The “glass ceiling is hidden in a bottle of ketchup,” says Buck

April 13, 2016 · 0 Comments

(Re: Brock’s Banter, April 7)

Your poll subject this week on systemic racism provides an excellent illustration of everything systemic.
You looked but did not see. You listened but did not hear.
In the middle of the column referring to the presidential nomination you write:
“Rarely, so far, has the conversation been about who truly represents the ideals of the Democratic Party and what that Party actually stands for.”
The comment is such a small part of the whole, it could pass unnoticed.
Yet there it is. Blatant and glaring: total dismissal of Hillary Clinton’s entire campaign.
Despite all the debates, town hall meetings, interviews, rallies and speeches, in your own admission, you heard nothing.
After a lifetime in politics, independent Bernie Sanders became a Democrat to make a bid for the Democratic nomination.
A woman was the likely nominee.
Sanders saw opportunity.
His objective is a revolution against the party, pure and simple.
Hillary is a loyal Democrat working for Democratic programs throughout her adult life.
Certainly her background trumps Sanders.
She worked within the system, where the greatest needs were, while Sanders flitted back and forth on the perimeter choosing issues to his advantage.
Every speech indicates Hilary’s support for programs begun, acknowledges flaws and commitment to continue and improve them.
Sanders’ conversation seldom “refers to Democratic ideals and what that Party actually stands for.”
Hillary seldom complains.
It would not be useful.
Politicians worth their salt don’t whine about unfairness.
It’s a given.
Even while you do it, you don’t know what you do.
This week, senior Republican Senator from Maine Susan Collins broke from Republican leadership to say the President’s nomination for Supreme Court should receive a hearing according to the Constitution.
A male Senator had tried earlier, but scurried back when threatened with defeat in the next election.
Senator Collins’ quiet, confident, dignified statement was reported and not referred to again.
As though it never happened.
Another example of systemic prejudice.
It’s like being invisible.
It’s called the glass ceiling, Brock.
Next time you hear the expression, you will understand the part you play.