The new meaning of Going Green

The new meaning of Going Green

Been following the political uprising in Iran via the liveblog at The Huffington Post (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/06/13/iran-demonstrations-viole_n_215189.html) every day since it started, and I must say, it really puts my recently increased involvement in democracy (http://sumocat.blogspot.com/2009/06/why-i-voted-for-creigh-deeds.html) in perspective. Here I am casting one more ballot every two years, and there they are demonstrating by the thousands. I've marched in protests before, but never in a crowd like that or under the potential threat of military reprisal. Makes me question why we didn't rise up in protest when the popular vote was dismissed in 2000. When it comes to fighting for democracy, the people of Iran put us to shame.

On the other hand, if all they fight for is to have their votes accurately counted in their presidential election, then what they're really fighting for is the illusion of democracy. The unelected Supreme Leader controls the military, mosques, courts and media. The president isn't much more than a figurehead and administrator. Furthermore, the Supreme Leader approves all presidential candidates before they run, and he certainly wouldn't approve someone who opposes his rule. That said, this uprising could be the catalyst for real change in Iran.

As we wait and watch the events unfold, all I can do is hope for a peaceful outcome and show my support by flashing some green, the signature color of the opposition candidate. Good luck.

Oh, and I guess I can't make fun of Twitter anymore, as the green revolution is being tweeted in segments of 140 characters.
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