Countdown to Rally: April 1st is only 3 Days Away

It is Sunday morning in Chicago and the city is under a white cover of snow. Winter is still here!

With a few moments of quiet and peace to reflect upon what may happen over the next few days, my thoughts are focused on a sense of hope and determination.

I have hope that:

• the few Democratic leaders who are still refusing to allow an open debate will come to their senses;
• the stories we share are recognized as human testimony instead of individual cases. There are so many sad stories to share of those affected by the overreaching impact of the CPSIA.
• there will be renewed dialogue and cooperation as we find answers to the questions below:
  • Are these few leaders afraid to hear the truth? Are they afraid they may regain a sense of humanity?
  • Will they miss this unique opportunity to do the right and decent thing?
  • Will they have the courage of their convictions and participate in a true democratic debate?
  • Will they have the strength of character to listen to our collective testimony?
  • Will the White House stand by silently while all this is unfolding?
  • Are President Obama’s eloquent words of a new political leadership real or empty?

I am determined:

• to share the stories of so many that are being unnecessarily hurt by the unintended consequences of the CPSIA.
• to speak up for those who do not make the newspapers headlines, whose personal finances and potential bankruptcies do not attract the “bailout’ money of our government.
• to create a sense of urgency in order to give some relief to all these men and women who are hardworking and committed to their families and communities. Relief for people whose creative and entrepreneurial spirits should not be squashed.
• to educate the public across the country and within our respective industries enough that they denounce the absurdity of this law and the lack of democratic process associated with its implementation.

I pray that those who have the power to solve the situation do not stay away in the comfort of their “ivory towers” but pay attention to our voices and respond to our request for dialogue.

The sun is now shining in Chicago. Spring is on its way. It is time to teach our children an important life lesson.

It is time to plant the seeds of a better future for all.

Etienne