Now the hard part...

I have no doubt that the process of closing Gitmo will be a complicated one, to say the least. In fact, I anticipate it will be the source of endless tension and frustration across all levels of government. My mind conjures up wild scenarios of the heated dialogues and shady negotiations that will ensue. Given the possible repercussions and long road ahead, the author is correct in pointing out that the hard part is still to come.

However, the decision to close Gitmo was long overdue. This prison has come to represent the self-righteous arrogance and sinister (yet sadly banal) pits to which the US will stoop in its misguided (and futile) attempts to maintain itself as the center of the world. So long as the US allows the existence of this prison and other venues like it, our country will be compromising its own security and that of its citizens.

The degrading torture practices that were carried out in Gitmo, the unconscionable abuses that occurred within its grounds, the harmful ideology that this dark America institution has perpetuated…all of this and so much more that is associated with Gitmo ultimately serves to undermine any American efforts to realize peace and justice at home or abroad. Keeping Guantanamo Bay prison camp in operation breeds misunderstanding, hatred, and terrorism—much like any other fear-based American institution and policy.

I will be sure to keep informed of how this all unveils, of how the matter of relocating current detainees is handled and how the trials are pursued. For if the new administration is sincere in sending messages of change and unity…if it is determined in following through with gestures towards reconciliation with the global community…then the closing of Gitmo is a step in the right direction.

But how they plan to address the consequences of this decision is not only one of many testing grounds for our leaders but one for the American people, as well. Whether and how we decide to hold them accountable will be a measure of our values, character, and integrity as a nation.

Indeed, we have some ways to go yet.

After reading the article about Gitmo prison one of the issues mentioned that caught my attention was the issue of torture. It mentioned that some prisoners believed to be associated with the attacks of 9/11 admitted their participation after being tortured. Torture is a very controversial subject. There are many who are opposed to it, while others support it only under necessary conditions. I believe torture can never be justified. It is a cruel and horrbile thing. However those who has attacked innocent Americans and have vowed to destroy our country will not show the same consideration for our soldiers.
The article also mentioned that because their admitance was done under torture that they may have to be charged on lesser crimes. The idea that men who plotted to kill thousands of innocent Americans, are going to get less of a penality than they deserve is frustrating. Those who died in the 9/11 attacks deserve justice.
As for the issue of closing the prision, I agree with the republicans who think a plan should be organized before any official action is taken.

Well thats all I got =)
B-Loove

Stephanie

First blog post of the new semester

I think this arcticle is both interesting and capable of spurring some good conversation. Please remember to be respectful of eachother.

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1872158-2,00.html?iid=perma_share

You may reply either by commenting or posting your own entry.

new semester

hello,

I hope that everyone had a relaxing break and was not too stressed out about the upcoming finals. I have been back at school since Wednesday and it has been so quiet and I cant wait for everyone to be back.

over break I started to sew some bibs for a local house on long island that is a full time home for disabled children. In total I made 18 bibs and I was planning to make much more but it was very time consuming so they will be made during the next school break. it was a lot of fun because I was able to really do what I wanted so i was able to experiment with different sizes, shapes and iIalso go to pick out the fabric and towel patterns.

see everyone soon

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

So far my semester break has been fun but I'm kind of ready to go back to Siena. I met and spoke with rapper T.I. in person and went to a concert he performed at in my area. (I have video footage! Problem, I broke the cord to connect my phone to my laptop...yikes! lol)

I currently work at the Long Island Children's Museum, which is my high school job so I can gain more hours. Its a really fun job but because of the recession, I don't really have that many hours which sucks but I think I need to stop being a workaholic and relax before the semester.

I can't wait to go back to the Boys and Girls Club of Albany. I hope they did not forget about me. :-D

Anyway, I hope everyone enjoy the rest of the break and see you soon. ;-)

Bonner Love, 

Tai

Ohhhhhh boyyy. 

I hope everyone's vacation is going well.  Mine has been great.  Santa came and I survived through the New Year!!! =)

So I've been doing a little community service lately.  I have been delivering the free food that our community gives out to the old peoples' homes.  I did it back when I was home for about 3 years so it's nice to do it again.  I enjoy seeing all of the old people and eating the many cookies that they make for me.  

I miss the Boys and Girls Club and a miss my little a lot!  She calls me all the time... I can't wait to see her.

I am excited to go back and rearrange my room because one of my roommates is transferring.  Although I am excited, I am def. going to miss her.  My roommates and I got very close in the first semester.  I guess you don't really have a choice when you live with someone and you spend twenty-four/seven with them.  Anyways, I am excited but sad to see her go.

Well thats all I have to share for now.  I hope everyone is enjoying break & studying for any finals they may have to go back for! =)

Bonnnerrrr Love