AMERICA - Do We Stand Up For Freedom?

"The New Isolationism - Right and Left Unite" by Cliff Wilson, Cliff's Notes 6/22/2011

Excerpt

Today’s new isolationism is an amalgamation of two distinct philosophical viewpoints. The radical right wing Republicans are now opposed to the Afghan war and the Libyan action for two reasons 1)Obama is now Commander in Chief and 2)they see no reason why America should help other people gain freedom or retain freedom. Since they see no role for government in helping people here maintain their rights or their livelihood why should we expect them to care about other people in far away nations. The liberals, who have found their voice in opposition to Libya (they have been reticent about Afghanistan because the commander in chief is now their leader), come from a tradition of non-military intervention. They support freedom for Libya, they oppose genocide in Darfur and Al Qaeda control in Yemen but “no boots on the ground” has become their non-interventionist mantra.

So now the right wing Republicans have returned to their isolationist roots and the liberals to their anti-militarist underpinnings to join in opposing the Libyan action; just as the Republicans opposed Clinton’s use of air power with NATO to stop the genocide in Kosovo.

History clearly shows that economic sanctions, moral suasion, or diplomatic pressure rarely impacts on a well armed dictatorial regime. And, while air and naval power without ground forces has not proven an effective quick way to take out a dictator there is some evidence that it may work. It is certainly worth trying as an alternative to losing thousands of lives sending in troops.

The larger question before Americans is this: are we to give up a role as the world symbol of democracy and freedom? Does the Statue of Liberty stand for the 20th century only? Are we going to become Fortress America or an island unto ourselves? There was a time in our country when our leaders and our people believed that freedom denied anyone anywhere denied freedom to everyone everywhere. There was a time in our country when committed to a better life for all Americans we were willing to likewise do what we could to help all peoples.

So, "ARE we to give up a role as the world symbol of democracy and freedom?" My answer, no. We have a moral duty to stand up for freedom, everywhere, IF we are the America I love.