Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Oklahoma, You're Not Doing Fine

The Food Stamp Program, administered by the US Department of Agriculture, is proud to be distributing this year the greatest amount of Free Meals and Food Stamps ever, to 46 million people.

Meanwhile, the National Park Service, administered by the US Department of Interior, asks us "Please Do Not Feed the Animals". The stated reason for the policy is because "the animals will grow dependent on handouts and will not learn to take care of themselves".

This ends today's lesson in irony. #OKGOP

This message appeared yesterday on the Oklahoma Republican parties Facebook page, but was taken down, along with comments soon after.

Later in the day there was an apology of sorts issued via twitter: "Last night there was a post on our OKGOP Facebook page, and it was misinterpreted by many. I offer my apologies for those who were offended-that was not my intention.", posted by Oklahoma Republican Party chair Randy Brogdon.

Brogdon did not mean to offend when he compared food stamp recipients to wild animals, but he's sorry for those who misinterpreted his intention, but not sorry for the actual post.

Easily the most offensive thing I have ever seen on Facebook, without even digging into numbers and stats on Food Stamp recipients (active and retired military, minimum wage employees). The comments were even worse, which I did not think was possible.

What a tragedy if Mr. Brogdon were to loose his job over this and be left without a viable means to provide for his family.

2 comments:

Nellie said...

One seems to be so quick to judge those in need, particularly if one hasn't been in that position. There was a time in my childhood - many, many years ago - when my family had to resort to accepting governmental assistance for a short time. While it wasn't precisely a "lifesaver," it certainly enabled us to travel a very rocky road with the ability to miss some of those pot holes! Still with the will to further education, that college degree was placed in my hands, and I have certainly been moved to assist others in need. For those of us of faith, that is certainly one of our commandments!

Love your writing!

northsidefour said...

Nellie that is so often my frustration, making these wide reaching statements, with regard to so many things, without considering the actual specifics. I'm so happy that there was a net for your family, I know many who have similar stories, thank goodness there is help. I always love to hear from you!

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