Counterpoint
Since I started this campaign my focus has been on running to represent the misrepresented.
I have crafted a platform that is focused on closing the largest unemployment gap between black and white workers in the entire country, as well as the largest achievement gap in education between black and white students. Both are found right here in our Twin Cities.
By 2050 the United States will be 51 percent minority. If we allow these gaps to persist here and throughout the country, America's economy will be incapable of sustaining itself. By working together we can expand the economic pie and secure a future of inclusion and progress for all who choose to take responsibility for themselves, their families and our community.
But the divisive, self-serving, even narcissistic, practices of the past will not achieve this goal. We need change and the time to act is now.
For over a year I have challenged Rep. Keith Ellison's focus and commitment to the people of the Fifth Congressional District.
Congressman Ellison has been in public office for 10 years. By now we should have seen measurable progress given his "deep community ties."
Recent editorials laud the congressman for being an effective advocate for those in our district, including those facing foreclosure ("Ellison serves district well," Oct. 29). If that is true, where were the public complaints while the Obama administration, under the Wall Street-dominated bias of its Treasury Secretary, Timothy Geitner, ignored homeowners in need of mortgage modifications, siding instead with banks that fought to wait out adjustments to their balance sheets and servicers who profited from defaulting borrowers?