Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009

Read the story and see the video of the first bill Obama signed as President. It makes it easier for women to sue for discrimination and pay in the workplace.

A good thing!

The White House - Blog Post - A Wonderful Day (Update: Video): "Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009"

Here is some background on Lilly Ledbetter and her case.

(By the way, you may notice one of our Senators, Patty Murray, standing among the key lawmakers behind the President - she played an important role in promoting this bill.)

The Inauguration. At Last. - And the Pursuit of Happiness Blog - NYTimes.com

One artist's reflections on attending the inauguration of Barack Obama - 44th President of the United States of America.

The Inauguration. At Last. - And the Pursuit of Happiness Blog - NYTimes.com

Republicans Choose First Black Party Chairman

It is about time! Good luck to Michael Steele as he seeks to redeem the image of the Republican Party, the G.O.P., and yes, the "Party of Lincoln".
It is going to take more than a non-white face to attract more voters though. Republicans have to show that they care about more than tax cuts that favor the rich and an intolerant brand of Christianity. If the party is really going to open its arms to all of America, it has got to take a good look at America, and respond with policy positions that help all Americans.

No more gay bashing. No more racially charged code language in campaign ads that play on white fears of things such as "urban crime" and "welfare queens". No more stigmatizing all Latinos, Asians, and Africans by fanatical crusades against illegal immigrants. No more unanimous opposition to economic stimulus bills. No more lies and misrepresentations of intelligence data to scare Americans into unnecessary wars.

Good luck Mr. Steele - you've got your work cut out for you.

Republicans Choose First Black Party Chairman - NYTimes.com

Protests across Russia

The economic crisis that began in the housing and financial sectors of the United States has sparked a world-wide economic downturn. Here are some stories from the BBC about how Russians are reacting to the hard times. One wonders how Vladimir Putin and the government he still retains tremendous influence will react to political expression aimed at his administration.

BBC NEWS Europe Thousands protest across Russia


From January 21: Police break up Russian protests


From December: Russia's industrial output slumps

Rep. Upthegrove targets special deal for student-athletes

Kudos to Dave Upthegrove for taking on a small, but unfair practice favoring student-athletes over other students in UW admissions.

Equality of opportunity is a core American value, and must be defended in places big and small.

In tough economic times, equal access to higher education is more important than ever. If we don't have room for every deserving student at our state universities (and we should!) let us at least make decisions on the basis of academic merit.

Keep fighting the good fight Dave!

Education Legislator targets special deal for student-athletes

Bush's 'War' On Terror Comes to a Sudden End - washingtonpost.com

Bush's 'War' On Terror Comes to a Sudden End - washingtonpost.com

Barack Hussein Obama - 44th President of the United States

An interactive photograph of those present: An Closer Look at the Inaugural Ceremony

Read or view his address: Transcript - Barack Obama’s Inaugural Address - Text - NYTimes.com

Photo Slide Show of Obama's aides and advisors

U.S. Citizens Hopeful About Obama Administration

It is a good sign when the American people have optimism about an incoming President, and Barack Obama seems to be enjoying a higher level of confidence in him than any incoming President in quite a long time.

While 79% of those surveyed said they were feeling optimistic about life over the next four years according to a poll conducted by the New York Times, the most encouraging statistic is that 58% of those who voted for John McCain said they were "optimistic" about an Obama administration.

For more details on the survey complete with graphs, check out the link:

Poll Finds Faith in Obama, Mixed With Patience - NYTimes.com

Tax Cuts for Teachers - NYTimes.com

Well, you know I agree with this idea - thanks to Thomas Friedman of the New York Times for the vote of confidence.

Op-Ed Columnist - Tax Cuts for Teachers - NYTimes.com