Democracy vs Emergency Managers

Latest

Protesters rally against Right To Work and for democracy at the state capitol in Lansing, Michigan. Photo/daymonJhartley.com
Protesters rally against Right To Work and for democracy at the state capitol in Lansing, Michigan. Photo/daymonJhartley.com

CHICAGO—The creation of a new form of government, which was adopted by the Michigan Legislature and recently enacted by Governor Rick Snyder, begs the question, “What is a representative government?” The independent act of hiring “Emergency Managers” seems to erase the concept of “Individual Rights” as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution… a duly elected government; one man, one vote.
The Emergency Managers were all chosen by the Governor. Even Warlocks don’t have that kind of power, but Wizards do. Yea, the Wizard is the one duly elected, statewide official who can wave his wand, blink his eyes and eliminate sovereignty created by local units of municipal government.
The Wizard has now chosen to override any and all decisions made by duly elected officials. Humm, that’s ODD, because this has only occurred in cities with predominately minority, low-income populations, who vote Democratic. Did I mention that Wizard is a Republican? Oh really you say!
The Wizard of ODD selects a few names and allows the people to choose the EMs they are prepared to work with? Oh no, the Wizard pulls the selections from his sleeves. So in addition to dwindling municipal revenues, due to real estate taxes being levied on a mass of foreclosed homes, devalued Bond ratings, crumbling infrastructure and massive unemployment, the Wizard has added another layer to the payroll. What a feat!
The new EM in Detroit is a Democrat who happens to be Black! Mr. Orr, better known as the “Sacrificial Lamb,” is a Bankruptcy attorney, handpicked by the Wizard, with an annual salary of over $200,000. What I find interesting is that the entire GOP has about 7 or 8 Blacks they can march out for political functions, but somehow the Wizard selected a Black-Democrat to save the City of Detroit. Even the Wizard of ODD knows where to go to find real talent.
Well—Well, wouldn’t it just be interesting if the good Reverend and a few of the Council members, while having an informal breakfast confab, happened to be in the same place where the new EM is having his grits, toast and eggs. Expectations for the success of the new EM, and the City of Detroit, are at best considered meager. However without some type of support or consultation from informed members of the Council, it may become MISSION IMPOSSIBLE. Could that be what the Wizard is counting on, for history to repeat itself? You know the one about “we” just cannot come together.
So what have you got to lose if the Wizard gets taught a lesson beyond his subjective view of “Plantation Politics?” A lesson about what can be achieved by Black men, real men working together for the people? This is all about taking what was chosen to fail, and turning it into a WIN-WIN for all. Why not? The Wizard likes eggs too; but not on his face.
“Pride-n-Purpose”

+ Articles by this author

The People’s Tribune opens its pages to voices of the movement for change. Our articles are written by individuals or organizations, along with our own reporting. Bylined articles reflect the views of the authors. Articles entitled “From the Editors” reflect the views of the editorial board. Please credit the source when sharing: peoplestribune.orgPlease donate to help us keep bringing you voices of the movement for change. Click here. We’re all volunteer, no paid staff. The People’s Tribune is a 501C4 organization.

Featured

Dolly Parton: More Than a Legend

Dolly Parton never had to stop being Appalachian to become an international icon, or pretend poverty didn't shape her, or that the mountains were something she had escaped. She simply took what she learned there and carried it farther.

In Memory of Tenant Leader Annie Chambers, Longtime Advocate For Baltimore’s Poor

Reverend Annie Chambers leaves behind an unparalleled legacy of grassroots activism and unconditional love for her people, her family, her community and all those that struggle to survive.

Pearson’s TN Win Rebukes Corporate Dems & Attack on Voting Rights

The decisive victory of Justin Pearson in the Tennessee Democratic congressional primary marked a rebuke of both the corporate Democrats and the attack on the Voting Rights Act.

Citizens United Takes a Hit in Michigan Primary

In electing Abdul El-Sayed, voters rejected money in politics, defeating the pro-Israel and corporate funded campaign of his opponent in the amount of $70 million, making it among the most ever spent in a Democratic Party primary!

Death Toll Expected to Rise: Justice for Those in Detention

Detainees in ICE detention are pleading for help due to inhumane conditions. Now, as of August 4, 2026, at least 24 detainees have died in custody this year alone.

More from the People's Tribune