
Democrats, Republicans, Independents and Libertarians all have one thing in common. They all attended that Roanoke Tea Party in Elmwood Park on July 4th and most of them brought signs stating their opinions on various matters important to them.
This is the 2nd Tea Party held in Roanoke, the 1st being on tax day, April 15th of this year. The purpose of the Tea Parties is to give everyone a voice, to let all opinions be heard, to make sure that everybody matters.
Over 1,000 people came to enjoy the sunshine, the company and the music as well as to hear speakers from all walks of life. House of Representatives Morgan Griffith said, “Today is not called dependence day. It is not about the money, it is about the right to tax with representation. Government spending is out of control and that brings about dependence, not independence for its citizens. How we spend our money is as valid today as it was on December 16, 1773.”
Jeff Bowles from the Libertarian party talked about Thomas Jefferson and how “the founder’s realized that government was necessary but dangerous so they contained it within the constitution.” Jackie Bledsoe of fairtax.org explained exactly what the Fair Tax is and how it would work in today’s environment of excessive spending and taxes. “It is a revenue neutral plan with a retail sales tax on new goods and services only”, and the country would be able to abolish the Internal Revenue Service altogether.
Bill Cleaveland, running for the 17th House of Delegates seat stated, “Your voices are the pulse of this country. If your voice is quiet, this country will die. I am angry like you and I hope you are angry about the tax situation as it is. Make your voice heard in November.”
Ken Cuccinelli, the Republican nominee for Attorney General, got the crowd fired up when he said; “Conservatives in Northern Virginia should be under the Endangered Species Act since there are so few of us left. We need to take back our constitution and make sure this Cap & Trade bill is not passed. Even Greenpeace is against Cap & Trade and you know how liberal they are.”
After the invited speakers, the microphone was opened up to the public. Any one who chose to speak could have 5 minutes and many in attendance took advantage of the opportunity to be heard. Topics ranged from abortion, freedom, limited government, Cap & Trade, free speech, liberalism, thanking veterans and prayer.
Organizers say they plan to have another Tea Party in Roanoke this fall.
By Carla M. Bream