Jim Bailey: Enough is Enough.
(http://photos.metrojacksonville.com/History/enough-is-enough-jim-bailey/i-LstJqn4/0/O/jimbaileyenoughbanner.jpg)
We have an African-American mayor and the owner of our NFL team is from Pakistan. Yet, for whatever reasons, Jacksonville seems to go out of its way to carry a brand of intolerance like a badge of honor. Perhaps other cities are faced with similar issues and we just seem to find a way to receive most of the attention. I don't know whether they do or not, but it really doesn't matter. We just seem to be caught up in the game of "gotcha" an awful lot.
Full Article
http://www.metrojacksonville.com/article/2013-feb-jim-bailey-enough-is-enough
Thank you Mr. Bailey for showing your leadership in this community and speaking up. I would love see people like yourself on our city council. :-)
Amen, brother!
Extremely well said.
Of course, the intolerance is a huge embarrassment for the city. It speaks loudly about our ignorance and discourages growth.
However, what bothers me equally about this issue is the fact that the city council is so cowardly that they lack the conviction of their belief. If in fact, they feel that the Dr. is a threat to Jacksonville's security, why not say so? Why hide behind the BS?
I am frightened to think that our city is being led by a bunch of little girls.
And if they are too embarrassed to be honest -- well, that speaks rather loudly too.
I'll be honest - intolerance is not just about nationality, race, religion, creed - it is also about SIZE. I happen to be fat. It seem that fat people are not protected, and even the cool "tolerant" people don't include us as diverse and deserving of tolerance. Instead, it's more cool to treat us like crap and discriminate against us for jobs. I had a job offer rescinded because they brough up my weight and asked how I was going to do my job because I was heavy - how I wished I had a recorder in my purse at that moment. I've had other people come out and remove the forms from my hands as I was completing them so I could get at least a temp job - they told me "we have enough information...we'll call you". And, of course, if you've ever watched those exposes on 20/20 an the like, you see how they treat models who are dressed up in "fat suits". Why is it ok to put down people because of their size? Just like the recent remarks made to Governor Christie, and Melissa McCarthy. Where is your tolerance NOW?
Thanks for this post, Mr. Bailey. I attended last week's City Council meeting, and witnessed a great amount of people standing up for Parvez Ahmed. This attempt to block Dr. Ahmed from the commission and the rejection of the HRO a few months ago are actions that seem very out of touch with a majority of Jacksonville's residents.
I think we all need to be more tolerant of intolerant people. ;-)
Quote from: sandyshoes on February 19, 2013, 09:45:19 AM
I'll be honest - intolerance is not just about nationality, race, religion, creed - it is also about SIZE. I happen to be fat. It seem that fat people are not protected, and even the cool "tolerant" people don't include us as diverse and deserving of tolerance. Instead, it's more cool to treat us like crap and discriminate against us for jobs. I had a job offer rescinded because they brough up my weight and asked how I was going to do my job because I was heavy - how I wished I had a recorder in my purse at that moment. I've had other people come out and remove the forms from my hands as I was completing them so I could get at least a temp job - they told me "we have enough information...we'll call you". And, of course, if you've ever watched those exposes on 20/20 an the like, you see how they treat models who are dressed up in "fat suits". Why is it ok to put down people because of their size? Just like the recent remarks made to Governor Christie, and Melissa McCarthy. Where is your tolerance NOW?
I'm really sorry you've had to experience that, and it's brave of you to discuss it so openly. You're completely right, sizeism is every bit as unacceptable as any other form of discrimination. It's my opinion that it's probably the most prevalent, overt form of discrimination out there right now. Normally civil people who wouldn't dare make discriminatory remarks about blacks or hispanics, for example, have no problem openly mocking the obese. Though my sympathies still do lie with the self-inflicted obese who lack the self discipline to control their intake, I truly feel terrible for those who are predisposed to obesity, whether by genetics or medical circumstance, and just can never find comfort within their own skin. I exercise regularly, but I'm also one of those assholes who never seems to put on weight, regardless of a weakness for Mellow Mushroom and CamiCakes. Yet I see people out jogging daily and having salad for lunch every day that just can't seem to lose a pound. In a perfect world, I'd be the chubby one and they'd have a body they liked.
I think the world would be an infinite better place if people lived by the opening line of the
Great Gatsby:
QuoteIn my younger and more venerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since.
"Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone," he told me, "just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had."
SC, you meant to say little boys and girls on council right? lol Actually I know quite a few little girls that would lead far more effectively than some on the current council. For starters, the little girls I am speaking of are not bigots :)
Quote from: sandyshoes on February 19, 2013, 09:45:19 AM
I'll be honest - intolerance is not just about nationality, race, religion, creed - it is also about SIZE. I happen to be fat. It seem that fat people are not protected, and even the cool "tolerant" people don't include us as diverse and deserving of tolerance.
and Mr. Schellenberg used just this as an example of why the HRO wasn't necessary...his mindset is where will it end....discrimination about height, hair color, big nose, etc.
I wasn't stating an opinion Stephen...just repeating what the CM said
Good news.
"The Jacksonville City Council Rules Committee voted Tuesday to support reappointing Parvez Ahmed to the city's Human Rights Commission..."
Source: http://jacksonville.com/opinion/blog/403455/steve-patterson/2013-02-19/jacksonville-council-panel-confirms-parvez-ahmed?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
^Great news. FTU says the vote was 4-3; what was the breakdown?
I believe it was Boyer, Jones, Cresembini, & Love for, Lumb, Holt & Yarborough against.
The discussion was quite lively, as the vote was unexpected.
Need you even ask? ;)
Crescimbeni, Jones, Love, and Boyer in favor and on the right side of history.
Yarborough, Lumb and Holt against and on the wrong side of history.
Again...it IS the people of Jacksonville that allow this to happen. MJers live in a bubble fantasy that Jacksonville is at least sort of progressive and there's always this question of "Why?" are we so behind? The shenanigans that go on in government there simply do not happen in other major cities that are favorable and progressing. They might happen a little to some stagnant Midwest cities or rarely in one-off occasions in random metros, but Dear Jesus it seems to happen enough to make *National* news all the time in Jacksonville.
It's an epidemic problem. The larger problem is that outside of "unbiased" news reports that say "x person said/did this, others viewed it as a sign of problems plaguing the city", etc and outside of MetroJacksonville, your average retiree at the beach doesn't care (they don't even view themselves as part of the city), your average nurse on the SS doesn't even know of the problem because he/she is working 14 hour shifts, and your average old-timer intown/westside doesn't care because they vote for these stinkin people time and time again...and some of them agree with people like Clay and Lumb!
Tis question must be asked: How Gay/Gay-Friendly IS Riverside if the people there voted for Lumb, who voted against a simple human rights "recognition" bill that is but a baby step in protecting gays in the workforce? I could conjure up other "don't ask" questions, but won't.
Thank you to Jim Bailey for writing this letter...I'm sure it was also an editorial in the paper.
^Simms, I would completely agree that "the people" of Jacksonville need to behave more as a collective when it comes to influencing the direction this city takes and how it votes. Consider this if you will. I don't think Metrojacksonville users all "live in a bubble". If you take a moment to think about it, at all levels in any community whether it be online or in formal meetings or coffee shop conversations, people of like minds and concerns are drawn together, this is just natural. What I would point out is that when we make a statement like "it's the fault of the people" you need to remember you are invoking "people" of all views. So consider that with a "call to the people", it may be a good thing to define who those people are. :)
Jacksonville's roots and who has had influence here for decades tell much of the story of why issues like having a "Muslim" on any board is problematic. Control has been held by White Christian men for nearly all of our political history. Only now has that started to change, on the surface at least.
At the core of the issue is "religious bigotry". Consider that conflicts between Christian and Islamic religious views are age old. Now consider the influence of Christian churches and pastors on the folks currently holding office here from the Mayor to all elected officials as well as upon their followers, i.e. voters. When any group has fear of, or suspects the religious views of another group we unfortunately see one try and repress or destroy the other. In so doing many local Christian's and activists not only believe they are doing "Christs" work but are also saving the community from potential influence of Muslim extremists. These ideas presented on local pulpits by fearful pastors and activists like the fellow named "Randy" who readily fans the fires of Muslim distrust is at the heart of this ongoing conflict. So we end up with this mucky soup of religious bigotry wrapped in the "justification" of public security from Muslim extremists.
We have a sizable FBI office and presence in Jacksonville, along with the Navy and a port authority. If there was any chance that Mr. Ahmed were a "terrorist" as some are suggesting, you can be darn sure he would already be on the radar of officials. There have been no public indictments from authorities. Regardless of individuals that Ahmed may have been photographed with or groups he frequented that may have had members with more extreme views, he himself has done nothing while sitting on the Human Rights commission that has had even a hint of impropriety. It is absurd to imagine that as individuals we are guilty of anything simply through association.
Now lets put the same equation to the issue of Gay rights and protection of those rights in Jacksonville. Again look to local history influenced heavily by pastors and people of the Christian Faith. Many individuals have been taught by their pastors that "homosexuality" is a sin against God, an absurdity of a belief to be sure, but embraced by many people none the less. This is a position not only expressed through white church leadership, but also through black church leadership. In the case of the legislation recently rejected by city council that spoke to protecting gay rights, we again see in your face religious bigotry, in this case wrapped up by some as an issue of landlord rights, church rights etc., to make it a more acceptable to a wider range of persons. Taking this position they hoped would say "we are not bigots or homophobes, we are just looking after our own rights". A simple mind game and charade to be sure but the best some could come up with to hide the truth of bigotry and judgement.
I do not think "the people" in this case failed to get this bill passed. The failure of this legislation falls directly at the feet of a mayor who refused to take a position on the issue in spite of declarations of support for equal treatment of all citizens and a councilman named Johnnie Gaffney, who became a turncoat after being "pressured and promised" by some individuals of color and influence to change his vote. People who were and are protecting the valuable asset of church support in politics and well as political donations from more conservative donors. It was Gaffney's last minute vote change that killed this bill. So who got to Gaffney? That is what "the people" in support should be asking along with why the mayor refused to stand in support of this bill after having the support of many in the Gay community for his election.
As far as believing "the people" who are not fearful and open minded in both cases have "allowed" this to happen is inaccurate in my view. There were hundreds upon hundreds of supporters in both cases who spoke out on this issue, legislators who voted in support of both issues. Ahmed is reappointed and we saw folks like Mr. Woods of the T.U. and Mr. Bailey of The Daily record speak up as well as past mayors, university leaders, community leaders etc.
I think the thing that can be done to put "bigotry" in the case of sexual identity to rest in our city is to go "big"! The group needs to work to get signatures to put this up as a ballot issue voted on by folks citywide and also take the issue to the State level and push legislation there.
The young folks coming of age along with many of voting age now do not hold to bigotry in any form. Time and effort will change this dynamic with consistent attention and involvement.
I agree with previous posters. I know Jim Bailey to be a stand-up person who cares about our community. I have seen his words and deeds. He is an all-around good person IMHO.
Quote from: simms3 on February 23, 2013, 02:14:03 PMTis question must be asked: How Gay/Gay-Friendly IS Riverside if the people there voted for Lumb, who voted against a simple human rights "recognition" bill that is but a baby step in protecting gays in the workforce? I could conjure up other "don't ask" questions, but won't.
Just want to jump in and fix one thing here. Lumb ran at-large and was elected by the whole county. Jim Love, District 14, supported the HRO amendment (at least with regard to gays and lesbians) and has made supportive comments about the future of the bill since.
But your other points are well-taken.
^ Preach! Amen and hallelujah!
Quote from: stephendare on February 24, 2013, 12:56:42 AM
well lets be correct. All of the Council Members voted against the ordinance except for two.
I think even Jimmy would tell you the first bill had some major flaws in it
^ Yep. Politics is the art of the possible. The bill as originally drafted wasn't possible.
The substitute was more possible, but ironically not very artful.
We'll get it right in Round 2.
I returned to J-ville last night, after spending three days at a large gathering of venture capital entities who invest billions (that's dollars, with a "b") in partnership with municipalities around the US and Canada. I attended the event simply as an observer, but the greater purpose was essentially a"speed-dating" event between 36 progressive cities from four time zones, and an undetermined number of investors who were interested in hearing about prospective urban redevelopment projects where they might put those aforementioned billions of private capital.
It was made clear by the investors I spoke to that they have plenty of pent-up demand (money) for investment opportunities and also clear that the public sector need for private capital and management capacity is significant. It is an investors market out there. Some cities that were present made connections that I am sure will result in projects ranging from convention hotels to schools, to jails, to City Hall buildings and residential lofts. Our football conference rival, Indianapolis, presented a plan so sophisticated it bordered on unbelievable. As was the price tag that involved over $100 million in committed private capital investment, dead in the center of their CBD.
I didn't hear anyone say it directly, but the message came through to me loud and clear. Private venture capitalists don't have any time at all to waste on backwater politics. They are looking for demonstrable evidence from local governments that their investments are safe from political intolerance, bigotry, racism and backroom gatekeeping that might adversely affect their return on investment. They recognize that every successful urban redevelopment effort in this country is founded on a tolerance of diversity, GLBTG urban pioneers, the arts culture, and the food and entertainment industries, as well as embracing youthful entrepreneurs who cater to a different crowd.
Small wonder that college towns like Austin and Tempe rank so high in economic indicators in this fiscal climate, and small wonder that private venture capital is flowing to those "progressive" cities while avoiding "like the plague" those cities with cultures of backwardness.
It is sadly ironic that as much rhetoric as we feed ourselves about the good things we want to happen in this town, that we continue to shoot ourselves in the foot on the public national stage.
Soon. Very soon, people who could make a difference in Jacksonville are going to realize that it might be easier to pull up and move to where things are heading in the right direction than to continue to pour money and effort down a proverbial rathole while waiting for attitudes to change.
Quote from: xplanner on February 24, 2013, 11:51:03 PM
Soon. Very soon, people who could make a difference in Jacksonville are going to realize that it might be easier to pull up and move to where things are heading in the right direction than to continue to pour money and effort down a proverbial rathole while waiting for attitudes to change.
Unfortunately, as far as people realizing it's easier to pull up, move or invest elsewhere, we may already be there. We, as a community, will have to decide if we want this to accelerate or if we want to chart a different path.
^In some ways we're definitely already there. Our success will depend on attracting and keeping skilled, educated people, and stuff like this just makes it all the harder to keep the ones we've got and attract new ones from elsewhere. The message the city council is sending with this stuff is just deplorable: they're saying that Jacksonville doesn't value diversity, tolerance, or human rights. Hardly the right message to attract young, educated people. Jacksonville has so much going for it, why does our government feel the need to cut our feet out from under us?
Quote from: xplanner on February 24, 2013, 11:51:03 PM
I returned to J-ville last night, after spending three days at a large gathering of venture capital entities who invest billions (that's dollars, with a "b") in partnership with municipalities around the US and Canada. I attended the event simply as an observer, but the greater purpose was essentially a"speed-dating" event between 36 progressive cities from four time zones, and an undetermined number of investors who were interested in hearing about prospective urban redevelopment projects where they might put those aforementioned billions of private capital.
It was made clear by the investors I spoke to that they have plenty of pent-up demand (money) for investment opportunities and also clear that the public sector need for private capital and management capacity is significant. It is an investors market out there. Some cities that were present made connections that I am sure will result in projects ranging from convention hotels to schools, to jails, to City Hall buildings and residential lofts. Our football conference rival, Indianapolis, presented a plan so sophisticated it bordered on unbelievable. As was the price tag that involved over $100 million in committed private capital investment, dead in the center of their CBD.
I didn't hear anyone say it directly, but the message came through to me loud and clear. Private venture capitalists don't have any time at all to waste on backwater politics. They are looking for demonstrable evidence from local governments that their investments are safe from political intolerance, bigotry, racism and backroom gatekeeping that might adversely affect their return on investment. They recognize that every successful urban redevelopment effort in this country is founded on a tolerance of diversity, GLBTG urban pioneers, the arts culture, and the food and entertainment industries, as well as embracing youthful entrepreneurs who cater to a different crowd.
Small wonder that college towns like Austin and Tempe rank so high in economic indicators in this fiscal climate, and small wonder that private venture capital is flowing to those "progressive" cities while avoiding "like the plague" those cities with cultures of backwardness.
It is sadly ironic that as much rhetoric as we feed ourselves about the good things we want to happen in this town, that we continue to shoot ourselves in the foot on the public national stage.
Soon. Very soon, people who could make a difference in Jacksonville are going to realize that it might be easier to pull up and move to where things are heading in the right direction than to continue to pour money and effort down a proverbial rathole while waiting for attitudes to change.
Truth! Question, Was there no one representing Jacksonville at the gathering?
Quote from: Tacachale on February 25, 2013, 10:13:08 PM
^In some ways we're definitely already there. Our success will depend on attracting and keeping skilled, educated people, and stuff like this just makes it all the harder to keep the ones we've got and attract new ones from elsewhere. The message the city council is sending with this stuff is just deplorable: they're saying that Jacksonville doesn't value diversity, tolerance, or human rights. Hardly the right message to attract young, educated people. Jacksonville has so much going for it, why does our government feel the need to cut our feet out from under us?
To a degree, as a group, I'm not sure our elected leaders fully recognize the world around us is changing and what that means for our community's future economically. It may take a new generation of residents to take the reins and steer Jacksonville in the right direction.
Quote from: thelakelander on February 25, 2013, 11:03:47 PM
Quote from: Tacachale on February 25, 2013, 10:13:08 PM
^In some ways we're definitely already there. Our success will depend on attracting and keeping skilled, educated people, and stuff like this just makes it all the harder to keep the ones we've got and attract new ones from elsewhere. The message the city council is sending with this stuff is just deplorable: they're saying that Jacksonville doesn't value diversity, tolerance, or human rights. Hardly the right message to attract young, educated people. Jacksonville has so much going for it, why does our government feel the need to cut our feet out from under us?
To a degree, as a group, I'm not sure our elected leaders fully recognize the world around us is changing and what that means for our community's future economically. It may take a new generation of residents to take the reins and steer Jacksonville in the right direction.
They don't understand and some just don't care. You are right about the new generation though. Through them we will see a greater shift in attitudes and views. Of course when you are my age, you Ennis and so many other young professionals in your age group are that new generation. The good thing is that you know that and are working for change.
I recently moved into District 14 and still getting my political bearings. How pro-gay equality is Jim Love? I hear from some people that he has a terrible record on GLBT equality issues and from others he's a moderate on the issues but will sell us out.
I want to make a very informed decision in the next election and would like to understand from a variety of people & viewpoints.
Jim Love seems like a horrid person.
Let me get this straight, youu supported Love? A anti business bully who voted against your GL ordinance. While there was an "extremely qualified opponent"?
I knew you where bad at this but WOW. Too funny.
Translation-Please excuse the rambling diatribe, as that is what I do when it has been demonstrated to all what a boob I am. This is what happens when you make every decision devoid of reason and common sense. Even though I have been on the wrong side of literally everything, keep in mind that I am the smartest guy in every room I walk into. Your welcome for being able to be on the same planet as me. Stevie
I am certainly not voting for Jim Love but I am also worrying about who will be running against him...sometimes the Devil you know is better
It's important to demand accountability from people running from office before and after they're elected. Jim Love saw an exploitable constituency, and took advantage of it. He was a mistake, as was Alvin Brown, and now it is time in the up and coming council elections to make a Human Rights Ordinance and important platform issue for all candidates. It is through attrition those of us fighting to improve social and economic liberty for people will eventually get this through. It is also important for activists to reach through traditional power structures, and their complacent leadership, and touch the people they claim they represent. The one thing killing the prospect of the city passing a Human Rights Ordinance are the egos of a few folks in leadership roles.
I'm ready to get involved for equality and making our elected officials accountable.
Me too Bold...I'll go to meetings and ask any candidates running in my district { 14 } if they are for Equal Rights for all of the citizens of Jacksonville, I'm still upset I too was suckered in by Mayor Brown.
Stephen - Everyone is extremely disappointed they were suckered in by Brown, even the lackies who have yet to come clean and admit it!
Quotethe gayest district in the city voted Jim Love into office--narrowly beating an extremely qualified opponent, Jill Dame, only to have him vote against the Human Rights Ordinance. He was later patted on the head with a special introduction to the congregation of the largest baptist church in the city for voting against his constituents.
He also helped engineer zoning changes designed to shut down new businesses in riverside, since a couple of the anti business activists at RAP (still a great organization) couldn't legally bully new business owners without them.
I'd be happy to see Stephen and Kay fight it out. My money is on Kay.
Quote from: mtraininjax on January 16, 2014, 11:34:49 PM
Stephen - Everyone is extremely disappointed they were suckered in by Brown, even the lackies who have yet to come clean and admit it!
Quotethe gayest district in the city voted Jim Love into office--narrowly beating an extremely qualified opponent, Jill Dame, only to have him vote against the Human Rights Ordinance. He was later patted on the head with a special introduction to the congregation of the largest baptist church in the city for voting against his constituents.
He also helped engineer zoning changes designed to shut down new businesses in riverside, since a couple of the anti business activists at RAP (still a great organization) couldn't legally bully new business owners without them.
I'd be happy to see Stephen and Kay fight it out. My money is on Kay.
But at least he's not as useless as Peyton....
For as medicore as Mayor Brown is, he at least would not have taken our city and region backward like that Hogan would have.
Peyton represented his era in Jacksonville, not much excitement and a city beginning to fall behind and be forgotten.
Mayor Delaney, now that was a Republican I can stand with. Delaney represented his era when Jacksonville gained several Fortune 500 companies, Springfield was rising, downtown had hope and placed money & resources into our libraries and roads and built things to help & continue to help Jacksonville elevate to the next level.
Mayor Peyton, unfortunately took a bold Jax on the rise and guided us into stagnation and dudrums. Just as Jax was about to raise to the next tier, Peyton lead us to no longer having the pride and gumption to take that next step.
Hopefully out next mayor will be of the caliber of Mayor John Delaney.
"Gentleman Jim" Baily.
Bold.
QuoteBut at least he's not as useless as Peyton....
Well, let's see, Peyton did stand up to Sleiman and said the city would not bend over for improvements at the Landing, something Brown seems to be ready to do.
Peyton did not bend over and give in to 43 million in video boards either. Peyton was not my favorite either, but he did a lot less bending over than Brown has done, and if you elect Brown again, its only going to get worse.