Category Archives: Freedom

Omni Shoreham Hotel Washington, D.C.

THE VICE PRESIDENT: Thank you for that wonderful warm welcome. Thank you to my friend Ralph. All the distinguished guests who are here, members of Congress, our honorees, it is great to be back at the Faith and Freedom Coalition, the greatest pro-family, pro-freedom grassroots organization in the United States of America. (Applause.)

And I am very honored to have the opportunity to help wrap up what I hear has been a great, great week in Washington, D.C. and be able to speak at this 2017 Road to Majority Policy Conference. You know, normally its my job to bring greetings from my boss, but I know you already heard from him on Thursday. (Applause.) And let me tell you, what you saw two days ago is what I see every single day: a leader with broad shoulders and a big heart, a believer, and an unapologetic champion of the God-given liberties enshrined in the Constitution of the United States, the 45th President of the United States of America, President Donald Trump. (Applause.) Thanks to the support of the Faith and Freedom Coalition, last November President Trump won a historic victory. More counties than any President since Ronald Reagan -- 30 of 50 states, states no Republican had carried in a generation. President Donald Trump turned the blue wall red, and we thank you for the support that made that possible. (Applause.) As the Good Book says: If you owe debts, pay debts. If honor, then honor. If respect, then respect. And Im really here just to pay a debt of gratitude to all of you who helped elect a President who is fighting every day to restore freedom in the country and to make this country great and strong once again. The President said it on Thursday, but its worth repeating -- the Faith and Freedom Coalition knocked on 1.2 million doors, made 10 million phone calls, sent out 22 million pieces of mail, distributed 30 million voter guides, and most importantly you elected one President who will never stop fighting for the values and ideals that make this nation great. (Applause.) And as we look out across this room, we see more friends than we can count; people that Ive known for years; people Ive stood together with in my days in the Congress, my days as a governor. Weve fought the good fight in this movement together. And so before I go on let me just take a moment to say how humbling it is for me to stand before my friends of so many years as the 48th Vice President of the United States of America. Thank you, thank you for giving my little family the opportunity to serve. (Applause.) And speaking of my family, on Thursday night, we celebrated the 32nd anniversary of my marriage to the most wonderful woman in the world. (Applause.) Faith and grace and immense patience. Would you all welcome my wonderful wife, Karen Pence, the Second Lady of the United States of America? (Applause.) It really is remarkable to think about everything the Faith and Freedom Coalition has achieved since your founding in 2009. In just eight years youve built chapters in all 50 states, brought together more than 1.7 million members and grassroots activists. And theres a lot of reason for your success. Because while this group may be young, the values you stand for are timeless. But let me express a special thanks to a man who made tonight possible, a leader Ive known for many years who literally has devoted his life to defending his extraordinary talents and his entire life to defending faith and freedom in America, ladies and gentlemen, would you just give a rousing round of appreciative applause to Ralph Reed. (Applause.) This whole room is filled with patrons and patriots, all people -- each of one of you that has made an extraordinary difference in the life of this country, and I know youll continue. But its a particular joy for me tonight to be a part of a celebration of someone who deserves that description more than maybe anyone else Ive ever met in this movement, the recipient of the Winston Churchill Lifetime Achievement Award, my mentor and my friend, Dr. James Dobson. (Applause.) I have long held the view that I dont think less of people who think more highly of me than I think of myself. (Laughter.) And throughout my public career, as hes been in the lives of so many men and women in public life, and in ministry, and in business, Dr. James Dobson has been a source of counsel and encouragement to me and my family all along the way. Dr. Dobson, the truth is this award doesnt actually do you justice. Youve done more for faith and freedom in your lifetime than, as Ralph just said, any one person could do in 10 lifetimes. Although I do think that its probably mostly due to the fact that you married way up. (Laughter.) Would you all give Shirley Dobson another big round of applause? She is an amazing woman, and amazing lady. (Applause.) From the heart I have to tell you, Dr. Dobson, your faith, your matchless voice on the airwaves, the enormous body of written work that you've created in a lifetime has inspired millions. And not only is your country grateful, but I say with confidence: Great is your reward. Youve made an eternal difference in the lives of millions. (Applause.) Ladies and gentlemen, one more time for Dr. James Dobson. Would you mind? This truly is a gathering of consequence, of conviction, and courage. Let me echo what the President said to you just two days ago. He acknowledged that all of you fought hard -- and you fought hard for him and now rest assured, I see it every day, he is fighting hard for all of you. (Applause.) Even before he took his oath of office, President Trump has been keeping his promise to the men and women gathered here and all those you represent across this country. For starters, our President I believe has assembled one of the strongest conservative Cabinets in the history of the United States of America. (Applause.) How about U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley? (Applause.) How about Secretary of Defense Jim Mad Dog Mattis? (Applause.) And how about the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, Dr. Ben Carson? (Applause.) That's the A-Team. And since day one, this President has taken decisive action to make this country great again. President Trump told you on Thursday and I can tell you its true that he will in his words battle for every American who has lost a job, for every family who has lost a loved one, for every American of faith who has lost their rights and lost their freedom. That's exactly what hes done. Our President has been busy since the first day of this administration, rolling back big government, slashing through red tape. In fact, this President has signed more bills into law rolling back federal regulations and red tape than any President in American history. (Applause.) Hes unleashing American energy and unburdening American businesses. Hes putting America back to work, and hes fighting every day to put America First, which was on full display just last week, when President Donald Trump pulled the United States of America out of the Paris climate accord. (Applause.) Its amazing to think that international deal the last administration entered into would have cost 6.5 million jobs in this country in the next 25 years, imposed incredible burdens on the American people while at the same time allowing countries like China and India to get off virtually scot-free. In his decision, the President put American workers first. He put Americas future first. And I promise you that President Donald Trump will always put America First! (Applause.) This President also knows that security is the foundation of our prosperity. That's why President Trump has been standing without apology for the men and women of law enforcement and those who protect our borders. (Applause.) Hes rebuilding our military and restoring Americas place in the world. Hes been standing with our allies and standing up to our enemies. And if the world knows nothing else, the world will know this, under President Donald Trump, America stands with Israel. (Applause.) And this President has been keeping faith with the Constitution of the United States and the God-given liberties enshrined there. Just last month, I had the great privilege to stand beside President Trump as he signed an executive order to help strengthen and restore that most fundamental right from the First Amendment of the Constitution, the freedom of religion. (Applause.) Speaking from the Rose Garden, President Trump declared in his words that the federal government will never, ever penalize any person for their protected religious beliefs. (Applause.) And he directed our Department of Justice to ensure the freedom of religion of every American is protected. And our President began to ensure that the pulpits of America would be free, as well, to start the process to roll back the Johnson Amendment because free speech shouldnt stop at the doors of our churches, synagogues, and places of worship. (Applause.) Just rest assured, President Trump is going to continue to fight to ensure that every American has the freedom to follow the dictates of their conscience, and to add their voices and their values to the beautiful tapestry of our American life. And this President has also stood strongly on the world stage with those who are persecuted for faith around the globe. Under President Donald Trump, America has made it clear: This nation condemns persecution of any faith in any place at any time, and we will confront it with all of our abilities in the world. (Applause.) Protecting and promoting religious freedom is a foreign policy priority of this administration. And President Trump will fight every day for this fundamental right, at home and abroad. You know, its the greatest privilege of my life to serve as Vice President, as well, to a President who is so committed to protecting our most cherished freedoms. But honestly, I couldnt be more proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with a President who stands without apology for the sanctity of human life. (Applause.) And its not just been words, its been deeds. In one of the very first acts in office, President Trump reinstated the Mexico City Policy banning public funding of abortion providers abroad, and last month our President expanded that policy to cover nearly $9 billion in American foreign aid. (Applause.) And it was my great honor with my wife at my side to have the President personally send me to be the first Vice President ever to speak at the annual March for Life. (Applause.) He signed also into law legislation that will empower states to withhold federal funding from abortion providers, and Im humbled to say that at the Presidents direction, I had the opportunity to cast the tie-breaking vote in the United States Senate. (Applause.) And when President Donald Trump signs the bill to repeal and replace Obamacare, we will defund Planned Parenthood once and for all. (Applause.) And when it comes to those God-given liberties, theres one more thing this President has done. As a candidate for President, this President made a commitment to appoint strong conservatives to our federal courts and to the highest court in the land. He made a pledge, particularly when it came to Supreme Court, that he would nominate a jurist in the mold of the late and great Justice Antonin Scalia. And he did just that when he nominated and we confirmed Justice Neil Gorsuch to the Supreme Court on the United States of America. (Applause.) So weve been busy, folks. But as the President likes to say, thats just what we call a good start. (Laughter.) Truth is, we got a lot of work to do, make no mistake about it. Before this summer, job one is were going to work with this Congress -- the men and women in Republican majorities -- and we will repeal and replace Obamacare. (Applause.) I bet I dont have to tell the Faith and Freedom Coalition members and supporters why this failed law has got to go. Just last month, our administration released a new study proving that Obamacare has made health insurance unaffordable for millions of Americans. In just four years -- get this -- Obamacare as more than doubled the average health insurance premiums on the individual markets. In some states, theyre up nearly 200 percent. President Obama promised that Americans would save up to $2,500 on their premiums, but the average premium cost today is nearly $3,000 a year more for Americans than it was in 2013. And its only going to get worse because premiums are spiking by double digits next year and the choices are plummeting. Obamacare is in a death spiral and more and more insurance companies are bailing on this failed law every single day. States across America lost 83 insurers in 2017 alone. In fact, at this very moment, a third of American counties and five whole states only have one choice of insurance company under Obamacare, meaning they essentially have no choice. And come next year, tens of thousands of Americans or more wont have any insurance coverage at all. Just this week, more than 13,000 people in Ohio learned that theyll have no Obamacare coverage next year. In Missouri, 25 counties may be without Obamacare plans. And in Iowa, where I was just about a week ago, it looks like, very soon, 94 of the 99 counties could have no Obamacare to choose from, leaving tens of thousands of working families, small businesses, and family farmers without access to healthcare coverage they need. And folks, remember, its not just the statistics. Were talking about real people in the midst of a real healthcare crisis. Good people, like Julie Champine, who I met with today in Wisconsin. I had the privilege to chat with her on my visit to Milwaukee. Julies been buying health insurance for her family on the individual market since 2004. Shes really a great lady to talk to -- great family, has worked hard in business, she and her husband together. But Julie confided in me, she has some health issues. And health insurance is vitally important to her. Now Julie said she wanted to believe that when President Obama promised her that she could keep her plan, she could keep her doctor that it was true. But it just wasnt. Julie lost her familys health plan. She told me she lost her doctor. And ever since Julies been forced to buy health insurance on the Obamacare exchange, and the simple truth is, as she told me today with emotion in her voice, she just -- she cant afford it. In 2016 alone, Julies Obamacare plan cost more than $9,000 in premiums with a deductible of $13,000. Late last year, she found out her premiums were going to go up by another $2,600 this year. Folks, Julies Obamacare plan cost more than her mortgage and she cant even afford to use it. In fact, because of Obamacare, Julie told me that she actually chose, last Christmas, to stop paying for health insurance for three months just so she could afford Christmas presents for her kids and grandkids. Folks, thats just plain wrong. No American should ever have to choose between paying for their health insurance and providing for their families. Its heartbreaking. (Applause.) She basically said, under Obamacare, we have no hope. But I looked her in the eye, put my hand on her shoulder, and I said, Julie, help is on the way. (Applause.) You know, the truth is, Julie is the face of Obamacares failures but she is the face of tens of millions of Americans who are living proof that Obamacare is collapsing and taking the American people down with it. You know, youd have to be blinded by partisanship to believe otherwise. And unfortunately, theres a lot of people who are blinded by partisanship. And you can find all of them in the Democrat minority in the House and Senate here in Washington, D.C. (Applause.) I mean, look, theyre the ones who gave us Obamacare, and now they wont lift a finger to help us rescue the American people from the mess they made. Thats why we need this road to majority -- to keep the pressure on the Congress and help President Trump and Congress finish what we started. And I promise you, President Trump will not rest, will not relent until we rescue the American people from the disaster of Obamacare and give our country the world-class healthcare the American people deserve. (Applause.) Thats a promise. And after we repeal and replace Obamacare, were going to keep right on going. Were going to roll our sleeves up working with this Congress. Before the end of this year, were going to pass the biggest tax cut since the days of Ronald Reagan. (Applause.) Were going to cut taxes across the board for working families, small businesses, and family farms. This President is going to make the American tax code simpler, flatter, and fairer for everyone. You know, theres an old joke about the tax code. They say its 10 times the size of the Bible with none of the good news. (Laughter and applause.) Well, heres some real good news: Were going to put more money in taxpayers pockets and give American families and American business the relief they need to grow. (Applause.) And were not going to stop there. Under the Presidents leadership, were going to continue to rein in wasteful government spending, restore fiscal responsibility to Washington, D.C., and with Betsy DeVos as Secretary of Education, were going to expand educational choices so every child in America has access to a world-class education regardless of their income, regardless of their area code. (Applause.) Most important of all, this President will continue to stand up for and stand with the brave men and women who protect our freedom and our way of life every day. (Applause.) Now, Karen and I are the proud parents of a lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. (Applause.) And as a parents of a member of our armed forces, I tell you what, I couldnt be more proud to serve with a President who is so committed to the men and women of the Armed Forces of the United States of America. President Trump is the best friend the Armed Forces of the United States will ever have. (Applause.) You know, today, we received a heartbreaking reminder of the risks that our service men and women face in the defense of freedom. As I traveled to Wisconsin this afternoon, I was informed that three American soldiers were killed and one wounded in a terrible attack in Afghanistan. The Bible tells us that no greater love has a man than this, than he should lay down his life for his friends. Let me say from the heart, when heroes fall, Americans grieve. And tonight, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of these American heroes. We honor their service, their sacrifice, and we always will. (Applause.) We honor them by remembering, but we also honor them by ensuring that those that they left behind in uniform have the resources and training to accomplish their mission. And I want to promise you, President Donald Trump will not rest and will not relent until we rebuild our military, restore the arsenal of democracy, and once again give our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guard the resources and the training they need to accomplish their mission and come home safe. (Applause.) The supplemental budget that Congress just put on the Presidents desk had the largest increase in military spending in the last 10 years. And the budget that the President submitted to the Congress for next year has the largest increase in defense spending since the administration of President Ronald Reagan. Were going to rebuild our military. (Applause.) And with that strong support, I would report to you our armed forces are in the fight. Theyre taking the fight to terrorists on our terms, on their soil. And ISIS is on the run. And under this Commander-in-Chief, we will hunt down and destroy ISIS at its source so that it can no longer threaten our people, our allies, or our very way of life. As the President said, this bloodshed must end -- this bloodshed will end. (Applause.) Men and women of the Faith and Freedom Coalition, President Donald Trump is a man of his word. And hes a man of action. And I promise you, whatever the national media is spending its time talking about on any given day -- (laughter) -- President Donald Trump will never stop fighting to make America safe again, to make America prosperous again. He will stay in the fight, and I know you will too. You know, all of you have helped our President get this far, and I really just came tonight to say thanks, and to be here when you honored my friend. I want to thank you for everything youve done. But make no mistake about it, the harder work -- maybe the most important work -- is in front of us, not behind us. (Applause.) From this day forward, President Trump needs every ounce of your energy, your enthusiasm, your conviction, your time, your talent, and your treasure. But we also need, maybe, one other thing in these divided times. In these times of widening challenges at home and abroad, seemingly unknowable threats, and also a time of uncharacteristic division in America, I know youre the right people for me to encourage to do one more thing. And that is pray for America. (Applause.) And Im not -- you know, on this one, Im not so much talking about praying for a cause or praying for an issue. Im always very moved by what President Abraham Lincoln said in his time when he was asked whether he believed that God was on the side of the Union Army. President Lincoln responded memorably. He said, rather than considering whether God is on our side, I think its better for us to consider whether we are on Gods side. So why dont we just pray for America, for all the people of America, and for the future of this great land. (Applause.) And when you pray, pray with confidence. Because I truly do believe that those ancient words, spoke millennia ago and enshrined in the hearts of every American. Words that have seen the people of this country through trials much greater than those that we face today. That if His people, who are called by His name, will humble themselves and pray, Hell do like Hes always done in the long and storied history of this land. Hell hear from heaven, and Hell heal this land. This one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. (Applause.) Thank you. God bless you and God bless the United States of America. END

Continued here:

Remarks by the Vice President to the Faith and Freedom Coalition - The White House (blog)

The NDA government believes in freedom of press as it wants a vibrant media for betterment of democracy, union information and broadcasting minister M Venkaiah Naidu said on Monday.

We will never compromise on press freedom. The government will never interfere except when the issue relates to national security, unity and integrity of the country and the established social order comes under threat, he said.

The Modi government has come under fire over the recent CBI raids on the homes and head offices of Delhi-based NDTV. Many journalists have termed the incident as muzzling the press freedom.

You can see how much criticism the government faces from the media. Even the prime minister is criticised, but the government never meddles with it, Naidu said.

He said a Delhi-based national daily never hesitates to write worst on Narendra Modi.

But we have not reacted, he said, adding giving a political colour to the NDTV case is unfortunate.

Rejecting allegations of attack on freedom of press in the NDTV case, the BJP leader said, The ongoing investigation against NDTV is in no way an attack on press freedom. It will be better if they (NDTV) cooperate with the ongoing probe.

The Union minister was here to attend a Sabka Saath Sabka Bikas programme.

Is it wrong if there is a probe on an allegation against management or owner of a media company? Shouldnt an allegation be probed? he asked.

He said the allegations against the NDTV were made way back in 2011-12 when Narendra Modi was in Gujarat.

The allegation was made when Manmohanji was the Prime Minister, Chidambaram a minister and Rahul Gandhi was managing the government, he said.

Meanwhile, a group of journalists here staged a demonstration during Naidus visit.

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No attack on freedom of press, says Venkaiah Naidu - Hindustan Times

I am an immigrant to the United States born in South Korea. My parents fled the North to escape communism. I understand the important relationship that exists between the United States and Korea. It is a history that is forged in blood and sacrifice.

During the Korean War, about 140,000 South Koreans and more than 35,000 Americans gave their lives to stop the spread of communism and bring freedom to all Koreans.

After the war, the United States continued to aid Korea with financial and military assistance that helped with Koreas post-war recovery. The U.S. continues to support Korea to this day. Nearly 30,000 Americans are stationed in South Korea, risking their lives every day to defend freedom on the peninsula.

North Koreas unstable communist dictator, Kim Jong-un, continues to test ballistic missiles, increasing the threat to the Republic of Korea and freedom in the Pacific.

Of course the previous American presidential administrations laissez-faire attitude toward North Koreas belligerence are in part to blame for making us more vulnerable to its increasing threats.

The constant threat of North Korea, not only to the U.S. national security but to our allies in the Pacific, is becoming more concerning. North Korea poses a physical threat to our allies, Japan and the Republic of Korea.

Dealing with an unhinged oppressive leader is not something unfamiliar to the United States. However, the previous administrations diminishing of the number of troops and military funding, increasingly aggressive actions and changes in leadership there are cause to be anxious. The scandal and impeachment of President Park Geun-hye and recent election of President Moon Jae-in in the South have created an even greater concern with the instability of the region. The change in leadership in the South and the reckless aggression in the North is a dangerous combination for our regional allies.

Therefore, it is now more important than ever to ensure our alliances in the area continue to be strong. We cant afford to allow either Japan or the Republic of Korea to be threatened by such unpredictable power in the region.

The United States is resolved to remain loyal to its longtime allies. It is even more important for Koreans to understand what is on the table and to trust the United States. We understand the importance and the great mutual advantages of our alliance.

Ranked as the 11th largest economy in the world, the Republic of Korea has continued to grow as a global power. Once a recipient of U.S. aid, in 2010 the Republic of Korea became a member of the Development Assistance Committee and officially moved from an aid recipient to a donor; managing to become an official democracy and global power in only a few short decades.

Now is not the time to create greater turmoil with South Korea, which is still unstable from its latest election. However, it is important the new leaders understand the people of the United States will not be patient and complacent when it comes to matters of security. If forced, the United States could be put in the position to take preemptive action against the North.

Both Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Vice President Mike Pence have shared after their visits to Korea the continual use and testing of ballistic missiles by the North is unacceptable, and the new leadership in the South should understand the United States wants to see immediate change concerning the North.

As Pence stated during his trip to the Demilitarized Zone, the alliance between the Republic of Korea and the United States is ironclad. Our loyalties will always remain with our allies in the Pacific. In return, it is their loyalty we will need in order to ensure our mutual protection, safety and continued freedom.

Surfside resident MICHELLE STEEL serves on the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

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Mutual trust will help ensure freedom In the Pacific - Los Angeles Times

Laws on abortion, euthanasia and gay equality are increasingly undermining religious freedom, a family values group has warned.

The Family Council of WA, representing the Salvation Army and a dozen other action groups, has raised major concerns about proposed laws it claims are a direct threat to basic rights.

In its submission to a Federal inquiry into freedom of religion, the council cites proposed changes to abortion laws in Victoria and Tasmania that would force medical practitioners opposed to abortion to make referrals to doctors prepared to carry out the procedure.

It also raises concerns about WA Premier Mark McGowans support of the controversial Safe Schools anti-bullying program, claiming the scheme pressures students into accepting homosexuality as normal.

The concept of freedom of religion and belief, of individuals and organisations, has been the basis of Western civilisation for centuries, the submission says.

These rights are increasingly threatened, even eliminated, by relentless governmental legislative action.

The council argues that governments allowing and encouraging Safe Schools Coalition materials in their schools are blatantly in breach of provisions in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

It also suggests proposed legislation dealing with physician-assisted suicide clearly contravenes freedom of religion and belief because it lacks an option for doctors to abstain from ending the life of a terminally ill patient on the basis that they have a conscientious objection.

In its submission, Public Health Association of Australia says discussion of the right to freedom of religion must acknowledge the tensions that exist between religion and the rights of women, female children and people of diverse gender and sexuality.

The right to freedom of religion may be limited, the association says. It is recommended that discrimination against women, female children and people who are not heteronormative in sexuality or gender be prohibited even where that discrimination is grounded in religious belief.

The inquiry has also heard from gay marriage opponents worried Christian-run businesses may be prosecuted or sued for refusing to provide services for same-sex weddings.

Former High Court judge Michael Kirby last year backed Mr McGowan in taking over funding of the Safe Schools initiative, arguing schools have a legal responsibility to ensure gay students were protected from bullying.

Making the pre-election pledge, Mr McGowan said the policy was designed to right an historical wrong.

Excerpt from:

Gay equality and abortion laws 'a threat' to religious freedom, argues Family Council of WA - The West Australian

More than two centuries ago, Thomas Paine wrote that society is produced by our wants, and government by our wickedness; the former promotes our happiness positively by uniting our affections, the latter negatively by restraining our vices. The 1986 Edsa People Power Revolution raised enormous optimism among millions of Filipinos that democracy and progress are finally on the way. But three decades later, the nation has remained deeply divided.

Our prejudices against each other do not merely come from obvious political demarcation lines; they are rooted in the hegemonic regional divide. For most Filipinos, Manila evokes images of high-rise structures, elite schools, flyovers and horrendous traffic, while Mindanao is often associated with the Moro rebellion, the rural life and, indeed, severe poverty. Until this day, politics in the country continues to be dominated by aristocrats.

Philippine public life is controlled by a very limited number of rich families and politicians, who rule in perpetuity by monopolizing power in government. In this way, politics has only become that existential burden in our never-ending search for happiness as a society. But nation-building is a serious question that should concern every Filipino. Andres Bonifacios Pag-ibig sa Tinubuang Lupa rightly comes to mind.

But all our hopes for this God-forsaken land might just remain utopian because no rich man will unconditionally give his wealth to the poor. And so, we are a country of dreamsdreams of peace and prosperity, dreams of love and happiness. Elitist democratic rule breeds social and economic injustice. The harsh reality is that it results in the marginalization and exclusion of millions among us.

The poor are wanting in what Pierre Bourdieu calls cultural capital. Since the civic sphere has become almost the exclusive domain of the educated class, the majority of Filipinos are unduly denied of a platform or sounding board for them to critically express their legitimate protests against the abuses so often perpetrated by those who are in positions of power.

Yet politics is not just a matter of class interest. A nation is formed by its culture and history. Solidarity is also that enduring quest for a community that dignifies the life of each and truly respects the uniqueness of every person. But the road to institutional reform that leads to justice and equality is a dreary and treacherous journey.

Many among us lead unhappy lives. Millions toil without ever seeing the fruits of their labor, and millions more persist in this cruel world even if they are not really sure of achieving their modest goals in life. Perhaps, such is the sad tapestry on which our destiny as a nation is founded. But while most poor parents may not see the change in the lives of their children, they will continue to carry in their hearts the spirit and passion to pursue all that needs to be done.

It is not the task of political philosophy to preach to the world what men and women ought to be. Human freedom, G.W.F. Hegel teaches us, is a life and death struggle. Philippine politics is defined by conflicts and particular interests. It is only in the recognition of the right of each Filipino to a decent life that this society may be able to throw away the many forms of unwarranted privilege so wrongly enjoyed by the very few.

President Dutertes unsmiling radicalism is not the greatest threat to our freedom. Rather, it is our divisiveness. This is the most difficult obstacle in the effort to overcome the many decades of misery to which thousands upon thousands of Filipinos have been subjected. In the end, we must find that common ground that will bind us together as a nation. The sacrifice of democratic ideals can only mean the irreparable loss of our liberties. Thus, the standard of reasonableness should be the lever on which the future of this nation must depend.

Christopher Ryan Maboloc, PhD, is assistant professor of philosophy at Ateneo de Davao University.

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The greatest threat to our freedom - Inquirer.net

By now all Freedom residents should know public comment for the 2017 Freedom Community Comprehensive Plan ends on June 20, at which point the Planning and Zoning Commission could approve the plan and send it to the Board of County Commissioners for a 60-day review.

Now is the time for all of us to demand better. Freedom Area roads are overcrowded, our schools are the only ones at or near capacity. We ask for better restaurants, better retail choices and more places for family recreation. We get another grocery store. If you are tired of being ignored, read on.

Here are some of the summary of recommendations that county planning department wrote as part of the rationale for updating the comprehensive plan.

Here's what they say: Facilitate residential infill development in character with the existing housing in Freedom's established neighborhoods.

Here's the reality: The planning department proposes to increase the densities on three large parcels Gibson, Beatty and Wolf without justification from the property owners to show how the change benefits the community. None of the increased densities will match the character of the surrounding neighborhoods. The development of these parcels could mean an increase of over 600 homes in an area where schools are at or near capacity and roads are already clogged with congestion. No one property owner's rights are more important than any others.

Here's what they say: Increase the amount of land designated for commercial and light industrial uses in the areas targeted for economic development.

Here's the reality: The intersection of Md. 32 and Md. 26 remains the center of commerce. From the inception of the Comprehensive Mini Plan for the Freedom Area and Environs, the stated and expected areas of development have always been the Md. 26 and Md. 32 corridors, not our quiet residential neighborhoods. We have many vacant storefronts and land in that corridor yet the county planning department wants to put commercial and light industrial uses in the same neighborhoods they promised to protect in item one.

Here's what they say: Ensure that the development review process is predictable, consistent and evenly applied.

Here's the reality: If the county planning department refuses to update our 15-year-old zoning codes before moving forward with this plan we will be open to other costly and time consuming lawsuits that pit the county against itself. The perfect example is the assisted living facility on Oklahoma Road. A similar facility can be built anywhere in the county because the zoning that allows it is still in place. As long as the county continues to change zoning amendments, like Amendment 156, to favor developers we will not have an evenly applied process. Predictability? Well just go back to items one and two.

The State of Maryland has set forth "The 12 State Planning Visions" which the county is required to address when revising our plan. Vision No. 2 is public participation: "citizens are active partners in the planning and implementation of community initiatives and are sensitive to their responsibilities in achieving community goals."

Unfortunately, citizens have only been allowed to react to the plan put forth by the county not be active participants. For over four months, the county planning department met without actively seeking public participation. How long would have this continued if a group of advocates not heard the plan was under revision and contacted the county planning department?

All but one member of the Planning and Zoning Commission lives outside the Freedom area. That so many citizens who live in the northern part of the county are making decisions for us is illogical and disingenuous.

The large parcels being considered for development in this plan are within 5 miles of Bennett Road, so logically the majority of concerned citizens come from this area. Throughout this process, falsehoods have been perpetuated that our resistance to this plan is because "we don't want that in our backyard." I think a more accurate and realistic assessment is that the rest of the county doesn't want it in theirs. We certainly don't expect the county not to grow, we are simply demanding accountability and the predictability and consistency the county is required to give.

It is not only our right but our duty to be informed and involved in our community. Openness, accountability and honesty are the traits of government transparency. Transparency is a government's obligation to share information with citizens. It is the heart of how citizens hold our elected officials, and government employees, accountable.

I am respectfully requesting that the Freedom Plan continue to be reworked until the county can meet the goals that they, the State of Maryland and we the citizens have set for them. If you agree write to the county commissioners at commissioners@cccg.carr.org and the planning and zoning commission at ccplanning@ccg.carr.org and tell them so.

Kimberly Madeja writes from Eldersburg.

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Madeja: Keep working on Freedom Plan to get it right - Carroll County Times

MANILA, Philippines - President Duterte has called on Filipinos to honor the heroism of those who fought for the Philippines freedom by performing their civic duties and protecting the countrys sovereignty.

In his Independence Day message, the President noted that thousands laid down their lives more than a century ago so that Filipinos today may live with the dignity and rights befitting a free nation.

Let us take inspiration from our forebears who valiantly fought and offered their lives so that we may have the liberties that we enjoy today. Let us pay homage to their heroism by preserving our sovereignt and performing our own civic rights and responsibilities, Duterte said.

After all, it is our inherent duty as citizens to ensure that the Philippines fulfills its destiny as a great and prosperous nation, he added.

Duterte also said the countrys journey to freedom was a long and arduous one and involved blood, sweat and the ultimate act of selfless sacrifice.

Despite the insurmountable hardships, the patriotism and undaunted spirit of the Filipino led to our triumph against the shackles of slavery and abuse, the President added.

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The Philippines is celebrating today the 119th anniversary of the proclamation of its independence from Spain.

Photo shows President Duterte comforting a relative of slain S/Sgt. Joven Triston upon arrival of the remains at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City from Cagayan de Oro last night. MIGUEL DE GUZMAN

Duterte will lead the flag-raising and wreath laying ceremonies in Rizal Park in Manila. Independence Day rites will also be held in Pampanga, Laguna, Davao City, Bukidnon, Baguio City, Iloilo, Cavite, Bulacan, Caloocan and San Juan.

But Duterte cancelled the traditional vin dhonneur to attend to matters in Mindanao, which has been placed under martial law because of terrorist threats.

Vice President Leni Robredo will also attend the wreath-laying ceremonies in Rizal Park. In the afternoon, she is expected to attend a democracy summit at the University of the Philippines Diliman.

Robredo asked Filipinos to honor the soldiers and policemen who fought for freedom in Marawi City.

The military aims to raise the Philippine flag in Marawi this Independence Day to show that the government has regained control of the countrys only Islamic City after almost three weeks of intense fighting with extremists, who had claimed allegiance to the terrorist organization Islamic State.

On Independence Day, lets not forget the heroism of our countrymen who continue to fight members of the Maute terror group in Marawi City, Robredo saidyesterdayover her weekly program over dzXL BISErbisyong Leni.

Robredo said she hopes Filipinos today would be inspired by Philippines gaining of independence 119 years ago.

Senators also called on Filipinos to fight for freedom from terror, injustice and poverty amid the proliferation of fake news and online persecution that they said undermine the countrys democracy.

Liberal Party Senators Paolo Benigno Aquino IV and Francis Pangilinan in separate statements said 119 years after the countrys obtained its independence because of the sacrifices of heroes, its democracy continues to be under threat.

Pangilinan cited the ongoing battle in Marawi City as well the imposition of martial law in Mindanao; high-poverty incidence; inaccessibility of education, and proliferation of fake news.

He said he wished that Filipinos be free from fake news and lies.

As one nation, we have gone through many trials. We owe that to those who gave their lives and sacrificed our heroes, ordinary people who responded to the challenge of history, Pangilinan said in Filipino.

Aquino said Filipinos in the past fought for independence from foreign rule, and fought for freedom from a ruthless dictator, referring to the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos.

Now, we fight terrorism, encroachment on our territory and our freedom to dissent, the senator said.

In an era of fake news, rabid online persecution and weak political institutions, we need to fight for our democracy now more than ever, he said.

Detained Sen. Leila de Lima saluted the countrys modern day heroes overseas Filipino workers, teachers, government workers and media, as well as hardworking Filipinos who toil for their families.

De Lima also thanked the soldiers and policemen who continue to battle Maute militants in Marawi City to protect the country from terrorism.

We call on the Duterte regime to stop your crooked system of governance. The country cannot grow by killing our poor countrymen, she said, referring to the drug-related extrajudicial killings that critics said have only victimized low-level pushers.

Sen. Joel Villanueva is set to file a bill penalizing those who maliciously create and intentionally spread fake news in print, broadcast or online following the false claims of Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II implicating some opposition lawmakers in the conflict in Marawi City. Alexis Romero, Helen Flores, Paolo Romero, Cecille Suerte-Felipe

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Duterte: Honor those who fought for Phl's freedom - Philippine Star

Hundreds crowded the Jepson Center on Saturday to celebrate freedom and African culture during the museums 11th annual Juneteenth celebration.

Juneteenth, which is celebrated on June 19, recognizes June 19, 1865 the day Texas, the last state to abolish slavery, emancipated its slaves.

Today is about freedom, said Harry DeLorme, museum senior coordinator. We have a little bit of everything for everyone and some great performances.

The museums event was held Saturday to avoid clashing with other Juneteenth celebrations in the city, DeLorme said.

The family-friendly event, which ran from 1 to 4 p.m., featured cultural exhibits, kids activities and live dance performances from local groups such as the Abeni Cultural Arts Performing Dance Studio.

Dance is universal, said Devan Cokley, an Abeni dancer. People should know that there is more out there besides ballet, jazz and others typical things that you make think of. Through dance, you can celebrate a culture and African dances celebrate the African culture and our roots.

Visitors also got the opportunity to learn about historic traditions such as the basket making and creations of Kente Cloth and participated in a libations ceremony.

Vaughnette Goode-Walker, who coordinates the annual event at the Jepson, said she has seen history change before her eyes in Savannah.

This is all about history, Goode-Walker said.

And Saturday was all about learning from history to create a better future, according to Gregory Grant, a basket maker tabling at Saturdays event.

There is the legend of the Sankofa Bird that flies forward with its head looking backward, he said. You cannot know where you are going without knowing where you came from.

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Savannah celebrates freedom at annual Juneteenth event - Savannah Morning News

As we celebrate our Independence Day today we cant do so without a long look at the sacrifices made by so many to achieve it. Thats the true spirit of independence or kalayaan and you can be sure that the liberties you are enjoying now came a high cost for those youve never even met. Truly I dont know if the youth or even the older generations still understand the cost of freedom. In our history the cost of our independence was paid in blood.

I know that we take our freedom for granted in so many ways today. The same freedom of speech we have we abuse when we raise our voices in anger at one another and make slanderous claims. The same freedom we have to peaceful protest has lost its meaning when every single week there is a protest about one thing or another. Lets face it, in so many ways, weve forgotten what that freedom or independence truly means in our every day lives and squander it.

Now Ill admit that most of the time it is unintentional. We are just so used to having the freedom that we have now that we dont stop to think how different our lives would have been if we were born 119 years ago. How one wrong word could have landed us in jail or how having an opinion could put you in front of the firing squad. It seems so much time has passed that we have forgotten what it must have been like to not have liberties and all the sacrifices so many made so that we could enjoy our freedom today.

History buffs have been reminding us for years, and especially in this last year alone, that those who dont know their history are doomed to repeat it. And that seems to be truer now than ever before. While some kids can give you a rough idea of what we celebrate today most cannot. Most cant even remember Martial Law era of the 1980s let alone the bloody battles over 100 years ago. They were born into the world they live in now and behave as though that is the way it has always been.

I cant blame them. Perhaps we have all gotten complacent when it comes to the freedom we enjoy in our every day life. When things dont go our way we go online and rant about them. We videotape every altercation and put people on trial in the court of public opinion. We elect officials haphazardly and when they fail to live up to our expectations we immediately think of ways to impeach them. We take to the streets without reverence and we think that we are fighting the same way our forefathers did. Honestly, I think most of us cant even comprehend what that must have been like.

Would you march out of our comfortable homes with the same fervor if you knew you would have to pay the ultimate price? Would your rants on social media be as loud if the punishment was the same? I dont know. Maybe for some of us they would be but not for the majority who would soon realize that the cost of the actions would need to be paid in blood and sometimes not even by them but by those they love.

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I think remembering what our freedom truly cost is something extremely important as we celebrate our Independence Day. Its even more poignant now than ever before because as we are celebrating here in Manila and around the world, battalions of our soldiers have put their lives on the line in Marawi fighting once again for freedom against terror and oppression. Despite the many conflicting opinions about Marawi one thing remains sure these men and women are putting their own lives on the line and deserve our respect and admiration.

In fact the cost of sacrifice once again came to light with the viral story of Army Private First Class Dhan Ryan Bayot. His incredible courage in the face of adversity is something that should inspire us all. This young solider was part of the 51st Infantry Battalion team stationed at Barangay Lilod in Marawi serving as additional security for a local government official stationed above their detachment.

Their battalion was attacked with, if reports prove true, the help of the security men of the local executive who were sympathetic with Maute terrorists. The assault was well planned and overwhelming and even though the battalion radioed for reinforcements none could get through because the way was heavily blocked and guarded by hostiles.

After hours of fighting and with most of his comrades dead, Private Bayot knew the inevitable was near. He radioed his commanding officer and instead of pleading for help or expressing anger and anguish at their situation simply requested Bombahin na lang niyo and location ko, Sir! (Just bomb my location, Sir!). He knew the end was near for him and he wanted to take down as many enemies as he could. He faced death without fear and chose instead courage and the hopes of making the enemies pay an equally high price. That is a hero and that is the price they are willing to pay.

On May 28 the soldiers remains and those of his comrades were finally retrieved. And serve as just one of many reminders that there are just as many brave men and women putting their lives on the line for us today, as there were hundreds of years ago. The men and women who serve our country deserve our respect and admiration whatever our political leanings may be. And today, more than any other, we need to give thanks for the freedom that their sacrifices bought and vow not to take it for granted.

Now, more than ever, we must be the watchmen/women of our own history and make sure that every generation remembers it and reveres it. Happy 119th Araw ng Kalayaan, Philippines and may we all endeavor to be better and do better every day.

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The price of freedom - Philippine Star

The Hindu

'Denial of freedom a universal phenomenon' The Hindu Mr. Narayanan said the Emergency was a turning point in the history of independent India and that it was the beginning of the decay in Indian National Congress, which had played a major role in the Indian freedom movement earlier. He said the response ...

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'Denial of freedom a universal phenomenon' - The Hindu