O Rahm, O Rahm Emmanuel

[Blue Owl]

O Rahm, O Rahm Emmanuel,
We want health care like Israel.

We asked for single payer here,
But corporations have your ear.

Rejoice, Rejoice, Emmanuel,
Big Pharma will have a record year.

[laughingliberal]

1. heh. very creative nt

[Hannah Bell]

2. +1. But "O Come, O Come Emanuel" is a gorgeous song which shouldn't

let Rahm near it.

[Donnachaidh]

3. Will this administration wear it's corporate logos in public?

So we can at least know who they are beholden to?

[derby378]

4. "I'm Secretary of State - brought to you by Carl's Jr."

:rofl:

[rcrush]

65. Why do you keep saying that?!

Cause its a really good way to make money! Duh! If you were so smart why dont you know that?!

[yodermon]

5. I just sang that whole thing out loud

i'm embarrassed to admit! nice job.

[TexasObserver]

6. Recommend for originality points.

[begin_within]

7. Awesome

Just 2 hours ago I got the lyrics to "O Come, O Come Emmanuel" with the intention of doing the same thing but now I don't have to - yours is perfect.

[progressoid]

8. k/r

[Laelth]

9. Nice.

Kill the bill.

Forcing people to buy insurance is no more the answer to a failed health care system than forcing people to buy houses is the solution to homelessness.

:dem:

-Laelth

[leftynyc]

10. I can't believe people are still

blaming Rahm for this. Blame the President for not fighting harder, blame the senators from red states that have no courage - you know, the people who are actually putting pen to paper on this bill. Blaming the COS is nothing but lazy bullshit.

[Behind the Aegis]

11. And throw in Israel because, you know, he's a Jew.

:eyes:

If this were about Cao on FR and they were saying something similar about his being from Vietnam, I am suer we would hear how racist it was. Double standards in bigotry.

[Sebastian Doyle]

13. I don't see any bigotry here

First, it fits the lyric of the Christmas carol being parodied.

Second, Israel DOES have a real health care system, so that's to their credit, and certainly not bigoted to say so.

Third, Rahm lived in Israel for a while, so he certainly knows this to be the case.

[Behind the Aegis]

19. Of course you don't.

Many countries have real health care systems, including Canada. It is not bigoted to say so.

[Sebastian Doyle]

24. True enough.

But what Christmas carol has the word "Canada" in it?

I see you bringing up "dual loyalty" in another response. I'm not sure what that has to do with the song parody, but since you brought it up, I actually DO have a problem with Rahm Emanuel's "dual loyalties".

Not to Israel, but to corporate America. Which is also true of Baucus, Nelson, Landrieu, and yeah, Liberdouche too. And anybody else standing in the way of REAL reform

[Behind the Aegis]

28. Please see post #27.

[Blue Owl]

22. Sebastian is hip to the parody

No bigotry implied or intended -- just spoofing the ancient yuletide Carol...

[Behind the Aegis]

29. Seems I was off-mark here...please see post #27.

[libertypirate]

14. I don't give a

shit about what belief system he wants to pretend is real on his own free time.

That's stupid rude of you to try that shit.

Rahm has an agenda already. I am sure the presidents plan is exactly what Chief of Staff said was capable of doing.

[Behind the Aegis]

20. It's stupid rude IGNORANCE for you to ignore history..

So let's educate you!

"A classic example of political dual loyalty is a person who is a dual citizen or who is an immigrant living in one country, although the term is sometimes used in connection with people that have religious, cultural or political ties to a political interest other than the country of their primary residence. As opposed to ethical dual loyalty, which is often a self-described situation, political dual loyalty typically appears as an attack or a pejorative accusation designed to target and discredit a particular person or group, and to call into question the loyalty of that group to the country where they reside. As such, the accusation of "dual loyalty" is often used or co-opted by racist or xenophobic groups within a country, regardless of the original intent of the accusation." Dual Loyalty

[leftynyc]

16. I was waiting to see

nasty, over the top threads about Ben Nelson - who obviously thinks women are nothing but incubators but didn't see anything comparable to what I witnessed about Lieberman. I had to wonder why that was.

It's nice to see you Aegis.

[Behind the Aegis]

30. Good to see you as well, please see post #27.

[Mithreal]

25. sigh. Israel is in the original song. Break yourself.

O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

If only average Americans could afford as powerful a lobby as AIPAC maybe we wouldn't be jealous of Israel not to mention foreign governments shouldn't own our politicians. Now there is some flamebait for ya.

[Ignis]

26. Shh, facts aren't relevant here. (nt)

[Behind the Aegis]

31. check out post #27.

[Behind the Aegis]

27. I need to correct some ignorance in this thread.

In the past few weeks, there have been a flurry of threads which have had anti-Semitic under/overtones in regards to Lieberman and the HCR bill. It is not uncommon at this site for the old canard of "dual loyalties" when it comes to Jews to be used. The vast majority of threads don't need to resort to this type of bigotry, but now and again, there are more than a handful who show their true colors and even more who refuse to show theirs and simply "recommend" sans comment on anti-Semitic threads. There seems to be this myth among some here that liberals/progressives/what-have-you here cannot be racists, homophobes, bigots, and Jew-hating scum. Sorry, but right-wingers and conservatives aren't the only ones who suffer from the malady of bigotry. For these reasons, I will view certain posts with a very critical eye.

This thread is a parody of Christmas carol. I mistakenly thought it was a parody of "O Christmas Tree." This lead me to see the inclusion of Israel as a slight against Emmanuel because of his religion, a basic "he is more loyal to Israel than the US" charge found sprinkled throughout this site and other progressive/liberal sites. It seems, however, this was a parody of a Christmas carol called "O Come O Come Emmanuel!" I am Jewish and have Christian friends and relatives, yet, all of this, and in despite of being raised in a Christian-centric nation, I, in 40 years of life, have never heard this carol or don't recall it ever being sung in my presence (I am looking it up on you-tube tomorrow to hear it). However, the aforementioned doesn't change the fact the parody was of a carol which has the elements utilized in the OP. It is unfortunate things are the way they are today in regards to anti-Semitism, but it doesn't change the fact this particular thread was not mired in anti-Semitism; therefore, I apologize to:

1) the OP, Blue Owl for implying s/he was utilizing a parody to insert anti-Semitism to a bad situation (HCR bill)...
2) to leftynyc for distracting from her comment, for which I agree; place the real blame where it is due...
and 3) to Sebastian Doyle for implying he doesn't know what anti-Semitism is based on this post.

I will not apologize to Mithreal, but I will give him a "shout-out" for the inclusion of the original carol (though, I did look it up based on something Sebastian Doyle said in response to my post to him) but for his "flamebait" example, "If only average Americans could afford as powerful a lobby as AIPAC maybe we wouldn't be jealous of Israel not to mention foreign governments shouldn't own our politicians.", which IS something one could find on this site and is an example of something I would expect to see in regards to Jewish persons, politicians or not. While I can suspect some who recommended this thread may have had reasons other than that of the OP, I cannot prove it. It also shows how a misunderstanding can take place because their is an expectation that minorities will be familiar with majority traditions.

This subthread is an example of ignorance. Unfortunately, it was ignorance on my part. I sincerely apologize to Blue Owl for this distraction and inaccurate accusation your post was anti-Semitic.

[Mithreal]

32. Here's the problem, Israel is not the Jewish people to me, it is a country

and I can criticize its influence on my country.

[Behind the Aegis]

35. That isn't a problem, the problem is thinking/believing all Jews place Israel 1st.

Surely you see that as a problem.

[Mithreal]

36. Yes, but I honestly didn't know that was a significant problem.

I believe most folks on DU if asked would tell you that not all Israeli citizens support their government's every action and in that way are like everyone else.

I rarely mention Israel, but can guarantee when I do, it means the government and not the people.

[Behind the Aegis]

37. Significant? No. Common? YES!

There have been a number of posts about "Jew" Lieberman and his loyalty to Israel above the US; same for Rahm, though not as numerous, oddly enough.

It seems you may be unaware of anti-Semitism being disguised as criticism of Israel. This includes anti-Semitism directed against Jewish politicians and Jewish posters; well, except the "good" Jews (i.e. the ones who breathe fire at Israel and dismiss anti-Semitism because they know it because they are Jews or know a Jew).

[Mithreal]

38. Ok, I am curious, have a link to a DU post that you would consider a prime example?

I honestly have not seen anything that explicit but it is a big site.

There was an argument recently, only saw it twice, that Lieberman was trying to pressure Obama about Israeli settlements and his stance on Iran as some sort of exchange for his acquiescence on HCR, not ops, just comments. I do recall that someone objected rather passionately that Israel was brought into any such discussion and considering there is no evidence(?) the objection is persuasive.

What I don't get is the sometimes hair-trigger that some have to declare anti-semitism. It's alright, you don't have to defend that, it is just an observation and I don't think there is any way to answer that. And I absolutely don't want to argue about it, I am especially sensitive to different things than others and can accept our differences even while I challenge ideas and opinions.

[Behind the Aegis]

41. Nuance

"What I don't get is the sometimes hair-trigger that some have to declare anti-semitism."

What I don't get is the hair-trigger response it isn't an issue or isn't true without even seeing it. You said yourself, it is a big site. You say you have seen, twice, about a deal between Obama and Lieberman in regards to Israel and HRC. Did you ever see anything that resembled truth or facts such a thing took place?

I can give you plenty of examples of anti-Semitism from this site, but most are deleted posts, so it will have to be on my word it was what was written. I am well aware what most posters, perhaps even like you, think of that kind of proof.

If you think Israel owns our politicians then you are ignorant, stupid, deluded, and/or bigoted. There are posters who think just that and they fall in those categories.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x7234578
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x7225857
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x7228247
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x7228879
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=433&topic_id=56541&mesg_id=56562

[Mithreal]

48. You call me "ignorant, stupid, deluded, and/or bigoted"?

Based upon your ignoring the context of my statements, weak arguments, knee jerk reactions and ability to misinterpret, you are going to continue to see anti-semitism where you want.

The best I can do is be on the lookout for it in real life and on DU. believe it or not I have challenged people on anti-semitism in real life and still will but you have done nothing to persuade me one way or the other. If some day I realize I am wrong about how you represented yourself and you are much wiser than I am and can see the slights when others are not aware or even intended them then know, you have an apology from me. I think you are doing a cause, anti-hate and understanding, a slight disservice. I say this based upon these exchanges and realize they may not be representative but I trust my instincts just as you seem to as well.

This will fall on deaf ears. I have no wish to continue this discussion. Good day to you.

[Behind the Aegis]

50. Based on your remarks, you will fail to see anti-Semitism right in front of your face.

My ears may be deaf to you, but you are blind. The only thing more annoying is your arrogance.

"You call me "ignorant, stupid, deluded, and/or bigoted"?"

Did I? I seem to have included a caveat. So, if the answer is "yes", then you are indeed one or a combo of the things I stated. If it is "no," then it doesn't apply to you.

[Mithreal]

54. I am weary of your nonsense. If I am blind you are hallucinating.

And right back at ya with the arrogance.

I have no mixed loyalties as it seems you do.

Let it go.

[Behind the Aegis]

55. And there it is.

[Behind the Aegis]

52. Because you need to see this....

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=389&topic_id=7308639&mesg_id=7309872

Explain how that comment has anything to do with being Republican, Jindal, or Louisiana?

[Mithreal]

53. That person seems like a troll and is not representative

And that is not anti-semitic, but may be someone who knows you by your comments and does not like YOU.

[Behind the Aegis]

56. Excuses, excuses, excuses.

[Mithreal]

57. For practical purposes I am going to assume you are an AIPAC rep from now on

Not saying you are, but really, what is the difference.

[Behind the Aegis]

58. LOL! The ole' "it's a shill"...why not just go for the full monty?

I will assume you are uneducated in regards to anti-Semitism and have the same knowledge level about Jews as Mel Gibson.

Not saying you do, but really, what is the difference.

[Mithreal]

59. Figured it was my turn to go hyperbolic. Think you are the only one?

Yeah, you probably have heard the ole' shill accusation a lot. Figures.

I hope you are getting paid. You are pro class, I'll give you that.

I feel strongly that I am feeding whatever problems you choose to consume you, so go ahead and do that thing you do.

[leftynyc]

39. Always knew you were a real mensch

Apology was not necessary but will accept with heartfelt hopes that you have a happy and healthy new year.

[Behind the Aegis]

42. Thank you! What a nice thing to hear.

I am not all that popular, despite being a liberal and actually, a progressive. I have committed the sin of not hating Israel.

You have a great new year, as well. May we all get to be healthy, G-d knows this new bill will not help us, even if it is a "first step."

[Mithreal]

49. Over-the-top, "committed the sin of not hating Israel"

[Behind the Aegis]

51. Hyperbole, but nor far from the truth.

Perhaps it would have been better to say "I don't routinely condemn Israel on most acts while ignoring the acts of others and demanding Israel be held to an impossible standard to which other countries are not expected to uphold," but that just seemed too wordy.

[1monster]

63. Here are a few versions. It is a really beautiful piece of music. Enjoy.

Enya's version (somewhat different from the traditonal, but beautiful): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPHh3nMMu-I&feature=fvw

Boyz II Men version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZqqYMq9iis

In Latin: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRi1GDoaQu4&feature=related

[Hekate]

33. Aegis, I have to break it to you that it's a parody on a Christmas hymn...

Sung in a minor key, dates to the 9th century CE, really rather lovely, and having to do with the prophecies foretelling the Messiah. It's on a Joan Baez album and many others.

"Oh come oh come Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
Rejoice! rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel."

Sometimes a parody is just a parody.

Hekate

[Behind the Aegis]

34. Read #27

[Hekate]

43. Aegis, you are a big person to make such a gracious apology. As for me, I wasn't really aware of...

... the flurry of posts you mentioned recently. Or rather, there have been so very many nasty posts that I've been alternately refusing to read them or just plain putting people on Ignore for being vile.

This is for you, kid :hug:

As to the song, it was probably on a vinyl album of carols by Robert Shaw Chorale that my parents had from the time I was very young, so we're talking like 55 years ago. That was a fine version. Then Joan Baez sang it solo a cappella on her album Noel. According to what I read online tonight it's a favorite Advent hymn in Lutheran churches and such, but I basically know it from my family's album as we were not churchgoers. As I said, it's in a minor key, which always made it lovely to me.

Dang, it's 3 am already, and I was going to try for some sleep tonight. Tomorrow my daughter is due to have her second baby, a daughter, by C-section and I want to be waiting there.

A very happy new year to you.

Hekate

[Behind the Aegis]

44. Thank you. I have much love for your screen name.

I can't believe I haven't heard this song, but there are so many. Now, you tell me Joan Baez sang this and I still don't know it. I guess I know which version to look for on youtube; I love me some Joan.

I hope your daughter and granddaughter have Artemis as a mid-wife and fantastic doctors.

Have a wonderful new year and enjoy the blessings of your new granddaughter and may she have your gift.

:hug:

[Behind the Aegis]

45. Double post.

damn lying computer! Said post didn't go though!

[libertypirate]

12. Wake up and smell the DLC in the room!

Just because these people call themselves democrats doesn't mean they are not stubborn stupid conservatives.

[Hell Hath No Fury]

17. Rahm was in on the ground floor --

of the corporatization of the Democratic Party -- he, perhaps more than anyone else, decided Dems needed to feed at the same trough as the GOP and worked his ass off to make it happen. He also went out of his way to create a Congress full of Blue Dogs when he was head of the DSCC.

What happened to the Health "Care" bill is a direct result of Rahm's good work for all these years.

[leftynyc]

40. I see it much differently that you do

Where you see corporate Dems, I see Dems that are the only ones that could win in these specific districts. It's a fantasy some have that if a conservative Dem can win, so can a liberal one. Simply not true. Maybe you'd rather have a pub in those seats (I can sorta see the sense of that in that you know where the arrows are coming from) but I see Rahm being practical and knowing just who can win a district.

My beef is that with all the viterol thrown at Rahm, the real culprits are being protected. First, the President who simply did not fight for what progressives wanted. Having to be bribed (Lincoln, Baccus, Nelson, Lieberman) to do the right thing makes my blood boil.

[Mimosa]

47. Exactly right, Hell Hath No Fury!

"What happened to the Health "Care" bill is a direct result of Rahm's good work for all these years."

Sickening, isn't it?

[Greyhound]

64. Former.Investment. Banker. n/t

[Individualist]

15. Excellent!

[Hell Hath No Fury]

18. My holiday gift to Rahm --

All that corporate dick smoking he does must be really hard his the breath. He might want to share a few with O after the Health "Care" bill passes.

[Nikki Stone1]

66. Perfect

:)

[tularetom]

21. Good work! You'll never guess what was playing on my iPod as I clicked on this thread

OK, it was "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer". :shrug: But it's still very creative!!

[Warren DeMontague]

23. Edit. Delete.

Question answered upthread.

[Nikki Stone1]

67. .

.

[TorchTheWitch]

46. why is it that so many people here think Rahm is the president?

Rahm gets his marching orders from Obama. Looks like a hell of a lot of people here would rather shoot the messanger than acknowledge that simple fact.

[Nikki Stone1]

60. I LIKE this! We can all sing along!

:kick:

[Nikki Stone1]

61. Damn you, this song won't leave my head!

:grr:

[RainDog]

62. here's my xmas card/carol