H is for Humanity

We are proud of our culture.
We are proud of our Humanity.
We are proud of the way we care for others,
We are proud of our legal system,
And its protection for all.

But where’s the humanity –
In a culture that awards 'support' to eighty percent of its custodial mothers –
- but only thirty percent of its custodial fathers?
In a culture that denies almost forty percent of its fathers any access to their children?
In a culture where almost eighty percent of non-custodial fathers are denied any visitation?
In a culture where two thirds of dads who don’t pay support are unable to –
- but are labeled deadbeats?
- are denied adjustments?
- have their possessions seized?
- have their licenses and passports taken?
- have their unemployment, if they are lucky enough to get it, garnished to 65%?
- are thrown in jail?

Where’s the humanity in a system that claims that
‘unemployment and underemployment are no grounds for a modification in support’?

While The Poverty Studies Institute at the University of Wisconsin’s 1993 study found 52% of fathers who owe child support earn less than $6,155 per year.

Less than six thousand dollars a year.

While our 'humane government' pursues them.
Blackmails their families, and incarcerates them.

Where’s the humanity?

I’m sorry to say it isn’t in the system.
It isn’t in the government,
And it isn’t with the women.

This isn’t humanity. This is slavery.

And it stinks.

-M

U is for Unbelief

Not so long ago I was talking to a lawyer, because one of my friends, once again, couldn't believe that things are the way they are in family court.

What is funny is that another friend over the last half-month spent their own time and money researching the same thing on my behalf for the same reason - they couldn't believe me, and my lovely partner. Couldn't believe that I was effectively a slave and there was nothing to do. They got the same answer, an answer that said that there was no hope, and whereas bankruptcy might keep me off the street, nothing would keep me from being a slave.

What is less funny is that I just reported on the results of my efforts to the first unbeliever. And that friend still doesn't believe. "There is something wrong there." Sure there is.

We don't want to imagine our country, our legal system has gotten this out of control, become this evil. But it has. Need evidence besides my word, and all the same tired statistics? Here's one: imagine being put in jail, actual debtor's prison, for 14 years because your ex claims you stashed away some money that she wants, without ever having a hope of a trial, or even a charge against you. It happens, and in this case (H. Beatty Chadwick) it has happened.

Hide your heads in the sand, unbelievers. It won't save you or your brothers, or husbands.

And you can continue to wonder why marriage rates dwindle and the country becomes weaker and weaker.

My best to you in your struggles!

-M

B is for Biting My Tongue

Just recently spent some serious time amongst the higher reaches of academia, hanging out with people who spend their time reading, writing and discussing various cerebral topics.

My sample wasn't statistical, but the amount of "Women's Studies" and "Feminist xxx" and "Feminist XXX Research" was very impressive.

I only asked once where the "Masculist Studies" group was. Otherwise I bit my tongue. But you know, there was no "Masculist Studies" group. Of course not.

So I decided to take some time and examine the place where this confabulation was being held. Spent some time walking the streets, and saw much of the city. Saw a small town of homeless men, occupying a desolate and cold square next to a highway. The men were moving about, arranging and 'repairing' the rags and ripped tarps that they were using for shelter on the cold, mostly bare ground that they were occupying.

Also saw a shiny multi-story women's shelter with frosted glass on the windows, with a 'homeless' woman out front, obviously a resident, well fed, dressed, sheltered and groomed who begged me for change.

I'd like to see some change, myself.

Thanks to those who have donated,
Thanks to those who have helped,
My Best to All of You In Your Struggles.