Human Rights Activist in the Making

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I’ve come to find that certain “policies” and rules imposed upon the public, grotesque and sometimes dehumanizing. Our so-called leaders of this great nation allow those who have power to take from those who have none. We need a serious, modern-day, Robin Hood; someone who will start the change to give back to the poor. In current times, the hero would have to come in the form of a dreaded, politician. Or at the very least, someone who isn’t afraid to stand up to the “big wigs.” The problem is, is that the corruption rots even your own boss’ intentions. Threats of hour and pay cuts, demotion, firing, suing, all prevent justice from being served. In the end, it all comes down to greed. And because our world relies on money, status, and power, we find ourselves wrapped up chasing our own tails and wanting more more more. Example 1: Air Conditioning/Heating What seems like an obvious amenity to most, it is a luxury to some. I find it repugnant that companies (BGE…) charge fees for maintaining a “livable temperature” in homes. “Stay hydrated,” and “stay indoors!” is what the reporters recommend. News channels constantly remind the public that a heat advisory is in effect, and to avoid being outside during the hottest parts of the day as the heat index is at a record high. Also at a record high: our electric bill. Should the homeless be exposed to the heat/cold when the news warns to stay indoors? Shelters are available,sure. It only takes 2-3days to get a bed in one. It’s probably just as difficult, if not more, for families. It isn’t just the homeless who can be without ac/heat. Here’s the link to Baltimore County’s Renter’s Agreement. I read the fine print. It says that the property owner (renter) is responsible for: a working smoke detector (depending on type of property and how many rentees will live there), electrical wires are not visible in the living areas, hot/cold running water, no leaks, in kitchen and each bathroom, toilets must flush, no sleeping in the basement unless it has a thumb turn dead bolt, “the furnace is either operational or because of outside temperatures it is unable to be tested”, and the check list concludes with carbon monoxide detectors and railings. There is no obligation on the renter’s part to provide proof of a working furnace/heater or air conditioner! The rent may be cheap, but there is no way to escape of the heat; heat stroke is a very real threat to many people and families in Baltimore County! Power is a major economic driver, and if all the companies were to disappear, there would be colossal repercussions, both on a financial scale, but also on daily life. So then what? We continue to pay ludicrous charges to comfortably operate in our daily lives. I would suggest installing solar power, but apparently it’s ridiculously expensive (just like the ‘all organic’ phenomenon). ….. My other half’s reaction: “So basically, you want to live in a socialist country?” My answer: No, i just think that basic human rights should take precedence over money saved to fatten personal pockets. Example 2: Health Care The one good thing about modern commercials is that the actual cold medicine actors tend to portray how we all feel when we’re sick. The Niagara Falls nasal drip followed by the champagne cork stuffy nose, the hot and cold chills, the throats on fire; and those are just common colds. When the human body isn’t working correctly, I, for one, would be willing to do anything to make the problem stop. Why should seeing a doctor and getting what is needed to mend the body, cost unreal amounts of money? Everyone should have basic access to proper health care. Beware, of course, of all those seeking to take advantage of any helping hand, and make sure that those “in control” are intelligent, compassionate, selfless, and more importantly, not for sale.