The REAL problem in WV [View All]

[pkz]

First off let me say...I am a proud WV'an and I am saying this because ONLY a lifelong Mountaineer can say it and get away with it.
Even I would cringe if an outsider said it as a generalization. ;)

West Virginia's problem is not racism, it is ignorance.

I do mean the kind of ignorance that has been inbred. They do not WANT to change, they do not embrace new ways, new things or current fads.
Seriously, some are just now catching up to the late '80s and '90s. Think big hair, jeans with holes in them on purpose.
Satellite TV and cable could have opened some eyes, but not when the favorite shows are American Idol and My Name is Earl

Internet? still not available in rural areas. No contact with the outside world. Seriously, word of mouth and local news is it, in some places.
The glass is half empty here. The most rural areas are literally brainwashed into thinking the move up is the head of the holler.

West Virginia IS small town America, everyone knows someone that knows someone, all politicians are related to you or your neighbor.
A small close knit bunch. Nepotism is very common. Loyalty has been forever bought by those with power. That power came from fear or money.
Coal mines were the catalyst for both, fear borne of ignorance is a powerful tool and a weapon, as well.

About racism~ I formed a theory long ago. All cultures develop a system to define themselves. Most choose a lower class to make themselves seem the superior one.
A guy from New Jersey would think a redneck, hillbilly, or hick way lower than him on the totem pole.
In the northern part of the state, the people look down on the southern Scot-Irish hill folks. They talk different, even have a dialect all their own.
To some in the north, one can get no lower than to be part of the southeastern armpit of the state. (not my words, common regional speak)
Those are the folks use racism to feel superior. The poorest of the poor, looking to feel better about themselves.

I am not happy about the focus on my state now. I cannot excuse the cultural difference in this state, you have to be from here to understand.
And...sometimes that is not even enough.

I can plow a garden, shoot a gun, and look as redneck as any gal at the county fair, but I am also a college educated middle class white woman with internet access and I am well read, I also clean up pretty darn good.

I am ashamed of the Clintons now. I am ashamed of any West Virginian that would buy into their talk.
The Clinton message of late is one that will keep us divided and will continue to divide Appalachia from the rest of our country.

Obama has a message of change, a platform of uniting us once again.

I am a proud Obama supporter from the mighty State of West Virginia!