Politics and publicity

Bridge over the River Seine to St. Cloud, Paris.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy's sensitivity about his height draws unwelcome publicity.

So much for the peace process. Israel announces plans to build new settlements in the Occupied Territories, in direct violation of international law - not to mention a rebuff to President Barack Obama.  Why are we still giving billions of dollars in aid and weapons to a state that deliberately defies the law and denies basic human rights to the Palestinians?

And here's the full text of President Obama's speech to encourage American schoolchildren to care for their future. Why are right-wing talk show hosts and conservative Republican politicians up in arms about a speech that encourages children to learn, work hard and accept personal responsibility for their actions? Education trumps over stupidity every single time (notwithstanding a certain former Alaska governor).

Comments

[dutchbaby]

I don't care if Sarkozy, or anybody else, wants to stand on a ladder to deliver a speech. Can we talk about the issues please?

How can anybody condone the despicable actions of the Israeli's in the Occupied Territories! The arrogance!

I'm going to go read the speech now. Thanks for finding the complete text.

[christina]

i printed the speech out for class today. they loved it.

[jeanie]

I cannot believe anyone could object to this speech. Honestly, sometimes I think I live in a country of stupid people!

[Marilyn]

I totally agree we should not be supporting a country that goes against the agreement.

Thanks for Obama's speech to the children. It is exactly as I expected. How can anyone disapprove of it, I don't know. But I am sure we will hear some very stupid comments in reply. I hope children can look beyond the stupidity.

[Helen]

I suspect that you know by now that some schools will not show the speech and that some people will keep their kids home from school. Who would have thought? It is so discouraging watching this country being divided this way.

[Marianne]

I'm watching with interest to see what Obama and/or Clinton do in response to the Israeli announcement. It certainly feels like a direct challenge to the US administration and I'm sure they are thinking very hard about how to respond. I wish them wisdom.

[Gillian daSilva]

I wish I'd had Obama in my corner as a child.
Those values weren't driven home, save by our parents. But it takes a village, and many people on side to promote a line of thinking.

That photo makes me want to go for a bike ride, right now! xo