We’re talking about the death of Robert C. Byrd.
And this is important, why?
Robert C. Byrd was, what I would consider, one of the interesting individuals to represent the United States both as a congressman (beginning his career in 1953) and senator, elected in 1959 from the state of West Virginia. Near the end of his political career, he spoke forcefully against the gathering clouds of war in Iraq, contrary to the position he had taken during the war in Vietnam.
He commented (after failing to sway other senators to adopt a similar position opposing the Bush administration’s “preemptive war”) “Today I weep for my country.” He further noted, “I have watched the events of recent months with a heavy, heavy heart. No more is the image of America one of strong yet benevolent peacekeeper. The image of America has changed.” He made these remarks on the eve of the invasion of Iraq, and ironically I was in Australia, witnessing massive anti-war demonstrations against the government of Prime Minister, John Howard, similar to the Vietnam era anti-war demonstrations. I too, wept, knowing what would happen once war became the mantra of the state...
Whether or not one agreed with Byrd, he was capable of acknowledging past mistakes, and equally, was willing to change positions. It must be noted that early on, Robert C. Byrd was a member of the KKK. However, he later sought to distance himself from the virulent anti-black organization, embracing parity and equal opportunity for all Americans.
As an elder statesman, Byrd remained in Washington during eleven administrations; Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush (1), Clinton, Bush (2) and finally, Obama. Perhaps it was the longevity that shaped, and reshaped his views.
May this country take its cue from one man’s life and reevaluate its direction.
No comments:
Post a Comment