Pres.Obama proclaims May 1 as Loyalty Day

[dixiegrrrrl]

Last edited Thu May 2, 2013, 07:09 PM - Edit history (1)

May 1st has traditionally been THE INTERNATIONAL LABOR DAY, commemorates the historic struggle of working people throughout the world.
The holiday began in the 1880s in the USA, linked to the battle for the eight-hour day, and the Chicago anarchists.

Now Pres. Obama has signed a proclamation that May 1 is "Loyalty Day", with these words:

Let us mark this day by pressing on in the march toward lasting freedom and true equality, grateful for the precious rights and responsibilities entrusted to each of us by our forebears.

On this day, let us reaffirm our allegiance to the United States of America, our Constitution, and our founding values.

I call upon all the people of the United States to join in support of this national observance, whether by displaying the flag of the United States or pledging allegiance to the Republic for which it stands.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/04/30/presidential-proclamation-loyalty-day-2013

What do you think of "Loyalty Day"?

edit note: some people were unhappy with the wording "designates" so I changed it.

[datasuspect]

1. loyalty is a two way street, homie.

[ecstatic]

102. homie? nt

[IDemo]

2. Gotta love the Onion

What??

[woo me with science]

52. Nope, not the Onion.

The shit coming out of our government has become that creepy, for real.

[IDemo]

55. I knew that

The Onion has become almost irrelevant, given the headlines on any day of the week.

[woo me with science]

59. +1 You know the system is sick when you can't even parody it anymore. nt

[Eleanors38]

66. Interesting take on the growing obsolescence of the Onion...

We are now in the age of double-down: If you repeat your absurd action enough, it takes the juice out of any stand-up comic's best lines. In this case, President Obama has walked into a moldy old union hall and broken wind loudly. Because he knows ain't no one gonna call his hand, 'cause they're busy dealing with the last porcelain-cracker.

Loyalty Day my ass.

[truedelphi]

213. Thanks for the observation, Woo Me with Science.

It used to be that the ludicrous stories The Onion portrayed were a bit divorced from reality. Over the years, that gap has narrowed, and in some cases become non-existent.

[warrprayer]

3. ...

[frazzled]

4. It's consonant with int'l labor day if you read the whole thing

In the centuries since America broke from an empire and claimed independence, our people have come together again and again to meet the challenges of a changing world. We have reinvented our cities with advances in science and reformed our markets with new understanding of the forces that guide them. We have fought for freedom in the theater of war and expanded its reach during times of peace. We have revamped and recovered and remade ourselves anew, mindful that when times change, so must we. But with every step forward, we have reaffirmed our faith in the ideals that inspired our founding. We have held fast to the principles at our country's core: service and citizenship; courage and the common good; liberty, equality, and justice for all.

This is our Nation's heritage, and it is what we remember on Loyalty Day. It is an occasion that asks something of us as a people: to rediscover those ageless truths our Founders held to be self-evident, and to renew them in our own time. We look back to Americans who did the same, from generation to generation -- citizens who strengthened our democracy, organizers who made it broader, service members who gave everything to protect it. These patriots and pioneers remind us that while our path to a more perfect Union is unending, with hope and hard work, we can move forward together.

Today, we rededicate ourselves to that enduring task. We do so knowing our journey is not complete until the promises of our founding documents are made real for every American, regardless of their station in life or the circumstances of their birth. Progress may come slow; the road may be long. But as loyal citizens of these United States, we have the power to set our country's course. Let us mark this day by pressing on in the march toward lasting freedom and true equality, grateful for the precious rights and responsibilities entrusted to each of us by our forebears.

I think perhaps the word "loyalty" is not a good one, but then, I can't think of another word. But a day to remember and encourage "the principles at our country's core: service and citizenship; courage and the common good; liberty, equality, and justice for all" is okay by me.

Also, if it takes the focus off kids in the Pacific Northwest smashing windows, that's okay, too. As long as labor equality is part of the day's thoughts.

[tralala]

17. It is an explicit denial of class society in America.

Completely goes against the whole point of International Worker's Day. It's like if it was International Women's Day everywhere else and here we declared it American Family Day or something.

[frazzled]

20. How is it a denial of class society in America?

It explicitly says we have to continue working for equality and justice for all (the presupposition being, that such a society does not yet exist here).

Please refer to exact words from the proclamation when you explain how this is a denial of class society in America.

[deutsey]

25. My two cents

That language, noble as it is (and I do take it seriously), is very broad and glosses over the specific concerns of working people, imo.

We already rarely see our (working people's) needs and perspectives reflected accurately or in any kind of meaningful depth in mainstream media and in politics (where the working class is actively under attack under austerity measures, Walker's Wisconsin, etc.).

I choose to align myself in solidarity unambiguously with other workers on May Day, not just in America, but around the world.

[Mira]

43. I second your words.

I think it's a very empty handed gift. The kind I receive and then say: Now what?

[tralala]

26. Not interested in semantic games

[frazzled]

32. Me either

But I'm certainly not the one who is playing them.

I think you're making a big deal about what is simply an updated (and more palatable) wording to a "day" that has been on the books since 1921.

[G_j]

65. except who knows that? most think of it

as a day of solidarity with workers, marking their sacrifices and gains, certainly a day celebrated by the left.

[Eleanors38]

70. Well, there you have it. a "day celebrated by the left" gets to hear the "loyalty" message...

Either it is ponderously implied flip-off of the "Left, patent-pending," or expression of a very real worry that "Labor, patent-pending" could somehow become a real pain in the ass for American Corporate Politics.

Or both.

[sabrina 1]

159. Why not make it simple and just call it International Labor Day, to remember the struggles of those

fought, some even died, to achieve rights for workers. Why introduce such a loaded word at all?

Loyalty to what? Commitment would be a better word, there are plenty of words that would could be used to better express what this day is about. At the very least, it is a silly word to choose for this day, at worst, it is bound to cause controversy and distract from the history, sometimes very courageous and often tragic history, of Labor around the world.

[ocpagu]

184. I entirely agree. n/t

[forestpath]

5. I find it a very empty gesture. And insulting to labor.

[foo_bar]

6. it's a curious (anti-labor and/or anti-Communist) tradition

The holiday was first observed in 1921, during the First Red Scare. It was originally called "Americanization Day," and it was intended to replace the May 1 ("May Day&quot celebration of the International Workers' Day, which commemorates the 1886 Haymarket Massacre in Chicago.

Loyalty Day is celebrated with parades and ceremonies in several U.S. communities, like Batavia, Illinois, although many people in the United States remain unaware of it. Although a legal holiday, it is not a federal holiday, and is not commonly observed.

During the second Red scare, it was made an official holiday by the U.S. Congress on July 18, 1958 (Public Law 85-529). Following the passage of this law, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed May 1, 1959, the first official observance of Loyalty Day. With the exception of Eisenhower in 1959 and 1960, Loyalty Day has been recognized with an official proclamation every year by every president since its inception as a legal holiday in 1958.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loyalty_Day

The Eisenhower administration regarded the spirit of International Workers’ Day as leftist and Communist. With Law Day and Loyalty Day, the administration sought to inoculate American citizens against the infection of Communism, its ideas and its institutions.

http://www.policymic.com/articles/7742/may-day-2012-communist-conspiracies-and-the-reason-the-u-s-does-not-celebrate

[dixiegrrrrl]

31. My iniital impression was correct

I forgot to check wiki, thank you so much for doing that.

The very first thought I had on finding this Proclamation was a mental image of McCarthy.
I remember seeing some of the hearings on early tv
and later read a great deal about McCarthyism.

So, tis not at all co-incidental that this Proclamation was timed for May 1.

don't think any of our Corporate Masters are behind it, by any chance, do ya?

[rug]

7. Replacing May Day with Law Day was bad enough.

This tops that.

[Blue_Tires]

10. +1

[byeya]

24. + +

[Eleanors38]

73. Yes, why this trip to May 1 Mecca to regularly pay homage to what it doesn't mean?

Think they are trying to tell us something? Reassure somebody?

[DevonRex]

75. 36 U.S.C. § 115: (a) Designation.— May 1 is Loyalty Day. IT IS A FUCKING LAW.

Passed long ago.

[rug]

98. First enacted in 1921 on the heels of the Palmer Raids and the "Red Scare".

It's statutory propaganda.

The word choice of the Proclamation is entirely the work of the White House.

[DevonRex]

99. Whatever, dude. nt

[dixiegrrrrl]

207. "statutory propaganda."

Good phrase.

[magellan]

8. Meh

We already celebrate that stuff on Independence Day.

[Myrina]

9. You mean now Corporations are going to be loyal to their employees?

Since it's all patriotic and stuff?

Jus' askin' ....

[Demo_Chris]

16. No, it's Obama's way of showing loyalty to his corporate masters. nt

[DevonRex]

76. OBAMA DID NOT PASS THIS LAW. CONGRESS DID.

36 U.S.C. § 115: (a) Designation.— May 1 is Loyalty Day. IT IS A FUCKING LAW.

[sheshe2]

109. +1!

[MADem]

150. Ah, yes, but the KING BARACK crowd WILL find a way to paint it in a negative light AND blame it all

on His Royal Highness, Barack the First!!! How DARE he sign a law that was passed by the representatives of We, The People --- the NOIVE o'that guy!!!!

I have to laugh at spittle-flecked anger when the mechanics of how our nation runs are completely ignored. If ya don't laugh, you'll cry.

I wish they'd bring back CIVICS classes to the public schools. They're needed.

[DevonRex]

155. Hey, I love the video!

But this place was crazy today!

[MADem]

158. I hear ya! nt

[Demo_Chris]

164. Don't confuse me with facts!

I admit it, I jumped before looking. Thanks for the correction.

[DevonRex]

173. That is the sweetest thing

I have read all day. Seriously. Thank you.

[Demo_Chris]

175. Sounds like one hell of a bad day... tomorrow should be better. nt

[bemildred]

11. "Patriotism is voluntary. It is a feeling of loyalty and allegiance that is the result of knowledge

and belief. No law will make a citizen a patriot."

- Minnesota governor Jesse Ventura, upon squelching a state bill that would have required every child to recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the start of the school day.

[Melinda]

12. Reagan'st 1st proclamation (1981) of "Loyalty Day"

A Proclamation

One of the great treasures of America is the unity of its people. No nation is composed of citizens with such diverse cultural, racial and religious backgrounds as is the United States of America. And while the unique contributions of each segment of our population are important, the significant fact remains that each of us, whatever background, remains loyal to the Nation and to the ideals of freedom for which it stands.

Throughout our history, all Americans have toiled together to build this land into the freest and most prosperous Nation on earth. And when the times required it, our people stood shoulder-to-shoulder proclaiming to any in the world who would threaten, that all were Americans and proud of it.

Seldom are we called upon to consciously consider and express loyalty to our Nation and its ideals of liberty. It would be well to do so. The world is filled with tyranny and deprivation. Each of us can thank God that we are living in this blessed land. And when differences arise among us, which is only natural in a free society, we should always remain aware that we are one people, together and indivisible.

As we strive to solve the problems confronting us, it is appropriate to stop for a moment and reflect upon our national institutions, our heritage of freedom and what it means to be an American.

To encourage such reflection, a joint resolution of the Congress was enacted on July 18, 1958 (72 Stat. 369, 36 U.S.C. 162), designating the first day of May of each year as Loyalty Day, and requesting that the President issue an annual proclamation inviting public observance.

Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, call upon all Americans and upon patriotic, civic, and educational organizations to observe Friday, May 1, 1981, as Loyalty Day, with appropriate ceremonies.

I call upon officials of the Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings and grounds on that day in testimony of our loyalty.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of April, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred eightyone, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fifth.

s/s St. Ronnie

http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=43691
---------------------------

Looks like its a Congressional Act - an American tradition. Oh, and that sound you hear is freeper's heads exploding all over the intertubes.

[MADem]

212. JFK's last one before he was murdered...Proclamation 3528 - Loyalty Day, 1963 April 18, 1963

Everybody's doin' it, doin' it, doin' it:


http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=24067

By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Dedication, devotion, and loyalty to our country and to the free democratic precepts upon which it was founded has always been a cherished tradition with our people-from our Founding Fathers to our servicemen now serving in the far-flung corners of the world. Understandably, our people avoid ostentatious displays of patriotic fervor. Nevertheless, in these trying times, when international forces are attempting to undermine and destroy our form of free government and our way of life, it is entirely fitting and proper and in the national interest to set aside a special day each year on which to express our unceasing devotion and loyalty to this Nation. To this end, the Congress, by a joint resolution of July 18, 1958 (72 Stat. 369), has designated May 1 of each year as Loyalty Day and has requested the President to issue a proclamation inviting the people of the United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies.

Now, Therefore, I, John F. Kennedy, President of the United States of America do hereby call upon the people of the United States, and upon all patriotic, civic, and educational organizations to observe Wednesday, May 1, 1963, as Loyalty Day, in schools and other suitable places with appropriate ceremonies in which all of our people may join in a reaffirmation of their loyalty to the United States of America.

I also call upon appropriate officials of the Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on that day as a manifestation of our loyalty to the Nation which that flag symbolizes.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States of America to be affixed.

DONE at the City of Washington this 18th day of April in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the United States of America the one hundred and eighty-seventh.


JOHN F. KENNEDY

By the President:
DEAN RUSK,
Secretary of State

Here's JIMMY CARTER's first--he did three more after this 'un:
http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=7220
Proclamation 4493 - Loyalty Day, 1977
March 23, 1977
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Loyalty, however we may choose to define it, must dwell in our hearts as well as our minds. If we are to rely only on what the heart tells us about America, it will be easy to blind ourselves to those problems that our Nation has yet to solve as it begins its third century. If we are to rely only on the mind, it will be easy to create justifications that help us evade responsibility for our errors. Loyalty ought not to be a leash that prevents the mind from searching for new ideas or from asking new questions about old ones that have long gone unchallenged. Rather, the loyalty we feel in our hearts should be an anchor that keeps us faithful to the ideals of individual dignity and worth for which so many Americans have fought and died.

To encourage the American people to set aside a special day to reaffirm their loyalty to the United States and to reflect upon their heritage, the Congress, by joint resolution of July 18, 1958 (72 Stat. 369, 36 U.S.C. 162), designated the first day of May of each year as Loyalty Day and requested the President to issue a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance.

Now, Therefore, I, Jimmy Carter, President of the United States of America, call upon all appropriate organizations to celebrate Sunday, May 1, 1977, as Loyalty Day with such ceremonies as will encourage the American people to reaffirm their loyalty to the United States of America.

I also call upon the appropriate officials of the Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on that day to underscore our renewed sense of national purpose.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-third day of March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred seventy-seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and first.


JIMMY CARTER

[enlightenment]

13. I find it alarming.

Very 1950s in its tone. As one who was forced to sign a "loyalty oath" before I could teach, I am opposed to government imposing a top-down model of patriotism that blithely ignores the very real problems that citizens face and asks them to embrace political theatre.

"Loyalty" Day implies that those who choose not to exhibit the approved public sentiment - flying the flag or pledging allegiance - are not loyal. Disloyal.

Nasty stuff, actually. This is one of the first things that totalitarian governments do; encourage appropriate public displays of loyalty to the nation and - by extension - the leadership, to create an "us versus them" group-think mentality. I'm not saying this would happen; only that this proclamation echoes those darker episodes in history.

[woo me with science]

51. Yup. Creepy as hell.

The propaganda is getting creepier and creepier.

[DevonRex]

77. It was passed into LAW in the 1950s.

36 U.S.C. § 115: (a) Designation.— May 1 is Loyalty Day. IT IS A FUCKING LAW.

[enlightenment]

84. Yes - we did a lot of truly

stupid things in the 1950s - and these McCarthy-esque laws were tops among them.

Still, just because a law was passed and not repealed it doesn't mean that our current, presumably liberal President has to dust it off and offer it up as a good thing.

[DevonRex]

88. It has been done every single year since passage. He didn't "dust it off"

You want to know why? The law actually reads:

Loyalty Day is defined as follows in 36 U.S.C. § 115:
(a) Designation.— May 1 is Loyalty Day.
(b) Purpose.— Loyalty Day is a special day for the reaffirmation of loyalty to the United States and for the recognition of the heritage of American freedom.
(c) Proclamation.— The President is requested to issue a proclamation—
(1) calling on United States Government officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on Loyalty Day; and
(2) inviting the people of the United States to observe Loyalty Day with appropriate ceremonies in schools and other suitable places.
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loyalty_Day

[enlightenment]

90. "Requested", DevonRex

is not the same word as "required".

DO look it up.

The President makes a choice. It is a poor one, but it is HIS choice.

[DevonRex]

92. Oh good fucking lord. Some people. nt

[enlightenment]

97. Since you're reduced to sputtering

metaphorical eye-rolls, I assume you've run out of expletives for the moment?

[tritsofme]

105. Some people here wouldn't be satisfied unless the President acted like a petulant child.

Lashing out and stomping his feet when he doesn't get his way. It's really getting pathetic.

[Number23]

112. ...

I honestly can't tell if you're serious. If you are...

[treestar]

197. What President is going to make the choice of taking a stand

on such a silly thing? If he had done it, the same exact posters would be trashing him for it.

[treestar]

113. Can you believe this shit?

During the second Red scare, it was made an official holiday by the U.S. Congress on July 18, 1958 (Public Law 85-529).[4][5] Following the passage of this law, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed May 1, 1959, the first official observance of Loyalty Day. [6] With the exception of Eisenhower in 1959 and 1960, Loyalty Day has been recognized with an official proclamation every year by every president since its inception as a legal holiday in 1958.[7][8]
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loyalty_Day

Could they be more obvious in their intent when they post this crap? Why didn't they "catch" Obama at it in 2009 and each year thereafter?

Credibility on these outrages is going down, down, down.

[DevonRex]

117. As God is my witness,

I am in total shock at the level of hate here. Outright derision and ridicule. I will not call it anything else anymore.

[SidDithers]

120. Yup...

It's pretty damn transparent, isn't it.

Sid

[DevonRex]

122. Yup.

It is.

[MADem]

151. Amazing that no one yelled at "Dumbya"...ain't it?

[treestar]

195. Yep that is quite interesting

Weren't they looking for outrages then?

[JanMichael]

106. There are lots of "laws" that pervert other concepts. Doesn't make it "right", nt

[kestrel91316]

111. Funny, that. Since it originates in the 1950s and was NOT invented by Obama.

Actually, it dates back to the 1920s.

Yes, it's a slap in the face to communists and the presidential proclamations starting in 1958 probably were a manifestation of the Red Scare.

Now it's tradition and historical fluff. Obama isn't responsible for the fact of its existence, dude.

[ozone_man]

136. He really has no clue.

Hands off International Workers' Day Mr. Obama.

[Poll_Blind]

14. What an utter disaster this guy is. nt

PB

[msanthrope]

95. I know--when he took the Presidential Time Machine back to 1959 and made May 1 'Loyalty Day,' I was

really bummed.

[MADem]

178. You win the thread--hilarious!!!!

I can't believe the umbrage and indignation! What's especially amusing is the angry snarking, huffing and puffing at people who

1. Know their history;

2. Know their law.

How DARE they be smart and aware and in command of the facts!!!!!! They should be MAD, I tell you, MAD!!!!!! FURIOUS!!!! At OBAMA!!!!!

Because....

Well, you know....BECAUSE!!!!

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!

This thread is sticky flypaper for the Obama Hater's Club!

[Demo_Chris]

15. Loyalty day? I think it's Obama's way of telling his supporters where HIS loyalties lie. nt

[Coyotl]

18. Vomiting now

Obama is a Republican shill some of the time.

[SammyWinstonJack]

60. corporate shill, for sure

[LiberalEsto]

19. Loyalty Day dates back to 1921

"Loyalty Day originally began as "Americanization Day" in 1921 to counter the Communists' May 1 celebration of the Russian Revolution. Through a resolution adopted in 1949, May 1 evolved into Loyalty Day. Observances began in 1950 on April 28 and climaxed May 1 when more than five million people across the nation held rallies. In 1958, Congress enacted Public Law 529 proclaiming Loyalty Day a permanent fixture on the nation's calendar."

From: http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2013/04/vfw_to_observe_loyalty_day_wed.html

Loyalty Day became a big deal to the far right during the Vietnam war and was used to oppose people who protested the war.

I remember being invited by an Estonian-American girl scout troop I belonged to to march in a Loyalty Day parade in New York City in the late 1960s. I was about 15. About five minutes after we started marching, I realized what the event was about, got totally disgusted and left the parade. What triggered my decision was seeing an old veteran attack a teenage anti-war protester on the sidelines. With absolutely no provocation except seeing the kid's peace sign, the old guy started spitting and punching, and had to be pulled off the kid by other marching veterans.

It was then that I realized my own values (and to extent, my parents') were very different from most of the Estonian-American community. A few years later I got kicked out of the NY Estonian House for wearing a jacket with an anti-war symbol. It was more than 35 years before I found a few liberals among my generation. It still bothers me tremendously when I see what knee-jerk Republicans many of the others are, even though Bill Clinton did a hell of a lot more to help Estonia regain its freedom than Nixon, Ray-gun or Bush 1 ever did.

[dixiegrrrrl]

41. Interesting that even tho it was made a law in 1958...

I do not remember any observations all during the following years
and
if it is already a law, why the need for Obama's proclamation yesterday?

[fishwax]

68. Obama has proclaimed it every year that he's been in office

as did bush ii, clinton, bush i, reagan, carter, all the way back to kennedy ...

(Edited to add: eisenhower also issued proclamations, but not every year.)

Here's JFK's second loyalty day proclamation: http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=24011

Whereas this Nation, with its traditions of freedom, liberty, and justice under law, is the inspiration of free men and of others striving for freedom and justice throughout the world; and

Whereas the strength and vigor of this Nation is clearly attributable to the steadfast devotion and loyalty of its people; and

Whereas it is fit and proper to set aside a special day each year to give affirmative expression to our unceasing devotion and loyalty to this Nation and its free institutions and to give affirmative expression to our absolute repudiation and rejection of totalitarian concepts of_ either the left or the right; and

Whereas the Congress, by a joint resolution approved July 18, 1958 (72 Stat. 369), has designated May 1 of each year as Loyalty Day, and has requested the President to issue a proclamation inviting the people of the United States to observe that day with appropriate ceremonies:

Now, Therefore, I, John F. Kennedy, President of the United States of America, do hereby call upon the people of the United States, and upon all patriotic, civic, and educational organizations to observe Tuesday, May 1, 1962, as Loyalty Day, in schools and other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies in which all of our people may join in the reaffirmation of their loyalty to the United States of America.

I also call upon the appropriate officials of the Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on that day as a manifestation of our loyalty to the Nation which that flag symbolizes.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States of America to be affixed.

DONE at the City of Washington this Fourth day of April in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and sixty-two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the one hundred and eighty-sixth.


JOHN F. KENNEDY

By the President:
DEAN RUSK,
Secretary of State

[War Horse]

82. Thanks n/t

[G_j]

48. was used to oppose people who protested the Vietnam war.

Loyalty Day became a big deal to the far right during the Vietnam war and was used to oppose people who protested the war.


.....o..k ?

[sabrina 1]

160. Well, this is 2013. Time to move forward. The 'commies' are over, although some people do live

in the long distant past for some reason. Almost as if they miss them.

We are in a different world, and Labor is a huge issue today having more to do with predatory Capitalism than the 'commies'.

[LiberalEsto]

194. Absolutely

I think Loyalty Day is a far-right crock

[magical thyme]

21. May 1 is Beltane and no government proclamation can change that

Loyalty Day my ass. Loyal to what? The United Corporation of America? meh.

[dixiegrrrrl]

124. I have to confess I do not know what Beltane is.

Pls educate me....

[magical thyme]

129. one of the 8 Great Sabbats of wiccan and pagan religions

and one of the four seasonal celebrations. It actually starts the evening of April 30 and runs through May 1.

The origin of May Day, marking the midpoint between the spring equinox and summer solstice. A day when the Maypole is erected and danced around to celebrate fertility and the coming crops, and when cattle are passed through the cleansing smoke between a pair of celebratory bonfires before being turned out to summer pastures.

[dixiegrrrrl]

130. a dim memnory is stirring....

( shaking off dust and years from that part of my brain)..

yes, I seem to recall hearing of it.
thanks for the info!

[magical thyme]

135. some of the other Sabbats may help jog your memory....

Samhain (aka All Hallow's Eve...or Hallowe'en, midpoint between fall equinox and winter's solstice); Yule (aka winter's solstice); Imbolc (mid point between winter's solstice and spring equinox, aka Groundhog's Day); Beltane; summer solstice; Lughnasadh or Lammas (midpoint between summer solstice and fall equinox); fall equinox.

[11 Bravo]

22. The GOP responded by introducing a bill designating May 2 as

Stab Your Best Friend In The Back And Grudge-Fuck Their Significant Other Day.

[freshwest]

145. And this is May 2nd. GMTA.

[deutsey]

23. I'll stick with International Labor Day and celebrating spring n/t

[vi5]

27. It's a fitting move.

Anti-labor, pro blind fealty.

It's consistent with our prez's priorities and philosophies.

[bowens43]

28. Fuck that shit obama......

[DevonRex]

78. This is a law passed in the 1950s. Good God. nt

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

29. Wait..wait. He's actually serious about this nonsense?

[dixiegrrrrl]

37. Actually and very publicly serious, it seems.

The timing is interesting.....of all the past May 1 in Obama's terms in office
why THIS May?
Wonder if the worldwide protests and demonstratons are making some folks uneasy.

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

40. I prefer this version for May Day.

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=the+internationale&mid=03A47E8A12D3BA3818C703A47E8A12D3BA3818C7&view=detail&FORM=VIRE5

[DevonRex]

80. This was passed into law in the 1950s. But somebody here decided to

smear Obama with it.

[enlightenment]

89. You certainly are in a froth about this.

So I'll repeat what I said to you up thread.

There are many, many laws on the books - a lot of them are no longer relevant, are outdated, or simply wrong for modern society. The existence of an outdated law does not force the President to make a proclamation reminding everyone it exists.

You may think you are defending the President with these posts, but you aren't. You are actually making him look like a completely ineffectual tool - a puppet whose actions are totally controlled by others. Is that what you think? That the President has no ability to act independently; to decide for himself whether or not he wants to align himself with this almost 60 year old law by offering a toothless public proclamation encouraging people to recognize it?

Interesting defense. Indeed.

[DevonRex]

91. LOL. Read my reply up there. nt

[enlightenment]

93. I did.

Try reading mine.

[treestar]

114. Every President has done it every year since 1960

so this is an attempt at a false outrage. The attempt has been called out.

[enlightenment]

134. Pot and kettle.

Lots of false outrage in this thread - certainly.

[Number23]

116. For God's sake, READ and stop spouting inanities

http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=2788851

You accuse other posters of making the President look like an "ineffectual tool" because they are telling the truth. So what do your ignorant posts make the president look like? Or more importantly, how do they make you look?

[sabrina 1]

161. Absolutely correct, this is way outdated, definitely time to move forward. After we are able to

move forward from recent war crimes so I don't see why we have to go back to the '20s when it comes to Labor Issues.

[City Lights]

30. Shouldn't he have said, "what's left of our Constitution?" nt

[truedelphi]

215. Obama is the guy who when

Making some address as President, referred to our Constitutional Rights as traditions. Traditions? Eating turkey at Thanksgiving is a tradition; so is getting new clothes for Easter.

My Constitutional Rights are not traditions. But I know the neo-Dems and PNAC crowd is behind that phrase. They want us all believing that we must first proclaim loyalty to the state, and only then may we think about what rights they might offer us.

[Marrah_G]

33. ..........

[MindPilot]

34. As Orwellian as "homeland"

I would love to see Obama start to walk back some of this stuff that has made 1984 look like an operations manual, but he seems to like it as much as his predecessor.

[truedelphi]

222. Sad that come every Presidential election day

We don't get to choose between a candidate that would pledge to roll back the "Homeland" "Terror Watch" and the world is your enemy aspects of this NWO and instead both candidates are basically alike in their support of the endless wars, endless spending for the militiary etc.

[WillyT]

35. Oh... BARF !!!

[bunnies]

36. I thought this was a joke.

Now I just think its disgusting. Loyalty day? Sounds like something N. Korea would do.

[dixiegrrrrl]

38. But...but...N.Korea does not have all the rights and "freedoms" that we did..

errr.......oooops......I meant...we "do"....

[bunnies]

39. & I especially love our new freedom...

to be spied on by drones. Its swell!

[Warren DeMontague]

42. If it's supposed to be a sop to the right, the irony is it will probably make them freak out.

LOYALTY?!?!?!?? LOYALTY to our SOCIALIST KENYAN OVERLORDZZZZZZZZZ!!!!!

[Rex]

45. Oh you know it! This will have a complete other meaning to the Teabaggers!

They will clutch their pistol grips that much tighter. Probably go to bed spooning an AK or M-16 with dreams of Obama riding into town fer their guuuuuuuuuuuuunnsss!!!!

[Warren DeMontague]

46. There's a lesson in there, somewhere

but fuck if I'm gonna try to parse it out.

[G_j]

44. sort of feels like the left is getting poked in the eye

Last edited Thu May 2, 2013, 07:26 PM - Edit history (2)

on edit: though I realize now through some education here, that all the presidents do it. I have possibly a vague memory of maybe reading about it in HS. I suspect I am not alone in that.

[Rex]

47. I'm so use to it now that it hardly registers anymore.

nt.

[G_j]

49. in particular, this feels like a deliberate

Last edited Thu May 2, 2013, 05:36 PM - Edit history (1)

move/message to us.

[Rex]

50. Yeah I think it is.

However, the GOP/tea party nutballs will probably see it as Obama forcing them to take loyalty oaths (they should know about that since the GOP is into such things) and probably crap another pantsload in fear and gun grabbing paranoia.

[Number23]

118. Why would the president need to poke "the left" in the eye

when you guys are absolutely magnificent at doing it (as well as blowing off your own feet, hands, ass etc) to yourselves?

[DJ13]

54. He intends to keep poking us in the eyes until we're blind to what he's doing

[cali]

53. fucking sick shit

loyalty day?

the president should read EM Forster's famous essay "What I Believe" He has a lot to say about this kind of crap.

and fuck no, barack honey, I am not engaging in this kind of disgusting charade.

[fishwax]

56. I'm not really a fan of loyalty day, but Obama didn't designate it such

The law designating it loyalty day goes back decades, and every president issues a proclamation of loyalty day.

[G_j]

57. I know, but why is it now A PROCLAMATION ?

From his wording it sounds like he's declaring something new.

[fishwax]

63. there's been a proclamation every year for the past 50+ years

Here's his proclamation from 2010, for instance: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/presidential-proclamation-loyalty-day

Here's w's in 2005: http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/news/releases/2005/04/20050429-19.html

[G_j]

69. interesting

I read the history but had no idea presidents continued to make proclamations on it. Thanks

[fishwax]

128. yeah, it's a weird thing. I don't think I've ever thought about it outside of DU

but the subject has come up a few times on DU in the past, as a source of mockery/outrage. Here's last year's thread : http://www.democraticunderground.com/1002638731

Anyway, to me and mine it'll always be May Day and always about the workers .

[G_j]

131. that was a trip

last years go at it..lol
I find the name (Loyalty Day) offensive, for beginners.
But I've learned something new today.

[redqueen]

72. Thanks to you and the others

who provided the facts about this latest round of ...

[dixiegrrrrl]

110. Tell ya what..I will change the headline...

from "designates" to "proclaims"
since he is signing a proclamation.
How's that sound?

[Luminous Animal]

58. I'll stick with International Worker's Day.

[grntuscarora]

153. +1.

nt

[truebluegreen]

61. I think as highly of Loyalty Day

as I do of the PATRIOT Act and Homeland Security.

[idwiyo]

62. "Loyalty day" my arse

[ProSense]

64. FYI

Loyalty Day: http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022788782

[winter is coming]

67. LOL, that's gonna sink like a rock. n/t

[DevonRex]

74. 36 U.S.C. § 115: (a) Designation.— May 1 is Loyalty Day. IT IS A FUCKING LAW.

[Taverner]

79. WTF?????

It is Mayday

It always will be

Fuck the running dog capitalists

[DevonRex]

81. This was passed in the 1950s ferchrisake. Eisenhower proclaimed it.

Jesus fucking Christ.

[Taverner]

141. WTF??? Jesus FUCK we are still suffering from McCarthyism!

[DevonRex]

143. Every single President, every single year has made this proclamation.

Better watch out NOW though!!! All the sudden it's SCARY!!!! Run AWAY!!!! The Big Bad AMERICANS are gonna GET YOU!!!!!!! [URL=http://www.sherv.net/emoticons.html][IMG][/IMG][/URL]

[Taverner]

147. No, I'm just sick of the way McCarthyism and Blue Laws have stayed kicking and screaming

No, it's not a conspiracy

But it's stupid

You gotta admit that

[Earth_First]

85. How quaint.

How lovely that we're encouraged to pledge our loyalty to a Republic hell bent on screwing the American worker.

Pass.

[tularetom]

87. When I was a kid my only question about Loyalty Day would be

Do we get out of school? No? Then who gives a shit.

Now my question is - Is it loyalty day? Who gives a shit.

[pampango]

94. Do we care about 'facts' any more or are we becoming factless anti-republicans.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loyalty_Day

The holiday was first observed in 1921, during the First Red Scare. It was originally called "Americanization Day," and it was intended to replace the May 1 ("May Day&quot celebration of the International Workers' Day, which commemorates the 1886 Haymarket Massacre in Chicago.

Loyalty Day is celebrated with parades and ceremonies in several U.S. communities, like Batavia, Illinois, although many people in the United States remain unaware of it. Although a legal holiday, it is not a federal holiday, and is not commonly observed.

During the second Red scare, it was made an official holiday by the U.S. Congress on July 18, 1958 (Public Law 85-529). Following the passage of this law, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed May 1, 1959, the first official observance of Loyalty Day. With the exception of Eisenhower in 1959 and 1960, Loyalty Day has been recognized with an official proclamation every year by every president since its inception as a legal holiday in 1958.

[dixiegrrrrl]

100. I just posted that he had signed the Proclamation...

don't shoot the messenger...

[Number23]

119. Much of GD hasn't cared about facts for a while

Just endless, frothing, mindless, embarrassingly stupid rage. Gotta do something to keep the recs (which I have long believed are the ONLY thing many do care about) coming.

[nadinbrzezinski]

140. Read what you wrote

And why it became a holiday.

It is not surprising, but like "under God" in the pledge...this is a creature of the Cold War.

In the meantime I spent my May Day celebrating workers, taking to the streets...and marching. Some of the speeches were positively anti imperial and anti capitalist. Good thing my counterparts don't speak Spanish.

[SidDithers]

96. 1959...

Sid

[socialist_n_TN]

101. My loyalty always has and always will be to the international working class....

NOT to imperialist warmongers.

[Matariki]

103. Do not like.

And it's disrespectful to our Ancestors who FOUGHT for worker's rights.

[markiv]

104. 'now go die for corporate profits' nt

[markiv]

107. '2 minutes loyalty' every day, would be better

everyone at their computer, at the appointed time, staring into the webcam, with spot checks for sincerity of facial expressions

[kestrel91316]

108. I think YOU get a FAIL for not correcting your misleading post when it has been pointed out

to you on another thread that Loyalty Day was invented in the 1920s and every president since 1958 has declared May 1 Loyalty Day as a matter of protocol.

Not surprising coming from you, the one with 4 r's rather than 2.

Correct it or delete it. You have got your facts completely wrong, you know you are wrong, and you are deliberately slandering Obama.

[treestar]

115. +1

[Fire Walk With Me]

186. Obama signed it. No one forced him to. I must as such take it as part and parcel of his intent. n/t

[Summer Hathaway]

190. You are obviously truly outraged

at this idea of Loyalty Day.

Could you post the petitions you've started/signed objecting to it over the years, and the OPs you've posted about it expressing your outrage before now?

If a president's signing of it is "part and parcel of their intent", could you post links to your vitriol aimed at every president who has signed it since it became law?

TIA!!!!!!!!!!!!

[ocpagu]

193. What kind of argument is that?

n/t

[Summer Hathaway]

206. It isn't an argument.

It's an invitation for the poster to explain why it is suddenly an OUTRAGE! for Obama to have done something he has done every May 1st since he took office, and that his predecessors have also done every year for decades.

A lot of us are curious as to why certain posters are downright vitriolic now about an issue they never spoke up about before.

Wouldn't want to think that it only became an issue when perceived as something they can get on Obama's back about ... no, I'm sure that's NOT the case. I'm positive that all of the posters who are currently on a rampage about "Loyalty Day" have been equally incensed about it in all previous years, and their many, many posts about it have simply gone unnoticed.

Yeah, that's the ticket!

[treestar]

198. Now see, it was not a problem before this year!

It was OK for Carter and Clinton and Bush to proclaim the day every May 1. In fact it was OK for Obama to do it for 5 years. But this year? Outraged, I tell ya!

[Catherina]

121. Loyalty 4 what? Stagnant Wages? Unemployment? Corporate Profits? Homelessness? Banks? War? Torture?

This is positively Orwellian.

Loyalty as in bend over and stay bent over.

Do the hundred illegally and criminally imprisoned victims at Guantanamo Bay have to celebrate this to? Wave a few flags around?

Barf/

It's official. The spirit of Reagan lives.

[DevonRex]

125. Oh, go ahead and PRETEND you haven't seen this has been DEBUNKED all over the thread.

Good god.

[MadrasT]

123. In Lancaster PA where I grew up May 1 has always been Loyalty Day

[ocpagu]

192. That's very sad.

n/t

[Addison]

126. Deeply disturbing

Loyalty is such a loaded word. So is patriotism.

We all know May Day is about workers. Who are workers supposed to be most loyal to? Their boss? Their country, which is now run by their boss?

Very, very disappointing, Mr. Obama. Again.

[msanthrope]

127. Your concern is noted. Please feel free to share more of your concerns, and enjoy your stay. nt

[Addison]

132. Thanks, I will

And I love your transgender username -- pretty cool!

[msanthrope]

138. Ms. is indicative of transgender? You enjoy your stay! nt

[Addison]

209. Ms. = Miss, and anthropos = man; thus your username means Miss Man

You did realize that, didn't you?

Or perhaps you meant to use "misanthrope" with an "i", which means hater of mankind. But I'm not sure what it would mean without the "i". (Hate everyone but yourself? Hate only yourself?) Either way I'd stick with the transgender meaning, it's less apt to be perceived as hateful. And I'm sure you're not a hateful person.

[Oilwellian]

210. ROFL

Welcome to DU!

[dixiegrrrrl]

137. Welcome to DU.

[Safetykitten]

133. Was the loyalty oath to him or the Federal Reserve Bank?

[nadinbrzezinski]

139. With Americans and immigrants taking to the streets

On May Day...we can't have that...no siree.. You got Labor Day, not an Ameircan holiday we have tried to bury, but slowly it's coming back

[Arctic Dave]

142. Call it what it is.

McCarthyism Day.

[dixiegrrrrl]

144. Certainly sounds as if a 60 something year old law has become very outdated.

and the times, they are achanging....

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

146. When all else fails, wave the flag and look constipated with patriotic sincerity.

[LeftInTX]

148. Happy McCarthy Death Day - May 2nd!!!

He died May 2, 1957

Can we get Obama to sign a proclamation?

[JoePhilly]

149. Every day on DU is now proclaimed to be Obama Outrage Day.

At least it seems that way.

[MADem]

154. What I LOVE ABOUT THIS THREAD!!!!!!!!

It certainly points out the "Jump on Obama for any Goddamned Reason or None at All" crowd. It's a Flies To Honey exercise!

They couldn't even bother to run to Google for a little fact-checking/history lesson before shooting their mouths off.

If we asked for a list of mindless agitators who are determined to accuse Obama of anything and everything, for any or no reason, we wouldn't have gotten one. But all ya have to do is accuse "King Barack" of something, like signing a proclamation that has been put out for longer than many people here have LIVED, and BOOM goes the dynamite--there's your list of fact-free shameless scolds, all in one neat location!

Talk about showing one's hand--or one's behind, as it were!

It's not like we didn't have an idea before, but all doubt is now removed with this thread. There should be some embarrassment, but that takes a sense of shame and contrition, I suppose.

[JoePhilly]

156. very true. nt

[sabrina 1]

162. Oh stop. This is 2013 and a near century year old law is what people are using to defend the use of

a word that is not relevant at all to today's International Labor force? Communism is dead as far as being a threat to anything. For today's Labor Force everywhere, it is predatory Capitalism that is the threat. See Europe, and here.

I am sick to death of the attempt to silence people every time they express genuine feelings about policies coming from the people WE VOTED FOR. I don't care what Republicans say or do as far as being surprised by them. I expect NOTHING from them, I didn't support them, didn't and would never vote for them, but we support Democrats to stop Republicans from further destroying this country.

You can invent all the reasons you like as to why Democrats are upset with 'cuts to SS, NOT coming from a Republican President, but a Democratic President, ending the ban on Offshore Drilling, pushing Bush policies and even enhancing them, such as the NDAA eg.

These silly games, attempting to read something other than genuine reasons for why Democrats expect a Democrat to act like a Democrat got old a long, long time ago. Maybe give the lecture to the President, tell him he is making life difficult for you by upsetting the very people who elected him. WE are not the ones to blame.

He could have used a word like Commitment eg, which would be far more appropriate than 'Loyalty' regarding the issues facing today's Labor Forces. Just once admit that he is human and can and does make some major mistakes. You won't change any minds by making false allegations against people.

To many people that word has very bad connotations, people whose recent ancestors suffered under totalitarian regimes demanding 'loyalty'. He is an intelligent man, which is why we expect more of him.

[MADem]

166. Do point us to your threads of complaint about this proclamation in years past.

Surely, since you're just SO UPSET about it now, you were upset about it in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012....

I'd love to read your rants against Obama putting his John Hancock on the paper--as required by a law passed by Congress-- in years past, as well as your outraged comments about Bush signing this boiler-plate document in 2008 when you joined DU.

It's so wonderful we have these DU archives, so these things are readily available.

Surely you were annoyed before...or is it just ... NOW?

And surely, since you're so outraged and all, you've written to your representatives asking them to repeal this law, yes? So Obama doesn't have to issue a proclamation anymore, as required by law?

Why don't you provide us with your letters/emails, so others who feel as you do can copy them and send them to THEIR representatives, in order to get this awful law that is bringing down society as we know it repealed--right effing NOW!!

[sabrina 1]

167. Why don't you link to whatever it is you are rambling on about? IF I had seen this in the past

I would most certainly have objected to it. Did it ever occur to you that people don't spend all day and night on DU and do not see everything that is posted here?

What a lame response, I expected better of you frankly.

[MADem]

168. You need to read the thread--there's no need for links.

You apparently don't understand that Obama signed a proclamation that has been signed by every sitting President, every year, for the last five decades.

You've had fifty years to get irritated about this.

It's a proclamation that is the consequence of a law, passed by Congress.

You don't have to spend all day and night reading DU, you just have to read the full thread before you chase me round the board, yelling at me. Then, you'd know.

I'll bid you adieu...AGAIN: http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=2790946

[sabrina 1]

172. None of that answers my question. YOU accused ME of not doing something and I asked you for

links to what you are talking about. The President should have referred to this day as it is now known, period. He also could point out that this proclamation is outdated and there is no need to sign it now as it is not relevant to today's Labor Force.

But that would take courage, and courage is not something we see much of in DC. So no surprise I suppose, but it would be nice every once in a while to see even a glimmer of it.

Someone will one day have the courage to stand up for the people and simply speak the truth. I think even opponents would respect such a person.

A person who can think for themselves and speak for themselves, a leader iow. Who doesn't just follow protocol especially when it is outdated, irrelevant and insulting to millions of workers, not just here but around the world.

And IF I had seen any OPs regarding this during any administration, I would have commented, negatively, on it.

[MADem]

177. "Law" isn't optional. It's the law of the land. You'd certainly pitch a fit if Dumbya flouted the

law. Or maybe you wouldn't--I don't really know; you haven't had a nice thing to say about any Democrat to me this entire evening.

Now you want Obama to flout the law? To make decrees, like a dictator, to just wing it, and say to hell with the legislative branch of government? Talk about situational!

He's not the king, you know.

Read the thread. Not sure what "links" you need to get the bubble on this.

Unless you want me to give you links like this: http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=2788851

You REALLY have a problem with this proclamation? Write to the people who create the law and gripe about it, instead of flinging shit at Obama. Ask them to repeal it, and then let us all know how you got on.

Yet again--good night.

[Number23]

191. ..

Hell yeah

[treestar]

202. King Barack should just use the bully pulpit to get this changed

to International Worker's Day. !!!!!!11111!!!

[treestar]

201. People you voted for like Eisenhower?

How about LBJ? Where is his share in this outrage??????????

[Bobbie Jo]

165. Nailed it. nt

[MADem]

169. Why thank you, Bobbie Jo! nt

[Summer Hathaway]

181. Oh, you are SO right!

It's been incredibly entertaining to watch the outrage-de-jour go from "Obama made up his own Loyalty Day holiday" to - when that argument was proven a massive fail - "Obama shouldn't be following precedent, or the law, anyway."

Here's an invite to all of those who expressed their poutrage in the last twenty-four hours: Please post links to your May 1st rants in previous years on this topic. We would all be most interested to read them.

[MADem]

183. What it is!!! +1000! nt

[Number23]

189. MADem, I have to say that you are TOTALLY enjoying yourself in this thread and the others

I am tired, truly TIRED of all of the shit that has been allowed to be said about this president who I believe is a smart, good man who has done a hell of a lot of good things for this country. I have not approved of or agreed with everything he's done, but I still STAUNCHLY support this president.

But this Loyalty Day shit has been too much. It is proof beyond all doubt how unhinged, unfair and UNEDUCATED so many of the president's incessant critics are on this web site. Half of these people sound as though they have been knocked over the head, they sound so completely deranged.

But looking at you laughing your way through these idiotic threads and the predictable, perpetual gnashing has made me realize that these people ARE sort of funny. Probably not in the way that they've intended but funny nonetheless and certainly not anything to be taken seriously. Just wanted to thank you for that.

[MADem]

211. We've got just a few choices, here!

We can get mad at 'em...and why do that? Who gets mad at the puppy that pooped on the rug? The poor thing can't help it, he didn't KNOW any better...show him where the Wee Wee pad is, and move on!

We can cry about how uneducated they are--but that won't get them the education they need; they can't be bothered to read the detailed explanations so helpfully provided by other members here, so they certainly aren't going to take advantage of any free civics classes--in their neighborhoods or on TV!

The only solution is to laugh at them. Laugh at the absurd pomposity, the doubling and tripling down, the hectoring, the insults that are delivered with an air of ignorant superiority, and after we're done laughing, well...we've got us a list of people we know just aren't the brightest lights on the Democratic tree.

Might come in useful come the next Presidential election--at least we'll know, based on these historical reference threads, what the knowledge levels of some of the carpers are!


I always thought Democrats were more aware of issues, better educated on civics and government, and, in general, smarter than Republicans. These stupid remarks prove me wrong, unless we've got a few wolves in sheep's clothing here and there...!

[Number23]

220. 'absurd pomposity' is just about the most adequate word I can think of to describe these folks

Arrogance is bad enough but arrogance combined with what should be CRIPPLING stupidity is just too much.

I used to think the same as you -- that Democrats were smarter, more informed and just better people than the Repubs. But after five years on DU, I know that is no longer the case. I stopped thinking that way pretty much about 20 minutes into Obama's first term, truth be told. It makes me know my decision to be an independent was the right one. I know that it was the right thing for me to do then and now.

It's a shame this web site actually appears to do more harm to Democratic/liberal principles than anything else. It has often and loudly been lamented that if the good folks in GD spent 1/100th as much time lambasting Repubs as they do Democrats, this web site would turn around in a heartbeat. But considering that there was a beyond absurd post on the Greatest page just yesterday once again blaming the Democrats, and ONLY the Democrats, while once again letting the Repubs off the hook, nothing is going to change around here. The OP actually seemed PISSED that people were blaming the Republicans for the sad state of affairs in Washington. I mean, if that ain't trolling what the hell is?

[MADem]

221. It's always worse between election years, too.

I sometimes wonder if we have a load of freak republic-nuts 'having a laugh' and building up their post count so they can come across as 'credible' during election contests.

I just don't 'get' the shit-stirring, either! You'd think they'd have...lives!

[treestar]

200. This thread is indeed the tipping point for the preponderance of the evidence

if not reasonable doubt!

[treestar]

199. Heck, today must be really short on outrages!

This is the best they could do? A holiday no one ever has heard of or celebrates, legislated into being in 1958, subject of a boring recognition published by the President du jour annually on that date - is something we are NOW to get mad about and specifically at the current President! This is outrage fail for which the Outrage Hunter should get a very low grade.

[diabeticman]

152. Personally it too close to the "Loyality oaths" Republicans in W Administration tried

to get people to sign

[Fantastic Anarchist]

157. Fuck that shit.

[Brigid]

163. I don't care how May 1 came to be called "Loyalty Day,"

Or how long ago it started. This country long ago abandoned me to whatever fate might befall me, and left me to deal with it as best I might. It has left me with nothing to be loyal to. I'll save my thoughts for my fellow workers everywhere who get treated like crap.

[MADem]

170. Why not get off your butt and work to repeal the law that requires the proclamation, instead

of sitting there, helplessly, stewing in your own juices?

It's YOUR representatives who helped to pass this law mandating the proclamation, and it's YOUR representatives who can work to repeal it.

But they won't do shit unless you spend more time complaining TO them, instead of sighing on an internet discussion board about what you DON'T care about--why not spend that energy working for change?

How hard is it to send three emails--if it really means that much to you?

[Brigid]

179. Did you read the part where I said . . .

I don't care?

[MADem]

180. Your very post belies that assertion. I'd say you DO care, if you bother to gripe about it. nt

[wickerwoman]

171. Only if May 2-April 31st get to be "Critical Thinking Days".

We need a hell of a lot more of that in the US than we need loyalty.

[truedelphi]

217. Thanks for that great observation, wickerwoman. n/t

[Cali_Democrat]

174. I'm not a fan of "Loyalty Day" myself

It all seems very Orwellian to me.

[Blue_In_AK]

176. What do I think of Loyalty Day?

You really don't want to know. I have a hard enough time saying the Pledge of Allegiance.



ed. And whether or not it's a law is irrelevant to me. We've had lots of stupid laws over the course of our history as a nation, and this is one of them. There are already who knows how many "patriotic" holidays...we don't need another one.

[Fire Walk With Me]

182. Blatant, utterly sickening attempt to make us forget May 1 is WORKER'S RIGHTS DAY!

People died protesting for the 8-hour, 5-day work week, among other rights. Google: Pinkerton. These rights were earned by the people with their lives. They were not given by generous, loving overlords with our best interests at heart. Anyone dishonoring them can (massive string of accusative profanity and defamation).

Perhaps Obama could do a little work HONORING the dead and living workers? NO? No, only corporations:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022445620

[Summer Hathaway]

187. Ever heard of "Labor Day"?

I hear it's a holiday to honor the workers of the country, and recognize their ongoing and invaluable contributions to the country's success and well-being.

But, of course, Obama never recognizes the day set aside in their honor - nor has any president before him since the holiday was first declared.

Since having been signed into law, "Loyalty Day" has been around for decades. Funny how no one objected to that reality - before now.

Could it be that these better-informed-than-the-average-person DUers never raised the topic because they didn't even KNOW about it - until a certain group thought they had 'discovered' something to beat Obama over the head with?

[ProSense]

196. That's just

"Blatant, utterly sickening attempt to make us forget May 1 is WORKER'S RIGHTS DAY!"

...silly.

March 2013: U.S. Department of Labor Celebrates 100 Years of Helping American Workers
http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022789805

[Fire Walk With Me]

185. Forget worker's rights day. FORGET. FORGET.

What's next, a loyalty oath?

[msanthrope]

203. Really?? We forget Labor Day?? Maybe you do. nt

[NYC Liberal]

188. I'm all for it. The proclamation says it perfectly.

[darkangel218]

204. Loyalty to who?

[KG]

205. "Loyalty Day"

[marshall]

208. Loyalty to whom?

It's. confusing use of terms wrapped around a good idea. Loyalty implies a hierarchical structure that Labor Day was meant to counter.

[truedelphi]

214. So Pres Obama, one question, if you would, Sir:

For those of us who proclaim their loyalty, do we get one of those spiffy sets of gold cufflinks like you gave your buddy Jaimie Dimon?

[truedelphi]

216. BTW, at the risk of repeating myself:

Obama is the guy who when as President and making a speech, deliberately referred to our Constitutional Rights as "traditions." Traditions? Eating turkey at Thanksgiving is a tradition; so is getting new clothes for Easter.

My Constitutional Rights are not traditions. But I know the neo-Dems and PNAC crowd is behind that phrase. They want us all believing that we must first proclaim loyalty to the state, and only then may we think about what rights they might offer us.

[ProSense]

218. Here,

"Obama is the guy who when as President and making a speech, deliberately referred to our Constitutional Rights as "traditions." Traditions? Eating turkey at Thanksgiving is a tradition; so is getting new clothes for Easter...My Constitutional Rights are not traditions. But I know the neo-Dems and PNAC crowd is behind that phrase. They want us all believing that we must first proclaim loyalty to the state, and only then may we think about what rights they might offer us."

...proclamations are traditions, not Constitutional rights.

151 - Proclamation 2310 - Thanksgiving Day
November 19, 1938

By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

I, Franklin D. Roosevelt, President of the United States of America, do hereby designate Thursday, the twenty-fourth of November, 1938, as a day of general thanksgiving.

Our Fathers set aside such a day as they hewed a nation from the primeval forest. The observance was consecrated when George Washington issued a Thanksgiving proclamation in the first year of his presidency. Abraham Lincoln set apart "a Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens."

Thus from our earliest recorded history, Americans have thanked God for their blessings. In our deepest natures, in our very souls, we, like all mankind since the earliest origin of mankind, turn to God in time of trouble and in time of happiness. "In God We Trust."

For the blessings which have been ours during the present year we have ample cause to be thankful.

Our lands have yielded a goodly harvest, and the toiler in shop and mill receives a more just return for his labor.

We have cherished and preserved our democracy.

We have lived in peace and understanding with our neighbors and have seen the world escape the impending disaster of a general war.

In the time of our fortune it is fitting that we offer prayers for unfortunate people in other lands who are in dire distress at this our Thanksgiving Season.

Let us remember them in our families and our churches when, on the day appointed, we offer

http://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/ws/?pid=15575

[truedelphi]

219. I think that you totally misread my statements.

Obama made a speech regarding our Constitutional rights. He may have made another speech about Thanksgiving - that is not a speech I am referring to.

Since he is a Constitutional Scholar, supposedly, a person might expect his remarks to be about how sacred these rights are, how important they are. Instead, during that speech regarding our rights, he only referred to these rights as "traditions." That outlook brands him as the most neo-Dem President we have ever had.