I’ve shamelessly swiped that terrific header from Jonah @ NRO.
The linked-to piece – from ExurbanLeague - is here. An excerpt (satire alert):
Obviously, this incident has raised many concerns among Americans. There have been calls for justice and even violence against the misguided perpetrators. But such an emotional reaction has led to the disparagement of entire groups with which we are unfamiliar. We have seen this throughout history.
For too long, America has been too dismissive of the proud culture and invaluable contributions of the Pirate Community. Whether it is their pioneering work with prosthetics, husbandry of tropical birds or fanciful fashion sense, America owes a deep debt to Pirates.
The past eight years have shown a failure to appreciate the historic role of these noble seafarers. Instead of celebrating their entreprenuerial spirit and seeking to partner with them to meet common challenges, there have been times where America has shown arrogance and been dismissive, even derisive.
Some of us wonder if our current Overseas Contingency Operation would even be needed had the last administration not been so quick to label Pirates as “thieves,” “terrorists” and worse. Such swashbucklaphobia can lead to tragic results, as we have seen this week.
10 April 2009
It is obvious to me that that the arrogance and stubborn nature of the previous administration is the motivation behind the community outreach exhibited by these unfortunate souls. We made them do it. We taunted them with our Western goods, our debauchery, our excesses. They only want a better life and are doing what they can to get it. They are reaching out for cargo that Americans won’t reach for.
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