Blog - Elders Protecting Our Constitution

The Trouble with Free Enterprise

Adam Smith’s “invisible hand” worked well when employment was widely scattered and mostly in private hands. Individual pursuit of self-interest generally led to the common good and the “rising tide that lifted all boats.” But no more. Instead of employment being widely scattered and small scale, over 75 percent of American workers now work for corporations. In our current economic environment, free enterprise has gone berserk, making some people super rich and leaving many others impoverished. We have not only individuals pursuing their own advantage but corporate boards and political supporters seeking profit and advantage with little regard for the common good.
Free enterprise served us well and probably shouldn’t be abandoned. Its shortcomings need to be addressed. Much easier said than done.

Framing Matters: Precise messaging is needed

In the uproar over ICE, we need to be absolutely clear about what we are saying. Most of America is on the same page about holding criminals and law enforcement accountable — but you’d never know it from the soundbites we’re hearing.

DEI or no is not the issue

If everyone had access to a good education, to good job opportunities, to housing, healthcare and all the benefits promised by the American Dream, DEI would not be an issue. Let’s not fight over DEI, let’s all work together toward a better future for everyone.

On Gaza – What is the Price?

Starvation of a civilian population is an illegal weapon of war.

American Exceptionalism

What defines American Exceptionalism in today’s world?

A Way Forward

It is time to heal divisions. In the words of Andrew Jackson, “The Union, it must be preserved.”

Concerns about Recent Supreme Court Rulings – an open letter to Chief Justice John Roberts

An open letter to the Honorable Chief Justice John Roberts expressing one senior citizen’s hopes and requests for more constitutionally responsible Supreme Court Action.

Honoring Black American World War II Soldiers and the Fight Against Historical Erasure

The Trump administration removed plaques highlighting Black soldiers contributions at an American World War II cemetery in the Netherlands. Dutch citizens call for their restoration.

What Trump voters are receiving from his administration

Rising prices, weakened public institutions, reduced healthcare support, and fading international alliances are reshaping daily life. Many who backed the administration now face the consequences of policies eroding stability, safety, and essential services.

The Trump System for dominating your privileges

A deeper look at how dominance works in daily life, how citizens become voluntary participants, and how distraction, fear, and eroding norms sustain a powerful system. The question becomes how individuals resist and rebuild independence.

Getting to where we need to be

Extraordinary times demand extraordinary leadership. This piece examines the kind of messenger and message needed to inspire voters, restore democratic values, and engage young Americans in a moment of historic urgency.

Healing Our Nation’s Troubles

Growing executive power, weakened institutions, and stagnant economic opportunity demand more than slogans. This article argues for rebuilding services, restoring healthcare protections, and investing in national job programs rooted in real public need.

Saving Democracy is not a Winning Message

While Trump’s threats to democracy are real, voters struggling with daily survival don’t feel the urgency. Democrats must offer more than warnings and present a clear, positive vision that improves everyday life and motivates turnout.

Generalizations

Observations from military history reveal a timeless truth about leadership: the wrong kind of energy can do great damage. A brief reflection asks readers to consider how this applies to today’s political climate.

Perseverence

The smiling lady in the Ancestry ad proudly proclaims, “my ancestors were resilient.” “Resilience” as defined by Meririam-Webster: “tending to recover from or adjust easily to misfortune or change.” Resilience is not a term I’d use to describe the immigrants I’ve interpretted and translated for. “Desperate” would be more applicable

Elders Speak Out