From: David Andrews 
Subject: Re: Why the NFB
I see lots of debate here, and this list is sponsored by the NFB, and paid
for largely by the NFB.
David Andrews
At 10:11 PM 4/13/98 -0500, you wrote:
>
>
>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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