I have been using Facebook as a megaphone to voice my political opinions for a while now. Actually, it was one of the first things I used it for back when I got one in 2006. I had a run of re-broadcasting “Bush-isms” or quotes by former President George W. Bush from press conferences I found particularly hilarious. “Rarely is the question asked, is our children learning.” I mean come on, you can’t write this kind of stuff! I evolved in sophistication to make a post during the 2008 election in favor of Barack Obama. Being older than most of my friends, I was going to be allowed to vote in the election and I was getting quite involved. Now, my second presidential election and I still use Facebook repeatedly as a means of challenging my friends opinions, voicing my own, and ok maybe posting some more Bush-isms.
This was my most recent post the day after the first Presidential Debate:
“I beg of you. Evaluate the candidates based on their policy. Remember, this country’s laws and practices DO NOT allow for a President’s nor Congress’s changes to happen drastically. Progress WILL NEVER happen instantaneously. Stand by which ever candidate you believe has/or will set the path to a better America. I whole-heatedly believe that while his policy heretofore have not been perfect, having worked to overcome many partisan obstacles, Obama has set in place change that deserves another 4 years to settle. Go read the Affordable Heath Care Act, contend with it. See how it really influences you. Don’t let statements in last night’s debate be your basis on which you vote. GET THE FACTS CORRECT for BOTH SIDES.
And I swear to what ever higher entity you fear most, If you respond to this with a bashing on my endorsement I WILL DESTROY YOU. I will take everything you say, put it under a microscope and not only prove you know nothing about this country but that you shouldn’t be allowed to vote until you do. I’m not looking to debate you, only ask that you take this whole thing seriously.”
Shortly thereafter, I saw a post from one of those friends you can’t even remember why you’re connected with on Facebook. They stated:
“Here’s the thing: I don’t mind your political Facebook updates. I really don’t. I even like some of them. but when you start yelling about how socially irresponsible it is for people to be apathetic about politics i want to punch you right in your face with a hammer.”
Now I’m not sure that he/she had seen my post and was commenting on it, but it made me wonder nonetheless if what I was doing and where I was going was it ok? I mean I know some might find it annoying, but we all put up with the ridiculous posts from distant friends quoting lyrics from an ambiguous song that “totally reflects how I feel right now lol” or the flood of borderline incriminating photos posted by sorority girls partying the previous night with Ken doll look-a-likes who love to exercise any chance they get to take their shirt off.
So, why is it that something as critical as this land-mark election shouldn’t be a topic of discussion on Facebook. Twitter feeds were shown along side the debate. How incredible was that? To see real-time reactions. Why not on Facebook?
Maybe Facebook is meant to be a dumbed down place of interaction. Maybe I should only post Bjork lyrics and complain about my lack of opportunity to take my shirt off with sorority girls. Or maybe, people should get fired up. I want to see what you think. I want to know why you resonate with a candidate. I don’t care if you’re some distant friend. You’re still someone, somewhere affected by the political climate in a completely different way than myself. I want to know what you think about the Affordable Heath Care Act. I would love to learn something so that I can challenge my views and strengthen my opinions. Wouldn’t you?
And in response to that post made. It isn’t irresponsible to be apathetic about politics. It’s down right stupid. Whether you like it or not, what happens in November will affect you, your family, and your friends. So why wouldn’t you care. Why wouldn’t you talk about it.
Peace Out Girl Scout
Gian Visciano
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