to those that feel this is not an appropriate place for kids

[AmandaRuth]

Listen, they are surrounded by right wing rhetoric, which comes from anywhere and everywhere. If Air America is not available in their area, this may be the only place to see/read progressive policies debated, especially if they live in a red area, as we do. Kids want to learn and want to feel optimism. They want truth, and want to be involved. Besides repukes grab them early, why can't we? I want my daughter to understand democratic principles including free speech. I want her to understand the difference between the political parties.

Where else but here can they read arguments about the benefits of a living wage, or the necessity of taking care of the environment. I can tell her that the national media including hate radio are just spew units with pre-purchased agendas, but here she can read about specific examples of this and relate that to policies that affect her life. If a kid is reading DU it is because they want to know about these things and are interested in the political process.

Let me give you a specific example - she is in 7th grade, very fundy area, having a discussion with another 7th grade boy. He said that all gay people should be shot - She asked him if he was Christian, (they all are up here), he said yes, She asked him if he believed in Extreme Jesus or Liberal Jesus. That led to more discussion, and I think that the boy left with a little more humility than he had when he started talking to her. Extreme Jesus and Liberal Jesus are terms she picked up here. She often posts as MiniAmandaRuth.

And note, no where did I say that language or topics should be censored. Oftentimes adult topics give me an excuse to bring up things that we should be discussing, like the time I had to explain what a beer bong was, not that I have had any personal experience with that . :) Just something to think about - Besides she says she wants to run for office some day, so in 20 years, you may be voting for her. :) :) So lay off the kids...... :)