3/19/2024

March 20, 2024

My Dear Friend & POTUS, JRB,

            What do you make of the news that Leo Varadkar is stepping down? Perhaps he should have stayed in Ireland while those two referendums were on the ballot last week. According to the NYT, voters weren’t sure what it meant that “family, whether founded on marriage or on other durable relationships, (is) the natural primary & fundamental unit group of society.” 

            As a feminist I am conflicted about whether the government should have any stake in people’s personal relationships. I’m not convinced that incentivizing marriage is working.

            How was Reno? Did you really say that 45 “despises Latinos?” I’m not convinced that will go over well. It makes it sound like folks with Hispanic heritage are all alike. You are well aware, that’s not the case. Best to avoid sweeping generalizations.

            Even better, do more to address poverty! Today’s WP indicates, “poverty rose from 7.8 % to 12.4%  for all people in 2022, more than doubling, from 5.2 % to 12.4% for children.” Single moms need childcare!!

            As you announce your gift of $8.5 billion to Intel, how about the same amount to subsidize childcare centers?

            Please encourage the new alliance of 7 Ethnic Armed Organizations who are replacing the Peace Process Steering Team & aims to solve political problems through inclusive dialogue & to protect civilians affected by armed conflict. As Thich Nhat Hanh suggests peace requires reconciliation, “there must be people who can get in touch with both sides, understand the suffering of both sides, & tell each side about the other.”

            Have you filled out your brackets? According to CSM, March Madness, “offers models of excellence, grace, empathy & community.” The G points out that this year women are the “main event.”  I’m cheering for the Badgers. Sorry the Blue Hens didn’t make it.

            BYBS,