Palms, Protests and Politics

Linda Burton posting from Phoenix, Arizona — Palm trees line Central Avenue. Keep going south to downtown, Washington Street, turn right, go to 17th, park free for two hours, walk across the street to the State Capitol Museum. It’s not overly fancy but it’s pretty; all the materials to build it came from nearby when it was constructed back in 1900.

They’ve added new buildings since; the governor and secretary of state have offices adjoining; the Senate and House chambers are now on either side of the copper-domed original.  It’s a peaceful sight, green lawns punctuated with native plants in graveled beds; an aging cactus propped in place.Today a line formed by a festive tent; corn dogs and fresh-squeezed lemonade served to legislators and invited capitol staff; hosted by the Arizona Optometry Association; it was Optometry Day at the Capitol. The AOA is pushing for passage of SB1224 which would require insurance provider panels to include optometrists if they provide medical eye services.

In other ways of speaking up, the TV evening news showed students sitting in the street in front of Trevor Browne High School; parents and friends watched nearby as police lined the curb.  The group chanted “Undocumented and unafraid,” protesting the immigration policies of Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio. “We’re tired of living in the shadows,” said a young woman who has been in the United States since she was a year old. “I know no other country. We’ll go to jail if that’s what it takes.” Six students were arrested and are expected to be charged with disorderly conduct and obstructing a thoroughfare. 

Also reported, former Senator Russell Pearce has joined the race for the state Senate seat in the new Legislative District 25. Pearce was the first legislator in state history to be recalled when voters ousted him in November, losing to challenger Jerry Lewis in Mesa’s District 18. Pearce came under fire for his views on illegal immigration. He was author of the state’s controversial immigration enforcement bill.