Photo provided.
Here's what Jody Trestman had to say about the event in an email this morning:
Our peaceful demonstraton was on Tuesday October 16, 2007 at 5:30pm in front of Bristol City Hall. This was our response to Congress's Thursday vote to override President Bush's Vito on SCHIP. We, in attendance are aware that our 30 person demostration will not change votes in the congress, thankfully our representatives are in favor of the increase funding of this program; our goal was to increase awareness of this issue to the public.
This program is not just for people who are low or no income but for all americans who struggle everyday to pay high insurance premiums, while the insurance companies lobby state and federal politicians to enact legislation that allows them to raise rates on a regular basis, while systematically cutting benefits. Our government is of the people not the insurance corporations and their bottom line!!
Bristol is a post industrial working class town and this issue effects many of our citizens. Our hope is that eyes have been opened to this issue and people who ordinarily would not pay attention to it, because they think it does not directly effect them, will realize this and call their representatives both state and federal in support of increased funding of SCHIP.
My own personal opinion is this: If we can fund a war to kill people why can't we fund a program to help people? It's a bitter pill to shallow but, citizens of this country, no matter what economic level or political affiliation need to start standing up for what's truly important; and that is the well being of all Americans.... that is my definition of patriotism.
I know I am a bit long winded here but I for one am sick to death of the politcs in this country that perscribes to the lowest common denominator. The only elected local official that came to this event was Craig Minor, city council member. It is also important to note that Mike Petosa, Labor council President and several DTC members were present.
Here's what organizers sent out ahead of time to try to get people to come:
Please join us, we need your help!
When: Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Where: Bristol, CT City Hall (in front)
Why: The fate of our children!
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Please Bring: Candles, Friends, Families, and Children, We will try to provide posters, banners, etc.
When our kids get sick, having health insurance can mean the difference between life and death. Next week, Congress will decide which fate awaits poor children across America, when they consider whether to override President Bush's veto of kids' health care.1
To win, we only need 15 more Republicans to switch sides—and the best way to make that happen is with nationwide outcry. So, on Tuesday night, we'll gather at candlelight vigils for the millions of U.S. children who won't get health care if the Republicans block the bill.
Republicans think this is a political game—they've even gone so far as to slander 12-year old who speak out for health care. It's time to solemnly remind Congress what's at stake for the millions of kids who can't see a doctor when they're sick. These kids are one vote away from getting health care.
This is the defining domestic policy fight of the year, and the White House is pressuring Republicans in Congress to stay in line.
To override Bush's veto, we need to raise the pressure one more notch in the final hours before next Thursday's vote. The vigils are being promoted by a giant coalition of children's advocates, unions, and progressive organizations. Our coalition is also generating tons of phone calls, letters, and petitions, backed up by hard-hitting ads. But these vigils are the best way to remind the public what's really at stake—kids' lives.
Lots of people from your neighborhood are ready to stand up for our children's health care. We'll invite them. All they need is someone to help pull the vigil together.
Thank you, Joella Bouchard Mudry
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Copyright 2007. All rights reserved.
Contact Steve Collins at scollins@bristolpress.com
