Family Guy Actor: "That [Joke] Bothered Me Too"

By Adrienne Ross - www.motivationtruth.com

Whereas some people have come out to tell Governor Palin to lighten up about the "Family Guy" episode, insisting it was just a joke and she needs to get a sense of humor, one "Family Guy" actor has come out to express his objection to the joke. Good for him!

Lisa de Moraes of Washingtonpost.com reports:

Not everyone who works on Fox animated sitcom "Family Guy" is standing in solidarity with its Valentine's Day episode's Sarah Palin gag.

Cast member Patrick Warburton told TV critics Wednesday he objected to the joke.

"I know it's satire but, personally, that [joke] bothered me too," Warburton said on a conference call to promote his other primetime show, CBS's sitcom "Rules of Engagement," which returns for a fourth season on March 1. (On "Family Guy" Warburton does the voice of the wheelchair-bound police officer, Joe.)

"I know that you have to be an equal-opportunity offender, but there are some things that I just don't think are funny."

The former Alaskan governor/GOP vice presidential contender and her daughter Bristol lashed out at the show and at "Fox Hollywood" network over the episode, in which a teenaged girl character with Down syndrome say her mother was a former governor of Alaska. Sarah Palin's youngest son has the same condition.

Series creator Seth MacFarlane shrugged it off with a statement about the show being an "equal-opportunity offender."

[...]

Warburton appears to be the first person involved with the show in any way, shape, or form who has publicly broken ranks.

"Look, I have fun. I like Seth. He's got a great comic mind and I think that the show can be fantastically funny. But I do believe that it can be hurtful at times," Warburton said in response to a question about the episode posed by WaPo Team TV's "Family Guy" bureau chief Emily Yahr.

Warburton is to be commended for speaking up on behalf of decency, something that so many others seem to lack whenever it comes to the Palins. It's not easy to take the stand that he has taken when others have voiced an entirely different perspective. Not many others would do it. As for me, if I'm going to call out those who do wrong, I'd better be just as willing to thank those who do right--and I am. I extend a big "thank you" to Warburton for being man enough--and just plain human enough--to do the right thing.

Read the full article and all of Warburton's comments here.

UPDATE: If Sarah Palin were Liberal....- A Post by Conservative Girl with a Voice

As you all are well aware, the sitcom Family Guy recently took a swipe at Sarah Palin and her son Trig. (Read more about it here.) It sickens me that a show would go the lengths it did to make fun of Sarah and her son. As I mentioned in the post above, NO child should be made fun of or belittled. Many may be unaware of the actress who is the voice behind the Down Syndrome character. The actress's name is Andrea Friedman, and like her character, she too has Down Syndrome. While I don't at all agree with Andrea's choice to play a role that mocked Sarah and Trig, this is not what bothers me; instead, it is a letter she has chosen to distribute to the New York Times.

I guarantee that had Sarah member a member of the left, she and her son would NOT have been mocked in this manner. A great example of one such individual is David Axelrod who, like Sarah, has a (grown) child with special needs. Now, before the left becomes unhinged and cries out, "Well, David Axelrod never parades his daughter around" I will tell them that, during the election, Parade Magazine did a piece on Axelrod and his daughter. David Axelrod's daughter has been treated with respect and dignity, which should ALWAYS be the case, but where are the people to speak out when little Trig is attacked? Where is the fairness, justice and respect for him? After learning of Andrea's letter, liberal media outlets like the Daily Kos, Huffington Post and Gawker reporting the letter's (see below) contents.

Andrea's Letter:

My name is Andrea Fay Friedman. I was born with Down Syndrome. I played the role of Ellen on the "Extra Large Medium" episode of Family Guy that was broadcast on Valentine's day. Although they gave me red hair on the show, I am really a blonde. I also wore a red wig for my role in " Smudge" but I was a blonde in "Life Goes On". I guess former Governor Palin does not have a sense of humor. I thought the line "I am the daughter of the former governor of Alaska" was very funny. I think the word is "sarcasm".

In my family we think laughing is good. My parents raised me to have a sense of humor and to live a normal life. My mother did not carry me around under her arm like a loaf of French bread the way former Governor Palin carries her son Trig around looking for sympathy and votes.


This letter should upset you as much as it does me. I usually do not spend my time on trivial issues, but when I learned of what was present in it, I became outraged at just how mean spirited some people could be. How dare Andrea say that Sarah's treats little Trig like a prop and carries him around like a loaf of bread? As someone with Down Syndrome herself, Andrea should know firsthand of the challenges Trig has ahead of him. Didn't it occur to her that little Trig will one day be old enough to learn that someone else in the special needs community called him a prop and equated him to a piece of food? While I commend Andrea for overcoming challenges to become a successful actress, I am disgusted that she would use her platform as an actress and advocate belittling the Palins this way. Sarah is a great mother who loves her family with all her heart. I look up to her so much for the way she includes her family in so many aspects of her life. She is not ashamed of her children; instead, she is very proud of each and every one of them. You can see it in the way she talks about them. You can see it in the way interacts with them. You can see in the way her children have turned out. She and Todd are excellent parents who have taught their kids what matters: God, family and country. I always say that if I turn out to be half the wife and mother Sarah is, I'd be a happy woman!

It is so clear that Andrea has a liberal bias. What I think Andrea fails to understand is that, although she does not see the harm the role she played has caused, not everyone thinks the same way she does as one reader commented over on Gawker. Andrea is a strong woman who has a successful career, so why does she feel the need to attack a woman as gracious and generous as Sarah? A woman who CHOSE to give life to her child. Although Sarah and her family are well-known individuals, they are still considered private citizens. I hate to break it to Andrea, but Trig is not the prop, she is. I say this because just as others individuals like Levi Johnston are being used by the media to tear apart Sarah and her family and to push their liberal agenda forward, so too is Andrea. She may not realize it now, but she will, and it is only a matter of time before the liberal media who swallowed her up spits her out. We can only pray that Andrea realizes this before it happens.


THERE IS ANOTHER ISSUE I WOULD LIKE TO ADDRESS: I want to commend Fox News Channels Greta Van Susteren for her tireless advocacy for women in politics. It is no secret that Greta is a great woman herself who believes women should be given the same opportunities and treated with the same fairness as their male counterparts. Today on her Greta Wire Blog, Greta blogged about the absurdity of liberal Washington Post Columnist Sally Quinn:

In July, Sally Quinn, columnist in the Washington Post, defended David Letterman for his comments about Governor Sarah Palin and her daughter. In doing so, she criticized Governor Palin. My "favorite" of her criticisms ? It is in bold blue text below. Read below and then you decide who is putting family first - the mother defending her child from the comments of a talk show host who coincidentally cheats on his wife? or the wife who conveniently schedules a wedding so that her husband can't attend the wedding of a grandchild from a former marriage...and then writes a column to sugar coat it when it hits the gossip circuit in DC.

We report, you decide.

Here are Sally Quinn's comments about Gov Palin...followed by a link to her explanation.

".....Well, clearly, [Governor Sarah Palin] has not put her family first … And these children have, it seems publicly, to have been exploited by her in a, I think, really unfortunate way … She brings them all to the convention, including Trig, the baby. She brings the pregnant daughter with the boyfriend who clearly didn’t want to be there. She then travels around with the children, using them as sort of photo ops … she brings the children up when she needs them to shore up her own image....." [MS/NBC]

Click here to visit Greta Wire and read the rest of Greta's post, including Greta's reaction to Quinn's vile comments; it is a definite MUST READ! Greta is reporting on an issue that so many in the liberal msm are unwilling to do. Just as I and many others have called out the terrible, malicious actions of the sitcom Family Guy, Greta is taking a stand and calling it like she sees it!!! Thank you, Greta, for being a fair, objective journalist AND champion for women!!! As a woman, I thank you!!!



(I want to thank Karen Allen for the beautiful image of Sarah and Trig with the verse above. Click here to visit Conservative Girl with a Voice and become a follower. Click here to follow me on Twitter.)

Targeting the Kindest Among Us: A Post by Conservative Girl with a Voice

When looking at how the Obama children and Palin children are treated by the media and Hollywood, it is clear there is a huge double standard. I don't have to tell you about the countless numbers of attacks that have been aimed at the Palin kids, while the Obama kids are continually praised and left alone. The treatment the Obama kids receive is the same treatment that the Palin kids should be privy to. Remember, you don't have to think that far back to the time when President Obama declared a candidate's children should be "off limits" to attacks. I agree with President Obama for once, but I will take his point one step further. I believe ALL children should be off limits when it comes to personal attacks. Supposedly we live in a time in which tolerance is preached, but isn't it funny that those who preach it, do not seem to practice it themselves?

I don't have to go into detail listing the countless number of attacks the Palin kids have had to endure; you are well aware of many of them, but it is the latest attack that has me sickened with disgust at Hollywood in general. Many of you have probably already heard about the hurtful lengths the FOX Hollywood sitcom Family Guy went to this past Sunday, Valentine's Day. For those of you who are unaware of the controversy at hand, here is what happen: This episode depicted a young woman with Down Syndrome. Not only did they make this woman have a snarky attitude, which is terrible in itself, but it is what was said and whom was referred to that was the most tasteless. When asked by another character to talk a little bit about her family, the young woman replied that her dad was "an accountant" and her mom was "the former governor of Alaska." There it is again- another cut at Sarah and her family. Trig Palin is a child who is not even old enough to tie his shoes, let alone defend himself- He's a small child for goodness sake. Where is the justice? Where is the respect? Where are the special needs advocacy groups to speak out on this injustice? Where is the head of the Special Olympics to speak out about this? After all they recently spoke out against Rahm Emanuel's "retarded" comments. Where are the groups to defend innocent, little Trig Palin?

This is the kind of story that effects all of us personally. Like many of you, I know many individuals who have Down Syndrome. How dare this show make fun of Trig and people like him? I am so disgusted at the tasteless actions of Hollywood, and I sometimes find myself ashamed to even admit that I live in such close proximity to it. Don't get me wrong. I love my state and the great people who live here, but when liberal Hollywood continues to belittle individuals and push a liberal agenda, it does a HUGE disservice not only to others, but to image of California in general. It is wrong to make fun of those with special needs, let alone unfairly portray them as snarky. I have NEVER run across any person with Down Syndrome who has such an attitude. On the contrary, if the Family Guy folks had any common decency, they would have at least portrayed the character in a fair manner, but then again, this is Hollywood, a place where decency seems to have flatlined.

The individuals whom I personally know with Down Syndrome are not snarky or mean in any way; instead, they happen to be the kindest, gentlest, most generous people who walk amongst us. It is no secret that they know they are different than everyone else, yet they have a can-do attitude and are so resilient to those who make it a point to let them know they are different. Why make it harder on them? Why continue to belittle them and treat them as outcast members of our society? I strongly believe that individuals with special needs are what make our country so great. They are so strong and loving that these Family Guy Hollywood types and those like them could learn a thing or two about acceptance and unconditional love. When individuals with special needs are treated differently, they they know it. Trig is a child who will grow up with enough challenges, so why do individuals continue to make it harder for him? It is time for Hollywood to realize that no two individuals are alike. It is time they quite making fun of people and start treat EVERYONE with the respect they deserve.

The attacks the Palin family continues to endure illustrate just how divided our country remains. Remember when Mr. Obama said he was going to bring the country together? I do too. His words sounded great at the time, but the inaction on his part when it comes to this issue speaks volumes especially after he and members of his administration have made hurtful comments about those with special needs in the past. Our country seems more divided than ever. The partisan politics that exist today leave me to wonder if our country will ever heal from its divisive wounds. While many are attacked, it seems as though the attacks aimed at the Palins far outweigh the attacks others receive. When are people going to realize that attacking a child is the most evil attack of all.

My good friend, Camille Friend, who runs the blog The Design Conservative
has written about this issue too. She was nice enough to list the show's sponsors on her site. I encourage you all to read her post here. I also encourage to visit and read this post by Adrienne Ross, another good friend of mine who runs the blog Motivation: Truth.


LIST OF SHOW SPONSORS for February 14, 2010 episode:

Camille is right when she writes: Contact the sponsors below to let them know how you feel about the decision of Family Guy producers to make light of the challenges facing Trig Palin and his loving family. Encourage these companies to stand up for the Palins and the thousands of families like them. Tell them that enough is enough! - tdc

* Fox Broadcasting Company - 310-369-1000http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
* YUM! Brands (Pizza Hut) - 502-874-8300
* Red Bull North America Inc. - 310-393-4647
* Mars, Inc. - 703-821-4900
* Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. - 800-331-4331
* Bally Total Fitness Holdings Corp. - 773-399-1300
* Pfizer, Inc. - 212-573-2323
* Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company - 312-644-2121
* Universal Pictures - 818-777-1000

(Click here to visit Conservative Girl with a Voice. Click here to follow me on Twitter.)

"Family Guy" Not Kind To One Family - The Palins

One of the nice things about blogging is being able to join together with like-minded folks with a common mission. Today the bloggers came out in force in support of Sarah Palin and her son Trig, and against the show "Family Guy" and it's intolerance. Below are links to various writer's articles on the subject:

Leave Governor Palin’s Children Alone! (UPDATED with Gov. Palin’s Facebook Note)

Family Guy mocks Palin and special needs community

Family Guy: Equal Opportunity Jerks (Update of previous “Leave Gov. Palin’s Children Alone!”)

Gov Palin & O’Reilly Discuss Tea Party & Special Needs

These posts articulate, much better than I could, many of the facts and feelings surrounding this. I can't speak for others but I can speak about my own experiences.

When my youngest son was born with special needs, it was found that he could benefit from an early intervention program. I met so many wonderful families with beautiful children, many with Down syndrome, and have kept some of those friendships nearly 20 years. These children are gifts from God, a reminder of what beauty is. They have the purest of hearts and don't get caught up in all the drama and pettiness that consumes the rest of us. My other son, who is autistic, is much like this. He is trusting, sometimes to a fault. He feels no ill will toward people and thankfully, was oblivious to much of the ridicule when he was smaller.

I remember one incident in particular when he was about 12. He was always a big kid for his age, and was once described as being "perpetual motion in the flesh." He never sat down, was always on the move, had volume control issues and a great deal of difficulty with body language and personal space. He still, at the age of 22, gravitates toward things that people much younger than 22 are interested in. One thing he loved was going to the park. So, one day when he was 12, we went to the park.

Here we were during the day (because I homeschooled) and the park was filled with young mothers with their very young children. He would get so excited and bolt for the wooden fort with ladders and tunnels he barely fit in, but I would let him play there because he loved it so much. On this particular day, he bolted toward a group of small children as they played on this fort. I saw the mother of one girl who had to be about 2. She stared at my son and as he came closer, she pulled her child from the piece of equipment she was playing on and whisked her away, sheltering her from my son. All she could see was this big kid, who appeared to be a young adult, bolting toward her child. They just didn't understand. I'm grateful my son was not aware of what had happened. I, however, was painfully aware.

I wrote a poem about another experience with my youngest son, in which an after school director forced him to sit on a mat and not interact with other children for fear he would be "hurt" (at least that's what she said). It is titled "A Friend Like Me" and has been adopted my by many Down Syndrome organizations:

Please don't be afraid of me
I want to be your friend.
And if you get to know me
Your rigid thoughts might bend.

Thoughts that I am different
From others that you know,
I really am no different
And this I'd like to show.

I live and breathe and laugh and cry
I love to play and learn,
I sometimes do things differently
Which can cause some concern.

You see, some say I'm special
I guess this much is true,
But if you were to ask me
I'd say you're special too.

We're all a little different
No two are just the same,
It's really something wonderful
that way there is no blame.

When things don't go just perfectly
And others get confused,
And say things like "poor child"
and other terms they use.

It's okay if you look at me
And might not understand,
It's okay if you touch me
And even hold my hand.

My life has many obstacles
Much more than you could know,
But that's not what I dwell on
I'm me, that's all, and so...

Please don't be afraid of me
I want you just to see,
How truly great and wonderful
A friend like me can be.

I have also faced the stares, the pointing, the whispers under the breath about how the kids looked or behaved, and of course the ever-present criticism from people who just don't understand.

I never, however, had to face the depth and breadth of ridicule that Sarah Palin has had to face. Today I told one of my friends, a mother of a child with Down syndrome and disability advocate I've known 15 years, about what happened with the "Family Guy" episode. Her response was very direct, and telling:

"You flatter me if you think I can influence anyone to stop attacking people w/disabilities in the name of 'humor.' It is disturbing to see how 'acceptable' this has become. No other group of people are told to just accept the disrespect heaped on them."

She articulated the situation very well. When will this stop being acceptable for anyone with special needs? When will the attacks stop for Sarah, her kids, and her family?

My friend did rally the troops in her state to make calls to the sponsors of this show. WE ALL should be making those calls. These attacks need to stop and those who produce "Family Guy" need to understand that in no way is this acceptable.

- To see this post and others by Tracey Porreca, please check out Finding Myself In Alaska

Family Guy: Equal Opportunity Jerks (UPDATED W/ Fox CEO Contact Info)

By Adrienne Ross - www.motivationtruth.com

I do not watch "Family Guy" for one simple reason: I'm not a fan of puking my guts out and, no doubt, the show would create that kind of reaction from me. I've seen enough previews to know that it is the kind of thing I simply would not find humorous. I've seen their mocking of Jesus, for example, and frankly, I don't give place to that in my home.

Therefore, had it not been the subject of many a blog and email yesterday, I would not have known about Sunday's episode that alludes to Governor Palin and her son, Trig.

In the episode, a feisty girl with Down Syndrome has a date with a teenage boy. Forgive me for not knowing the names of any of the show's characters. Like I said, I have an aversion to puking; thus, my ignorance of the culture of "Family Guy."

As I began watching the video clip yesterday, I was scratching my head, for if there is any appeal at all to the show, I am completely oblivious to it. No, let me be honest: there isn't any. What I found was something that both angered and saddened me.

Upon demanding that she be asked about her family, the special needs character identifies her mother as "the former governor of Alaska." Without the use of names, it is an obvious reference to the Palins, as Trig has Down Syndrome and Palin is the former Alaska governor.

Much has been discussed, and even more written, about this episode. Even leftists acknowledge that this is below the belt. You can see the clip for yourself by clicking here. Personally, I cannot figure out why the Palin reference is necessary. I cannot figure out how it adds to the storyline. It certainly doesn't contribute to any humor that a good archaeologist might manage to dig up somewhere in this show.

"Family Guy" has taken a shot at Palin before. During the 2008 campaign, Palin and McCain were portrayed as Nazis. As insulting as that was, there is a major difference between that piece of trash and this one. That one went after adults. Sunday's attack? That attack involved a child. That attack revealed, as Bristol Palin so wisely stated, "that they're heartless jerks."

As far as I'm concerned, personal attacks are just asinine. Nonetheless, we adults have learned to just plow through them. However, when people's children are placed on the chopping block, a line is crossed that simply cannot be tolerated.

Let me remind you: Barack Obama told the media early in his candidacy to leave his children alone. He was right to make such a request/demand--and everyone obeyed. Children of public figures should be off-limits. Governor Palin's children deserve the same respect President Obama's children have been given, which is the same respect every child deserves.

So in the name of decency, "Family Guy"--and everyone else who has declared a never-ending hunting season on her children: "Leave Governor Palin's children alone!"

But what does the show's creator have to say?

The Times asked "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane for an interview regarding the matter. But he opted to send a statement via his publicist: "From its inception, 'Family Guy' has used biting satire as the foundation of its humor. The show is an "equal-opportunity offender."

Really? Well, if he wants to be "an equal opportunity offender," then he deserves "an equal opportunity" response from the people. If this is his only means of getting laughs, perhaps the show needs to find some new people who understand that there's no comedy in demeaning a special needs boy and his mother.

I am calling on all of us to contact the sponsors of Sunday's show to tell them exactly how we feel about the disgusting, heartless sense of humor displayed on "Family Guy" Sunday night.

Governor Palin wrote in her Facebook note that this "felt like another kick in the gut." It's time we kick back. You are consumers; therefore, you are powerful. Use that power.

There will be those who will say contacting sponsors, boycotting companies, and making our voices heard are over the top. To those people I say look at the clip of "Family Guy" mocking Trig--an innocent, precious gift from God who means as much to his family as your children and loved ones mean to you. Now tell me it's over the top!

Here's the contact information (Be sure to contact Fox):

Fox News: Rupert Murdoch, Chairman and CEO, News Corporation - 212-852-7000

Fox Broadcasting Company - 310-369-1000

YUM! Brands (Pizza Hut) - 502-874-8300
Red Bull North America Inc. - 310-393-4647
Mars, Inc. - 703-821-4900
Toyota Motor Sales, Inc. - 800-331-4331
Bally Total Fitness Holdings Corp. - 773-399-1300
Pfizer, Inc. - 212-573-2323
Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company - 312-644-2121
Universal Pictures - 818-777-1000

(H/T thedesignconservative)

Leave Governor Palin's Children Alone! (UPDATED with Gov. Palin's Facebook Note)

By Adrienne Ross - www.motivationtruth.com

I do not watch "Family Guy" for one simple reason: I'm not a fan of puking my guts out, and no doubt the show would create that kind of reaction from me. I've seen enough previews to know that it is the kind of thing I simply would not find humorous. I've seen their mocking of Jesus, for example, and frankly, I don't give place to that in my home.

Therefore, had it not been the talk of the day, I would not have known about last night's episode that alludes to Governor Palin and her son, Trig.

In the episode, a feisty girl with Down Syndrome has a date with a teenage boy. Forgive me for not knowing these characters' names. Like I said, I prefer not puking.

The special needs character identifies her mother as "the former governor of Alaska." Without the use of names, it is an obvious reference to the Palins, as Trig has Down Syndrome and Palin is the former Alaska governor.

There has been a lot written and much discussed today about this episode. Even leftists see this as below the belt. You can see the clip and decide for yourself by clicking here. Personally, I cannot figure out why the Palin reference was necessary. I cannot figure out how it adds to the storyline. It certainly doesn't contribute to any humor that might be found somewhere in this show. All I have to say is this: Barack Obama told the media early in his candidacy to leave his children alone. He was right to make such a request/demand--and everyone obliged. Children of public figures should be off limits. Governor Palin's children deserve the same respect President Obama's children have been given, which is the same respect every child deserves.

So in the name of decency, "Family Guy" (and everyone else who has declared a never-ending hunting season on her children): "Leave Governor Palin's children alone!"

UPDATED with Governor Palin's Facebook note:

Fox Hollywood – What a Disappointment

People are asking me to comment on yesterday’s Fox show that felt like another kick in the gut. Bristol was one who asked what I thought of the show that mocked her baby brother, Trig (and/or others with special needs), in an episode yesterday. Instead of answering, I asked her what she thought. Here is her conscientious reply, which is a much more restrained and gracious statement than I want to make about an issue that begs the question, “when is enough, enough?”:

“When you’re the son or daughter of a public figure, you have to develop thick skin. My siblings and I all have that, but insults directed at our youngest brother hurt too much for us to remain silent. People with special needs face challenges that many of us will never confront, and yet they are some of the kindest and most loving people you’ll ever meet. Their lives are difficult enough as it is, so why would anyone want to make their lives more difficult by mocking them? As a culture, shouldn’t we be more compassionate to innocent people – especially those who are less fortunate? Shouldn’t we be willing to say that some things just are not funny? Are there any limits to what some people will do or say in regards to my little brother or others in the special needs community? If the writers of a particularly pathetic cartoon show thought they were being clever in mocking my brother and my family yesterday, they failed. All they proved is that they’re heartless jerks. - Bristol Palin”

- Sarah Palin

* bumped

Sarah Palin: Detractors have it all wrong

I have been cruising the web, reading the stories, and shaking my head. It doesn't surprise me anymore, the vicious attacks against Sarah Palin and her family, although it does sadden me. With all the media coverage surrounding Sarah's book tour, a new sling of accusations against our former governor have emerged, once again focusing on her as a wife and mother.

I tend not to read the comments posted by readers of online articles, particularly those commenting on articles involving Sarah. There will be comments by supporters, but more often than not there will be comments by those who have nothing good to say, and pick apart those who do. Reading articles I have seen a common thread in recent days, attacking Sarah once again. These comments accuse her of using the kids as props, traveling with the kids, and even a comment about Trig not having shoes on in one video clip, asking "what kind of mother are you?" of Sarah.

Remember Princess Diana? I thought today of an article written years ago after Prince William, her oldest, was born. It said that Princess Diana would spend time playing music in Prince William's nursery, even standing over him with a camera, clicking away so that he could get used to the sound of the cameras that would flash his image and follow him everywhere he went. This is their reality, the reality of someone in the spotlight. Trig, who has Down Syndrome, seems to have adjusted very well to all the attention which might not have been the case had his family not gotten him used to the attention. Supporters are interested in seeing the children, because it is part of who Sarah is - she is a working mother - and many of us admire her for that. Her children are part of who she is, and it would be foolish and impossible to hide them away. I am certain that if she did hide them away, we would again be hearing from detractors, this time accusing her of not spending time with her children and keeping them shuddered.

I live in Wasilla (Sarah's home town) and have spent time with the family and I have to say this - this is one of the most well adjusted families I have seen. The kids are involved in sports, after school activities, and are very social. I've seen them running after school to go sledding, walking pets, and playing with family and friends. When asked how a trip went, often you get a quick "OK" and then a change of topic. They move on. Many, many children of those in politics and celebrity have traveled with their parents. Imagine the opportunities these kids have already had. They have met people and seen parts of the country most of us will never get a chance to see. These children are not hidden away. They are out there for us to see, but are supported, loved, and reminded of how blessed they are to have the opportunities they have. I have never seen any of them take it for granted.

And as far as Trig and his shoes - obviously this comment was not written by the mother of a young child. To that commentor I say this: When you invent a way to keep socks on little feet, let the rest of us know, ok?

If you liked this article, please visit my conservative Alaskan blog at Finding Myself In Alaska

Standing with Sarah on Health Care

By Adrienne Ross from www.motivationtruth.com

I received an encouraging email from someone who has been following my writing on a few different websites. She shared with me the link to the video below and said simply, "You are in it." That was all it took, of course, to pique my curiosity!

That was just an added benefit. The video, made by a website called Standing with Sarah, highlights Sarah Palin's stand on the health care reform issue. It combines some of her statements with pictures that speak to her own commitment to the health and well-being of Americans. Included in the video are pictures of Sarah at the Walk for Autism, which she participated in on June 7th in Long Island. I attended that function, as well, as did some of her family members, including her nephew, Karcher, who has autism. You can read about this event and enjoy the pictures I took here.

See, Sarah Palin clearly cares about how we handle health care for our citizens. As a mom with a special needs child, Trig, who has Down Syndrome, and as Karcher's aunt, she knows the importance of this issue. She is personally invested and has rallied the people of America and begged us to do all we can to keep the health of those we love out of the control of a government that does not--and cannot--love our family members the way we do. The wonderful thing you'll see in the video is the concern she has, not only for her own family and children, but a sincere concern for all Americans.

Now that's someone I can listen to about health care.

They Just Don't Get It: A Post by Conservative Girl with a Voice

When are people going to wake up? More specifically, when are liberals going to wake up and realize that it's okay for a woman to have a full-time job while raising children? As I was eating breakfast, looking out at the beautiful, calm lake, I began to ponder what I would write my next blog entry about. I continued to think about this while doing the breakfast dishes. While I was doing the dishes, my mom's dear friend stopped by the cabin and was chatting with my mom when she asked me what I had been up to lately. I told her I was still doing a little tutoring, but was excited about how my life had changed in the last year. I began to tell her how I had gotten the chance to be a guest on Eddie Burke's AK radio show as well as how I gotten involved as the San Diego Regional Organizer for the 2012 Draft Sarah Committee. Now, as soon as I had said this, I knew I was going to get one of two reactions. My mom's friend was either A) going to love Sarah or B) going to detest Sarah. This is because there is something about Sarah that brings out the best or worst in people. As soon as I opened my mouth, I was ready for whatever reaction I would receive. When I saw the expression on her face, as I told her, I immediately knew I was talking to someone in category "B." It wasn't her facial expressions that bothered me, but what she said in her response. Instead of commending me on wanting to get involved in the political process, the first thing out of her mouth was "I can't stand her." When I asked why, I was expecting her to tell me it was because of her politics or something she had said during the campaign like the "paling around with terrorists" comment, but no. Once again, the negative perceptions about Sarah became personal. Her main argument for why she disliked Sarah was because Sarah "paraded that needy child around with her everywhere she went." Not only was this comment disturbing, but the fact that she didn't refer to baby Trig by name, but as that "needy child," sincerely bothered me to the point in which anger arose inside of me. I don't know about you, but "needy" is far from a term I would use to describe little Trig. "Loving," "nurtured," "sweet" and "adorable," are just some of the words I would use to describe this wonderful child. A "needy child" is one who is in need of food, shelter and clothing, and last I checked, Trig is in need of none of those; in fact, he is a happy, healthy, chubby baby as Sarah said not too long ago. Now, you all know good and well liberals would not be describing Trig in this way if he didn't have Down Syndrome or was the child of a democratic politician, or even the child of a male politician for that matter- oh, no. If it had been anyone other than Sarah Palin, people would be praising the individual. Yet, because it is Sarah, the left throw cheapshots and discriminate against both her and her family. Trig is an innocent little baby who, as he grows up, will want to be treated as any other child. Yet, the left see children like Trig as a burden, not the joys that come with life. This is the problem with today's society. Instead of embracing all individuals, people are judged on their outter appearance instead of their hearts and what is on the inside. What is separating a Down Syndrome baby from any other baby? An extra chromosome. To me, that makes them extra special; they are God's children too. Individuals with Down Syndrome are the most loving, kind-hearted people, and I know the mean-hearted liberals out there could learn a thing or two from them. Thank God for Sarah and Todd. They have brought the issue of the importance of understanding, supporting and loving special needs children to the forefront. I have learned so much from them through their love for precious Trig. It is because of people like Todd and Sarah who illustrate what unconditional love is- what it means to love and be loved. Love has no bounds, and they have widened the awareness for supporting special needs children throughout this great country and the world.


The thing that upsets me most is that people continue to bash Sarah without ever taking the time to actually get to know her. They think they know her, but they don't. As I have stated in a previous post ("A True Modern-Day Feminist") , Sarah represents everything liberal women have fought so hard against. Her very existence drives them mad. They are so closed minded that they are unable to see the Sarah we have come to know and love. If only they opened their eyes, the would see what we see. As a young conservative, I have no problem with someone disagreeing with politicians based upon political ideology, but taking personal cheapshots is uncalled for. When liberals bash Sarah's family, they are bashing her as well. Trig was not paraded around anymore than Barack Obama and Joe Biden's children and grandchildren were. During the campaign, Sarah's children did not pose for "People Magazine" or "US Weekly" week after week, not that there was anything wrong with that. It should be up to the parents, not outsiders to decide these decisions. The only reason liberals did not like seeing Sarah and her children together at events and on stage at the Republican National Convention is because it was a reminder to them that she CHOSE life; she CHOSE to carry her sweet baby with Down Syndrome to full-term. Even the women on "The View" could not understand why a woman would do this to her children. Perhaps Elisabeth Hasselbeck put it best when she said Sarah Palin is no different than any other proud parent. As the wife of a professional football player, she said she could relate to Sarah because there were times when her kids would be up at odd hours just so they could see their daddy after a game. You can't take back the time spent with your children, so grab any precious moments you can. It is easy to see that the Palin children are not only loved but nurtured as well. Todd and Sarah have two adult children who know have learned the value of hard work. Track is risking his life to protect his country, and Bristol is a wonderful mother who chose life. In choosing life, she is now helping other young girls by speaking out about the value of abstinence and the hardships that come with being a young mother. She is a great role model for young women and other young mothers to see that they too can complete their education and be successful. She wants to make a life for herself without depending on the goverment. Willow and Piper are two young girls with bright futures ahead of them, and little Trig and Tripp are two little boys who are growing up surrounded by a lot of love. Todd and Sarah have instilled in their children great values, and this is present in the way in which they lead their lives.


Just because Sarah was a governor, did not mean she couldn't fullfill her duties as governor while raising her family. It burns me up when I hear liberals say that she should never have worked after learning that she would be having a child with special needs. So, let me get this straight: They want Sarah to play the role of dutiful housewife just because she has a child with Down Syndrome? What year is this, 1950? I'm sorry but you don't hear the left telling a democratic politician with a special needs child that he/she shouldn't be working? Not only is this a sexist, discriminatory statement, but it is downright disgusting. This is yet another symptom of Palin Derangement Syndrome (PDS). How dare the left treat Sarah or her child as if they were any different than any other individual? This is another problem with today's society. Instead of embracing Sarah as the strong woman she is, and Trig as the beautiful child he is, the left feels the need to dictate how she should and should not parent. I guarantee no one ever questioned Michelle Obama while she was making over $300,000/year working for a Chicage hospital why she wasn't staying at home full-time to be with her children, or asking Joe Biden why he remained Delaware's senator after his first wife died in a car crash when his two sons were so young? Instead, both Michelle and Joe were praised for being able to juggle both duties as parent and employee, which they should be. Why can't Sarah be given the same respect and praise? I know why, and you know why, fellow readers. It is because Sarah has an "R" after her name. Even though she is a maverick, blazes her own trail, and does not walk with the Washington herd, the liberal left's extreme hatred for her makes her a target. The very fact that she is a conservative woman is yet another reason (For more on Sarah and the treatment she receives by women on the liberal left, please read my post "A True Modern-Day Feminist."). In questioning the president and his policies, the left claim she is asking for it. What ever happened to our First Amendment right to question our leaders? It is scary to think what our country could look in three years, let alone what restrictions our leaders may put on our right to speak out and voice our concerns.


I just wish the liberal left would let go of their personal hatred for Sarah and stick to her record as city council member, mayor and governor. It is real disheartening that every time I ask someone what it is that makes them dislike Sarah, it always turns personal, and these loons are praised and cheered by the liberal msm. Yet, when a conservative or someone who disagrees with President Obama is asked why they don't like him and these people give political reasoning or political ideology as a response, they are called racist, angry mobsters (See my post "Sarah is Right, Again"). Sarah is a good, honest woman- a woman I am proud to call a role model. In responding to my mother's friend, I told her:

"Sarah gives me hope that I may hold a political office one day. She worked hard to get to the point in which she is in. As someone who did not go to a fancy ivy league school, she proves that if you work hard, you can accomplish great things. She is a great mother who loves her children and treats them as equals. She and Todd love their son Trig so much so that they chose to give him life when so many babies with special needs are aborted. I commend them for that and forever will hold them in high regard for doing so."


Sarah illustrated her love for her children in her decision to resign. In resigning, she put her family above party; furthermore, she put her love for America and its people above the politics-as-usual approach so many have become accustomed to. Name me another politician who has ever done that? She is living proof that you do not need to hold a public title in order to accomplish great things. This is a woman who KNOWS what is important. Not only is she a loving mother, but a woman with a servant's heart. Sarah has already done great things outside of the governor's office. One of the most important things she has done is helping to shed light on the Healthcare plans the Obama Administration has for America. It was because of her that the "death panel" language was removed from the House version of the bill. When Sarah speaks, people listen. Although people may not agree with her, they take notice. I encourage you all to become a fan of Sarah on her facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/sarahpalin. We live during a time in which you don't know whom to trust because it seems as if no one is listening, but I know and you know whom we can trust: Sarah. She HAS proven that she DOES listen to us and hears us loud and clear; it's about time. We NEED Sarah's voice during these troubling times!


(I'm a Conservative Girl with a Voice! Visit my blog and become a follower-Thanks so much: http://conservativegirlwithavoice.blogspot.com)

"Sarah Palin & Eunice Kennedy Shriver Stand Up for Special Needs"

On Tuesday, August 11, 2009, Eunice Kennedy Shriver passed away. She is not known simply for being the sister of John F. Kennedy and mother of Maria Shriver, wife of Arnold Swartzenegger. She is also known and celebrated as one who demonstrated a deep commitment to our special needs community by helping to found the Special Olympics. How ironic it is that we would lay Mrs. Shriver to rest at such a crucial time in our nation when we are debating health care and the value of human life--a woman who offered opportunity and competition to those with special needs. May her commitment to them speak to us now and challenge us to have the same respect for all life.

I expected Sarah Palin to have a comment about the passing of Mrs. Shriver, and of course, being the class act that she is, she did offer her condolences on her Facebook page:

Our Condolences on the Passing of Eunice Kennedy Shriver
Tuesday at 7:37 pm

On behalf of the Palin family, we are saddened by the passing of Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Her passionate dedication to improving the lives of so many people created new opportunities and hope around the world, including for our precious miracle, Trig.

With sympathy to the Kennedy and Shriver families,

Sarah Palin

In honor of our special needs community, I am reposting three things that I posted in earlier months. The first one is a video of Sarah Palin expressing how grateful she is that her son Trig, who has Down Syndrome, will be able to enjoy sports and competition, thanks to Special Olympics. The second video is a portion of Sarah's speech at the Vanderburgh County Right to Life Banquet where she discusses the range of emotions she encountered upon learning Trig would be born with special needs. In this video she also shares the joy that filled her heart the second he was born. Finally, I have included an article I wrote called, "Sarah and Little Trig Palin Come to my Classroom." In it I share how Trig's story transformed my lesson and opened the door for my students to share their hearts in a special, transparent way. In fact, Trig actually changed my complete outlook and approach to teaching a novel I had taught for many years.

I am so grateful for Eunice Kennedy Shriver for her contribution to our special needs community. And I thank God for Sarah Palin who continues to be a voice of appreciation and respect for all human life. Whether the unborn, children with special needs, or the elderly in need of health care, Sarah Palin understands, as she said on the campaign trail, "I believe the truest measure of any society is how it treats those who are least able to defend and speak for themselves."

Sarah and Little Trig Palin Come to My Classroom

I teach 7th grade English Language Arts, and I had the most amazing experience Tuesday in my classes. We are about to begin a novel, one that I have done with my classes just about each of the 13 years that I've been teaching. The class participated in an introductory activity, followed by an intense discussion. I had never before done this particular activity to start this book, but the most powerful aspect of it was inspired by Sarah Palin and the story of her son Trig, who has Down Syndrome.

It was Trig's story that led me to include the topic of special needs individuals, and their place in the world, in the conversation. Although the subject is relevant to the upcoming novel, had I never learned about Trig, I would have never even considered bringing up the issue of special needs. It would have never even crossed my mind, as it never has in the past. I'm so grateful that she came on the scene with Trig's story on her lips and in her heart because this particular issue broke something open in my classroom--and in me. What Trig's life did for my class was something I will not soon forget. I learned more than my students did Tuesday.

As I simply facilitated the discussion and allowed the kids to express themselves, I listened to students who clearly have an understanding of the sanctity of every single life. They poured out their hearts as they spoke compassionately about what people with special needs contribute to our lives. They lovingly mentioned family members who have physical or developmental challenges whom they "can't even imagine living without." In one class, a student said we need special needs people in the world because they help us. Now there's something you don't hear often. In fact, we usually think about how much we have to help them. But this 7th grader's vision is sharper than most, for he went on to express how much richer they make our lives, how they help us see things differently. I then told them that about 90% of Down Syndrome pregnancies, for example, end in abortion--and silence followed.

My heart was full that day, and I was so proud. With all the talk about abortion, and embryonic stem cell research, and people shooting people up; with all that we've lost as a society in terms of how we view one another, make fun of one another, and dispense so easily of one another; with the sad realization that our so-called progressive attitudes have come at the expense of the innocence of our children, I was privileged to listen to teenagers defend the value of the vulnerable, unapologetically profess the blessing these individuals are, and unashamedly announce the joy they bring to our lives--just the way they are. I think of this, and I am so very glad to do what I do: spend my days with children who seem to know a heck of a lot more than adults about compassion, love, and life.

I thank Sarah Palin for being woman enough not to add to the horrible statistic of Down Syndrome abortions, for trusting God enough to give birth to her promise, and for sharing his story with the world. Sometimes we just don't know what our seemingly small experience can possibly do for the world. But this story--Trig's story--changed this teacher's perspective, her lesson plan, and most of all, her heart.

From www.motivationtruth.com by Adrienne Ross