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Subject:       Re: Why the NFB
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You make very valid points.  The problem is that so many of the members of
the organization cannot, or do not, think for themselves.  It is very
important for their own continuity to label and name call those of us who
think independently  about the good and bad in the NFB.  No one dare even 
consider the possibility that the organization can make a mistake.  They 
might admit to little mistakes of the leadership, and state them in a 
whisper, but no direct open debate.  In that way, it is similar to the 
organization as a whole.  This is sad since the organization has done so 
very much good for blind people in this country.  I hope that things will 
change when Ken Jernigan dies, though it will be sad for many.  Perhaps a 
different political culture will develop.  However, I rather doubt it, as 
so many of the current leaders got where they got by playing the old 
political game of following the leader without question.  Already there 
are too many younger leaders who have learned that this is the way to get 
power and respect in the organizationand keep it.   The organization can 
remain just as strong and viable if those with differing viewpoints are 
considered.  We certainly don't have the answer, far from it, but there 
is truth in much of what we say regarding the lack of meaningful 
political involvement.  I've seen the ADB and NFB at work in terms of 
democratic involvement, and I will absolutely assure you, no question, no 
question, the ACB is much more democratic in its methods.  It is apparent 
at an instant.  In terms of effectiveness, that's another story but the 
ACB is definitely more democratic.
	Harvey, if you are still an active member of NFB, I'm sure you 
realize that you may be "reorganized" as they say because of your 
differing opinions.  Hats off from me to you for your courage and 
directness!  Unfortunately, I'm sure you know you are blowing in the wind 
in terms of the ability of most nfb members to understand and deal with 
what you are saying.  They have too much tied up socially, politically, 
and personally with the NFB to understand.  Some will, which is also why 
I write this, but most will continue to put their heads in the sand.  
When they find that they cannot put across a political concern of theirs
and are treated undemocratically by the membership, then, and only then, 
will they understand.  We all know this, but the truth needs to be told 
nevertheless.
	Good luck to you.
On Mon, 13 Apr 1998, Harvey Heagy wrote:
> 
> 
> Of course we all have to give up a certain amount of freedom for
> the good of all.  Our form of government is not a true democracy
> but a republic form of same.
> 
> And in the N.F.B. we do indeed elect people to do certain jobs
> for us; that's to be expected.  But why is it that those of us
> who adopt views different from those of the leadership are
> essentially called, "stupid," or are told, " we just don't get
> it," and such.
> 
> The truth is that those who adopt the national's diverse views
> are praised as being intelligent and great thinking people and
> those of us who adopt opposing diverse views are put down.
> 
> As far as bashing our leaders is concerned, the president, members
> of congress, members of the cabinet and others in high profile
> positions receive a certain amount of criticism including from
> members and leaders of the N.F.B.  A certain amount of criticism
> comes with any high profile position, why should our national
> leaders be the exception?  If they can't handle it, let them give
> up their high profile status or as Harry Truman said, "If you can't
> stand the heat, get out of the kitchen."
> 
> Harvey
> 
> 
> 
+----------------------------+
|  Steve Zielinski  (N8UJS)  |
|      stevez@ripco.com      |
+----------------------------+
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