer, was a legal advisor for the San Juan Resident Commissioner Office when defendant Acevedo Vilá served as Resident Commissioner and a volunteer in the finance department for Acevedo Vilá’s 2004 gubernatorial campaign. Currently, Inclán Bird is a senior advisor for Governor Acevedo Vilá. Nazario Franco, a businessman in Puerto Rico, was director of the finance department for Acevedo Vilá’s 2004 gubernatorial campaign.

According to the indictment, the charges are focused on two related courses of conduct. The first, in counts one through four, alleges that the defendants deprived the citizens of Puerto Rico of the honest services of Acevedo Vilá as Governor of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Specifically, the indictment alleges that during his campaign for governor, and continuing after he was elected and inaugurated, Acevedo Vilá and others connected with his campaign solicited and received approximately $250,000 from a local businessman, referred to as "Collaborator 18," for the benefit of Acevedo Vilá and his campaign. Furthermore, the indictment alleges that during his term as governor, Acevedo Vilá participated in official actions intended to aid the business interests of Collaborator 18, while failing to disclose the nature and extent of his financial relationship with Collaborator 18.

In the indictment, count five sets forth the second related course of conduct and alleges that the defendants conspired to conduct financial transactions with the illegal funds provided by Collaborator 18. These transactions were designed to conceal and disguise the nature and the source of the money, which constituted the proceeds of the honest services fraud alleged in the earlier counts. The indictment further alleges that the media company used by Acevedo Vilá’s campaign created approximately $250,000 in fake invoices, which were provided to Collaborator 18’s company under the guise that the media company had provided bona fide services when, in fact, it had done no work for Collaborator 18 or his company. These invoices were designed to conceal the fact that the $250,000, which was subsequently paid by Collaborator 18’s company and used to offset debts incurred by the campaign, was the proceeds of the honest services fraud perpetrated by the defendants.

If convicted on counts one through four, each defendant faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted on the fifth count, each defendant faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a fine of twice the value of the property involved in the transaction or $500,000 – whichever is greater.

This case is being prosecuted by First Assistant U.S. Attorney María A. Domínguez and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ernesto López of the District of Puerto Rico, as well as Trial Attorneys Daniel A. Schwager, Ethan H. Levisohn and Peter M. Koski of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. The Public Integrity Section is headed by Chief William M. Welch, II. The case is being investigated by the FBI and Internal Revenue Service, with assistance and cooperation from the Office of the Comptroller of Puerto Rico.

The investigation into related corruption and other crimes is ongoing in the District of Puerto Rico. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until convicted through due process of law.

Paraguay's Leryn Franco named "Hottest Olympian"

2008-08-21T08:36:00.000-04:00

Just about every magazine around the world has used the Olympics as an excuse to show off athletic bodies and pass it off as journalism. But King Magazine thinks it found the right Olympian. Meet Leryn Franco from Paraguay... More Pictures Below

Latinos for Obama meeting in Aurora, Colorado [video]

2008-08-20T16:04:00.002-04:00

In Aurora, CO, former U.S. Secretary of Energy Federico Peña talks about what's at stake in this election. Very good.

Cuba defeats Puerto Rico in Olympic Boxing

2008-08-20T10:48:00.005-04:00

In what has turned out to be another disappointing performance at these Olympics, McWilliams Arroyo was defeated by Cuba's Laffita ending Puerto Rico's hopes to break the ongoing medal drought. The last medal won by a Puerto Rican Olympian was in 1996, twelve years ago in Atlanta.

With a score of 11 to 2 Andris Laffita Hernandez of Cuba moves on into the semifinals. Arroyo however felt cheated by the scoring which only awarded him two points for the entire match. Speculation is that Arroyo may turn professional as soon as he returns from Beijing.

These are the breaks. Hope it wasn't so, but Puerto Rico is officially done in these Olympic games. ***UPDATE-Asuncion Ocasio has advanced to the quarterfinals of the Women's 67kg Taekwondo tournament, and Angel Roman will get his chance a few hours from now in the Men's 80kg Taekwondo, thanks for the heads up.***

Cuba's Olympic tradition is nevertheless as strong as it ever was with 13 medals thus far. Cuba is the only Latin American or Caribbean country with double digit medal totals.

Jessica Alba at NCLR Alma Awards 2008

2008-08-19T16:03:00.005-04:00

Actress Jessica Alba (my future wife and mother to my future children) presents fashion designer Narciso Rodriguez with the award for Special Achievement in Fashion during the taping of the 2008 "NCLR Alma" awards at the Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California, August 17, 2008. The National Council of La Raza (NCLR) gives out the ALMA awards to honor outstanding Latino artistic achievement in television, film and music. The show airs September 12 on ABC.(Xinhua/Reuters Photos)

Latin American & Caribbean Olympic Medal Standings

2008-08-19T15:18:00.007-04:00

These totals will be updated daily and expanded.
Last Updated on SUN. August 24 --Final Update.

Latin America & Caribbean Medal Standings	Gold	Silver	Bronze	Total
Jamaica	6	3	2	11
Brazil	3	4	8	15
Cuba	2	11	11	24
Argentina	2	0	4	6
Mexico	2	0	1	3
Dominican Republic	1	1	0	2
Panama	1	0	0	1
Trinidad & Tobago	0	2	0	2
Bahamas	0	1	1	2
Colombia	0	1	1	2
Chile	0	1	0	1
Ecuador	0	1	0	1
Bahamas	0	1	1	2
Venezuela	0	0	1	1

***Proper Olympic rankings are in medal value order, not the total number of
medals***

Congratulations to all of our brothers and sisters from Latin America and the Caribbean for the great performances. 2012 will be even better.

Urakan is coming!!!

2008-08-18T18:27:00.004-04:00

Urakan, Juracan, Jurakan, Hurakan...The great god of wind and chaos, revered and feared by the Taino Indians, comes to Florida once again. The Great Juracan can not be denied. Bow down and take cover.

Puerto Rico's McWilliams Arroyo moves into Boxing Quaterfinals at Beijing Olympics

2008-08-18T08:37:00.001-04:00

Puerto Rico's hopes for a gold medal at the Beijing Olympics are still alive with McWilliams Arroyo Acevedo, who on WED August 20th at 7pm will fight in the Boxing Quaterfinals.

If Arroyo can make it past Cuba's Andris Laffita Hernandez he will move to fight on Friday's semifinal bout. If all goes well, by Saturday evening, Puerto Rico may have a claim to its first Gold Medal in its Olympics history. Go Puerto Rico!

[images from El Nuevo Dia]

U.S. in Nicaragua [cartoon]

2008-08-17T13:34:00.003-04:00

Cartoon by Barry Deutsch

Russian-Georgian conflict best for Iran

2008-08-15T06:54:00.004-04:00

The ongoing conflict between the former soviet republic and the largest country in the world has had the apparently unintended effect of drawing away attention from Iran. While only a couple of weeks ago pundits across the U.S. airwaves were ready to declare war on Iran, for nothing. Now the thought of attacking Iran while a resurgent Russia reestablishes its sphere of influence, seems at best foolish.

Though we should never discount the potential for foolishness of our fearless leaders.

Photo from MUSA SADULAYEV/ASSOCIATED PRESS through Boston.com

Mexican tenor Ramon Vargas wows China audience

2008-08-15T06:38:00.005-04:00

Among the Olympic sport highlights we often fail to notice the extra-olympic events that are scheduled in the host city. In Beijing one of these events was the World-Class Superstars Concert held at the Great Hall of the People with four of the greatest classical singers in the world today. One of those four was Mexican tenor Ramon Vargas.

Singing before an audience of international politicians and influence peddlers Vargas reached deep as if representing Mexico for Olympic glory, which in a way he was. While the newspapers and news networks of the world hover over the athletes, we should not forget the range of talents that can make a people proud if only they knew he was out there representing them. Mexico is far more than a futbol powerhouse, and Vargas showed it Thursday night.

Robert Rodriguez to Produce 'Red Sonja' [Movie Posters]

2008-08-14T08:33:00.004-04:00

Robert Rodriguez, the Mexican-American award-winning director, is set to produce the new 'Red Sonja' movie. For those not familiar with the Conan comic book universe may not recognize Red Sonja but you'll get the chance to in 2009 when Rose McGowan stars as Red Sonja. Robert Rodriguez is also working on a new Conan movie. He may be looking to recreate the entire Conan universe on film. Here is the other promotional film poster.

If you are unfamiliar with Robert Rodriguez's works here is a short list from IMDB:
Sin City 3 (2009) (in production)
Machete (2008) (V) (in production)
Sin City 2 (2010) (pre-production)
Shorts (2009) (post-production)
Planet Terror (2007)
Grindhouse (2007) (segment "Planet Terror") (fake trailer segment "Machete")
The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl 3-D (2005)
Sin City (2005)
Ten Minute Film School: Big Movies Made Cheap (2004) (V)
Once Upon a Time in Mexico (2003)
Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over (2003)
Spy Kids 2: Island of Lost Dreams (2002)
Spy Kids (2001)
The Faculty (1998)
From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)
Four Rooms (1995) (segment "The Misbehavers")
Desperado (1995)
Mariachi, El (1992)
Bedhead (1991)

NBC Coverage of Olympics leaves Puerto Ricans wanting

2008-08-14T07:51:00.000-04:00

First of all, lets give credit where credit is due. NBC's coverage of the Beijing Olympics is better than ever with more content, better production, and best of all, with Bob Costas at the helm. NBC has done a great job.

However, take the Opening Ceremonies with its parade of nations, for example. The commentators said something about every country, dropping interesting facts like its geographical location or an interesting anecdote about a certain athlete. So 8.5 million Puerto Ricans watching the ceremonies expected at least the same. Maybe a word about our flag bearer who many believed carried the best hope for a medal in these Olympics, or perhaps a quick mention of how the Puerto Rican National Basketball team was the first one to defeat the Dream Team. Instead, as soon as the Puerto Rico delegation stepped into the stadium all we got was, "and here is Puerto Rico." to be followed by talk of the anticipation for the American delegation and how it was necessary to take a commercial break before they came out. I believe there was at best 3 seconds of on-camera time for the delegation.

This was taken in stride by all Puerto Ricans. Noticed, but taken as what we are made to feel like, an afterthought.

The only other mention of Puerto Rico came during the US v. China basketball game, to remind the American audiences why the Dream Team was now dubbed the Redeem Team. But other than that brief mention, nothing.

Fair enough, I thought. We are not in serious contention for medals in most sports, other than in boxing, and NBC doesn't seem interested in boxing this year. Fine.

But last night Puerto Ricans felt truly ignored and rejected. During coverage of the All ARound Gymnastics finals we knew a Puerto Rican was in the house. Luis Rivera Rivera had made it into the finals and was competing on par with China, the US, Russia, Japan, Germany, and France. Like it has become our custom we did not expect NBC to focus on Rivera, but still we watched. We sat there staring past the foreground and into the events happening in the background looking for Rivera's Olympic uniform. We stayed up and watched.

First its was a blurry figure in the background chalking his hands, then it was a passing glance of his shoulder and another out-of-focus shot of his figure walking off the mat in the distance. We watched all night for any brief mention of his standings. Perhaps an on-screen graphic which could tell us how he was doing. They do it in swimming, so why not put up a simple ordered list of each athlete's standing. Instead when the graphic finally appeared it listed 1st ,2nd, 3rd, 4th, 12th, 14th. WHAT? Was it really too much to ask to show us everyone's standing? Was Rivera in 5th place? Was he in 13th place?

Then there was my mother, who sat all night watching with me, with her film camera intent on catching a glimpse of the first Puerto Rican in over a decade to reach this far into Olympics Gymnastics. She wanted a picture, not because we know him, because we do not. But because he is Puerto Rican. Because every now and then it is nice to know that a Puerto Rican is competing in front of the whole world. Because someday a Puerto Rican will win a Gold Medal and our national anthem will be played for all the world to hear... Someday.

But last night, 8.5 million Puerto Ricans (in the island, in the U.S., in Iraq & Afghanistan, scattered across the world) just wanted to see a glimpse of recognition, a mention of his name for his family in Naguabo, a comment about his chances, or simply just his name and standing in the midst of others in the competition. But we got nothing.

Luis Rivera Rivera, finished 14th in the overall standings. Out of 6.5 billion people on Earth last night he became the 14th best all around gymnast. The third best in the western hemisphere. A Puerto Rican who made us all proud, even if NBC couldn't be bothered.

(From last night's competition at China's National Indoor Stadium at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, here are some pictures from El Nuevo Dia, AP, and Getty News Service)

Puerto Rico at the Beijing Olympics, More Pictures

2008-08-13T20:39:00.006-04:00

Puerto Rican Olympian Jose Pedraza at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian Geralee Vega at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian Abderramán Brenes la Roche at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian Geralee Vega at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian Abderramán Brenes la Roche at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian Jonathan Gonzalez at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian Douglas Lennox at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian McJoe Arroyo at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian Kristina Lennox at Beijing 2008

Puerto Rican Olympian Jose Pedraza at Beijing 2008

Pictures from El Nuevo Dia

Ask a Chola visits Comic Con 2008

2008-08-12T05:26:00.003-04:00

Ask-a-Chola visits Comic Con 2008 and does the impossible, she makes them uncomfortable. Inside a world where it is normal to dress up like stormtroopers and Japanese manga characters, Ask-a-Chola's presence seems to disrupt that reality.

Ask-a-Chola is a self-described surrealist comedian out of 'Califas'. See more of her videos at askachola.com

Luis Rivera moves Puerto Rico into finals Olympics 2008

2008-08-09T13:58:00.006-04:00

Luis Rivera has qualified for the all around gymnastics finals. Go Puerto Rico!!! Here are some photos from El Nuevo Dia.

More Olympics Coverage below the comments.

Dan Velez sets new Puerto Rican national record in the Breast Stroke

2008-08-09T13:09:00.004-04:00

Daniel Velez - Wins the 3rd heat of the breaststroke and sets new Puerto Rican Record of 1:01:80 in that swimming competition. Although having won the swim heat, the Puerto Rican swimmer did not qualify for the semifinals. Puerto Rico and his friends from NC State are certainly proud.

More Olympics Coverage

Team Argentina at Beijing 2008 Olympics

2008-08-09T04:59:00.001-04:00

See Team Argentina Athlete Roster

Team Brazil at Beijing 2008 Olympics

2008-08-09T04:52:00.003-04:00

See the full Brazil Athlete Roster

Team Spain at Beijing Olympics

2008-08-09T03:29:00.006-04:00

See full Team Spain Athlete Roster

Latinos at the Olympics - Live Blogging JUDO matches

2008-08-09T02:41:00.010-04:00

3:35 AM EST- Argentina's Albarracin versus Iran's Akhonzadeh. Iran is victorious.

3:00 AM EST - Yanet Bermoy (CUBA) defeats - Germany

2:53 AM EST - Houkes (Denmark) defeats Guedes Sanchez (Venezuela)

2:51 AM EST - Venezuela's Guedes Sanchez is currently fighting Denmark's Houkes.

2:48 am EST - Paula Belen Pareto of Argentina was just defeated by World Champion and very scary fighter Ryoko Tani from Japan.

China's version of "Shock and Awe" at Olympics 2008

2008-08-09T01:30:00.005-04:00

Olympic Opening Ceremonies have always been over-the-top affairs combining theatrics and pyrotechnics with intricate choreographies, but China has out done them all. From the architectural works down to the masses of never-ending dancers and cheerleaders, China has proclaimed its right to host these games and after today nobody can deny it.

While accusations of human rights abuses and government information control still haunt the games, China commanded the attention of the world and demanded respect. "BE IMPRESSED" that was the message, "BE VERY IMPRESSED".

And the people were impressed, down to the staff preparing the London 2012 Olympics who gathered themselves to watch how high the bar has been set.

The London 2012 Blog recounts of the staff's reactions "...everyone was spellbound by an amazing show."

Now the London organizers must figure out how, within the next four years, they are going to top China's incredible efforts.

Check out more of our Olympics 2008 Coverage.

Amnesty International Ad Campaign

2008-08-03T21:40:00.001-04:00

Here's an ad for Amnesty International, a very good ad. Don't know if this is brand new or if it has been a round a while, but I found it effective.

Visit Amnesty International.

The Puerto Rican lineup for the 2008 Beijing Olympics

2008-07-31T07:35:00.005-04:00

Presenting Puerto Rico's finest, twenty-three in all and the hopes of a nation ride on their shoulders... no pressure. The games begin on August 8 and we'll live-blog the events.

Athletics
Men's 110m hurdles:
Héctor Cotto
Enrique Llanos

Men's 400m:
Félix Martinez

Women's 400m:
Carol Rodríguez

Men's 400m hurdles:
Javier Culson

Men's 1,500m:
David Freeman

Boxing
Flyweight: McWilliams Arroyo
Bantamweight: McJoe Arroyo
Lightweight: Jose Pedraza
Light welterweight: Jonathan Gonzalez
Light heavyweight: Carlos Negron

Gymnastics
Men's Artistic: Luis Rivera Rivera

Judo
Men's 73kg: Alexis Chiclana Melendez
Men's 81kg: Abderramán Brenes la Roche
Men's 100kg: Pablo Figueroa Carrillo

Shooting
Men's Double Trap: Lucas Bennazar Ortiz

Swimming
Men's 100m breaststroke: Daniel Velez
Men's 100m butterfly: Lennox Silva
Women's 200m butterfly: Kristina Lennox
Women's 50m freestyle: Vanessa Garcia
Women's 400m freestyle: Kristina Lennox

Taekwondo
Men's 80kg: Angel Roman
Women's 67kg: Asuncion Ocasio

Weightlifting
Women's 58kg: Geralee Vega

Puerto Rico's National Basketball Team did not qualify for the Olympics

Source: Comite Olimpico de Puerto Rico

Luis Ramirez, 25, killed for being Mexican in Pennsylvania

2008-07-31T06:30:00.007-04:00

On July 12, Luis Ramirez, a 25 year old undocumented immigrant was assaulted by four teens at 11:15pm. The teens, three of them football players at Shenandoah Valley High School had been drinking most of the night when they spotted Ramirez. According to eyewitness reports the teens began mouthing off racial/ethnic slurs at Ramirez and then proceeded to beat him. After bringing him to the ground, a kick to the head put him into a coma from which he would never awaken. On July 14, Luis Ramirez, a laborer who only wanted to provide for his wife and two children, died from his injuries.

The Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, or MALDEF, and the Puerto Rican Legal Defense Fund called for federal monitoring of the investigation and prosecution as it is suspected that a wider pattern of ethnic intimidation may exist in the Shenandoah area. The FBI and the Department of Justice are now investigating further into the incident.

At NASDAQ Dominicans protest oil speculation

2008-07-31T06:05:00.004-04:00

The story reprinted from the People's Weekly World

NEW YORK—A group of Dominican American and other Latino elected officials with dozens of community members protested petroleum speculation here in Times Square July 30. Called by the League of Dominican American Elected Officials and hosted by New York State Assembly Member Adriano Espaillat, the protest was held outside the headquarters of NASDAQ, which trades oil futures.

“We are here to address rampant unregulated speculation conducted in the NASDAQ trade market,” said Espaillat, who is co-chairman of the league. He and other speakers blamed market speculators and deregulation of the oil markets for the unprecedented oil and gas prices in working-class Dominican American communities in the U.S., and in the Dominican Republic. The national average for a gallon of gas in the United States is now $3.89 and in the Dominican Republic gas tops $6.00 a gallon, according to some reports.

Speakers blamed the staggering gas prices on the Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000, which opened the door to speculation on energy commodities. U.S. gas prices have more than doubled since the act was passed. The league is supporting legislation introduced by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.), which would reestablish some regulation to curb such speculation. President Bush vetoed an attempt to reform the act earlier this year. Espaillat told reporters that Congressional Republicans attempted to kill Reid’s bill by introducing offshore drilling proposals into it last week.

“This winter in New England is going to be a difficult one,” said Rhode Island State Senator Juan Pichardo, referring to predictions of high heating-oil prices next season. “We are stepping up not only for congressional action but to build an alliance with [Dominican Republic] President Fernandez.” Pichardo is the other co-chairman of the league.

In response to the global oil crisis, Dominican President Leonel Fernandez is proposing a Global Petroleum Solidarity Fund be created to assist countries with annual per capita income less than $6,000. Under the proposal, oil-producing nations would allocate 3 percent of their record earnings to the fund.

“Our goal is to let the speculators on Wall Street know, we will not be invisible. We are being impacted by oil prices not only in this country, but in the Dominican Republic,” Councilman Reynaldo Martinez of Haledon, N.J., told the World.

Elected officials from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Maryland participated in the protest and press conference. The American Northeast is home to the majority of Dominican Americans.

The crowd chanted, “Lower the prices!” as they picketed. Some held signs reading, “Talk is cheap. Gas isn’t,” and “Wall Street gets drunk and effects everyone” in English and Spanish. Some held Dominican flags, but one protester assured a curious passerby, “This is for everyone. Gas prices are killing everyone.”

Pichardo said in a written statement, “Without a legal framework to halt market speculation, U.S. Hispanics, as well as all the most disadvantaged groups and countries around the world will end up paying for the profits of speculators who don’t see beyond their own greed.”

Ask-a-Chola calls out Lou Dobbs as her babydaddy

2008-07-31T05:27:00.003-04:00

Lou Dobbs, you should live up to your responsibilities and take care of Lupita!!!

Ask-a-Chola is a 'califas' based surrealist comedian... and a favorite of the Latino Insurgent. You can check out all her videos here.

Ludacris raps about Obama

2008-07-31T04:59:00.003-04:00

Ludacris released a small rhyme called "Politics" which is causing a little bit of trouble for Senator Obama. Ludacris strikes a defiant tone to say the least with this piece and it's pretty good. But for sanitized ears not accustomed to Hip Hop style throw-downs among rappers, the lyrics are ringing every alarm bell. Click play to check out the song.

Here are the lyrics:
I'm back on it like I just signed my record deal
yeah the best is here, the Bentley Coup paint is dripping wet, it got sex appeal
never should have hated
you never should've doubted him
with a slot in the president's iPod Obama shattered 'em
Said I handled his biz and I'm one of his favorite rappers
Well give Luda a special pardon if I'm ever in the slammer
Better yet put him in office, make me your vice president
Hillary hated on you, so that b^$&%* is irrelevant
Jesse talking slick and apologizing for what?
if you said it then you meant it how you want it have a gut!
and all you other politicians trying to hate on my man,
watch us win a majority vote in every state on my man
you can't stop what's bout to happen, we bout to make history
the first black president is destined and it's meant to be
the threats ain't fazing us, the nooses or the jokes
so get off your ass, black people, it's time to get out and vote!
paint the White House black and I'm sure that's got 'em terrified
McCain don't belong in ANY chair unless he's paralyzed
Yeah I said it cause Bush is mentally handicapped
Ball up all of his speeches and I throw em like candy wrap
cause what you talking I hear nothing even relevant
and you the worst of all 43 presidents
get out and vote or the end will be near
the world is ready for change because Obama is here!
cause Obama is here
The world is ready for change because Obama is here!

Zapatistas get plug on Canadian TV

2008-07-31T03:17:00.006-04:00

I was just watching ReGenesis, the Canadian produced drama about scientists saving the world, or North America at least. The show, which is syndicated worldwide, is like CSI without the glitz and with better science. In any case, while watching episode 10 of season 1, my eyes came across this image:

It reads "Ser Zapatista no es delito, EZLN", roughly "Being a Zapatista is not a crime, EZLN". The graffiti doesn't look real to me, but it may be. Still, it's so well framed that I'm sure whoever shot this, knew what they were looking at. So this is either an accidental or deliberate show of solidarity. I'm betting it was deliberate and I wonder if the EZLN ever saw it.

The episode, entitled "The Source" was first aired on January 2, 2005.

Army recruiters bully prospects [VIDEO]

2008-07-30T22:01:00.003-04:00

A CBS investigation aired on July 28, uncovers the tactics being used by Army recruiters. Using threats of arrest and accusations of desertion, Army recruiters in Texas have crossed the line. Whether this is a tactic aimed at Latinos or the population in general is unknown at this time, but it points to how low these recruiters are willing to go. Watch the report here.

Obama Reggaeton Song

2008-07-30T21:00:00.003-04:00

Not exactly the best reggaeton song out there, but I do think it is the first reggaeton song ever written for a U.S. presidential candidate. Similar to the Viva Obama video from the primaries. It comes from www.amigosdeobama.com. Check it out below.