According to the Department of Homeland Security, I became an “extremist” on April 15 when I attended the Winston-Salem Tea Party. I recall another group of men being labeled “extremists” around the time of 1776. Today, we celebrate Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, Thomas Paine, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and many other “extremists” for their patriotism. The media positioned these events as anti-tax rallies that were organized by Republicans; however, I believe these “parties” were largely about the disappointment that Americans have with how the country is being governed by those wearing blue and red.
America was born out of the frustration of men and women that balked at ideals such as being taxed without representation, not being allowed to pursue individual happiness with freedom from tyranny, and living under the control of men that placed their needs before the cries of the people. Tea parties took place across America to help citizens unite against the ongoing siege of American Republicanism and the real crisis that is present in our country – the uncontrollable expansion of government.
Although these “tea parties” were dismissed by the Obama Administration as unsatisfied citizens complaining about the current state of affairs; however, I am one that believe these nationally coordinated events could mark the beginning of the next American Revolution. You must remember the British never expected the Boston Tea Party to inspire men and women to rise up and demand freedom.
Americans turned out in record numbers this past November because they desired the “change” that was eloquently preached by President Obama on the campaign trail. I agreed with Mr. Obama that Washington and the way that our government operates needed to be overhauled; however, I am unconvinced the real change needed in this country will come from his administration. Change cannot and will not occur while Congress continues to be controlled by career politicians that care more for self than service.
All of us have grown discontented from lawmakers and their constant stream of legislation that reeks of unintended consequences and wasted taxpayer resources. The citizens that attended these tea parties are demanding that our elected leaders begin to place solutions as a priority over more legislation. Our representatives in Washington must be reminded of their duty to serve this country above their desire to promote ideology and partisan goals.
I firmly believe the only way to alter the course of this country and the control of government is through the institution of term limits on members of Congress. Americans must stand up and rid our government of career politicians that are out of touch with the needs and wants of their constituents. Unquestionably, the House and Senate will not have the courage or will to pursue this issue without the deafening sound of voters demanding real “change”.
My hope is that these tea parties are the beginning of a grassroots effort to shift the power in America back into the hands of the people. Obama proved to the world what can be accomplished when people unite behind a unified ideal and use the power of their vote to speak. Over 200 years ago, a grassroots effort overthrew the most powerful empire in the world, and today all of us are needed in order for the citizens of this country to regain control from the career politicians that desire to rule over us. The fight is not about donkeys and elephants or partisan politics, but instead it is about a loss of the principles that helped to create the greatest country in history. Thomas Jefferson once said, “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants”.
