The Inauguration Debate & More

My favorite news website (Newser.com) is featuring a story that has (predictably) sparked unusually lively debate in its comments section. A black writer calls for whites to give up their places in the Inauguration Day festivities so that more African American may witness the historic occasion. I couldn't risk getting involved with some provocative remarks.

Likewise, I had to defend Caroline Kennedy from some incredibly hateful attackers on the site with the following post:

I can't believe the hate spewing forth in these comments. The oldest of the Kennedy sons gave his life on a near suicide mission in WWII. JFK was a war hero as well, and was the first president to give a speech on Civil Rights since Lincoln. Then without passing "GO" he went straight to the heart of racist Texas to carry the message of the NEW FRONTIER. When his life was taken, the way was paved for LBJ to implement the changes President Kennedy died for, and more. Listen to the words of the song "Abraham, Martin, & John" -- it became a timeless classic for a reason.

Bobby Kennedy put himself on the line opposing the worst (but not the first) murderous, imperialist American war overseas, knowing that assassination in the US was becoming common for those who championed the downtrodden and unpopular causes. Ted Kennedy's companion died in an accident, and JFK, Jr. may have been reckless. But why should this disqualify Caroline Kennedy? Why should she risk assassination running for office before the time is right? She bravely challenged the Clinton machine (and some in her family) to support Obama. New Yorkers should give her the chance to serve out Hillary's second term, and then run for the office in two years. In the meantime, she can help support the Obama agenda in the Senate, where he will certainly need her help. All of us in this benighted, faltering country need her help.