Despite What Michael Moore Says, Hope is Still Alive

RE-POSTED FROM MY FACEBOOK NOTE --

I just finished watching Michael Moore's new "Slacker Uprising." Moore released this movie for free on the internet, with the hope that as many people as possible saw it before the election, and it would encourage them to vote. I figured, great, who better than the master of agitprop himself to spring people into action. The marketing on this is awesome. The web site encourages you to download the movie for free, and show it, for free, to as many people as possible. In a time when voter turn out is going to decide an election, attempts like this to encourage young people should be applauded. Young people right now are so disillusioned by the electoral process, we need something positive to look to. However,

IF YOU ARE AT ALL DISILLUSIONED BY THE ELECTORAL PROCESS, DO NOT WATCH "SLACKER UPRISING."


It's not about issues, and it's not about young people. It's about Michael Moore, how cool he is, and how many sweet celebrity friends he has. The movie chronicles his 2004 Slacker Uprising tour, as it swept across battleground states encouraging young people to vote, volunteer, and get other young people to vote. Great concept, but as I watched Michael Moore jerk himself off, I waited for the point. In the end, we're treated to graphics telling us that all the cities Moore visited went to Kerry. Young people turned out in record numbers, and young voters were the only voting block Kerry won.

That's right.

We've been told our entire young lives that if we just come together and vote, young people can tip an election. Well, according to Michael Moore, that's not true.

I prefer to ignore Michael Moore and listen to a woman featured in the first ten minutes of the film. (paraphrased) "If you think your vote doesn't count, the only way to assure it won't is to not vote at all."

People, you're young, your savings are being eaten up by student loans and overpriced rent. You probably don't have a job that provides health insurance, and you will soon need a new car. One day you maybe want to buy a house, or afford to fill up your car for a family vacation. If you want kids, you probably don't want them to be stupid.

Wake up early on November 4th, and vote before work. Let's call this election democracy's last chance. If your guy wins, that hope will carry you for years to come, but if your guy loses, feel free to give up. But for the love of Pete, give democracy one last chance.

AND FOR THE LOVE OF GOD, DO NOT WATCH "SLACKER UPRISING."