No, We're Not Going Back
If you don't consider "progressive" and "liberal" to be four letter words, think everyone should have equal rights regardless of the color of their skin, gender, sexual orientation, and religion, recognize that paying taxes is patriotism with an actual purpose, don't jump to bomb or shoot as a solution of first resort, and feel everyone's vote should count, you're not alone. It just may seem that way if you're in Tampa the next few days when the Republicans take over the Bay area. They may have a small tent, but they're loud and carry a big chip on their shoulders, so it may not seem that way this week.
Don't let it get you down, there are alternatives for like-minded liberals and progressives in town.
Progress Florida has put together an interactive guide: A Progressive’s Guide to the RNC, which contains events, links and maps to everything on the progressive's to-do list during the convention. Unlike the "members only" mentality of the Republican Party, you don't even have to be a liberal or a progressive to take part in what the guide has to offer.
Free speech. What a concept!
From the guide:
Here is the definitive guide for progressives who want to stand up for the middle class, oppose the Republican Party’s extremist agenda, and get the unscripted, behind the scenes play-by-play. Inclusion in this guide does not necessarily indicate a Progress Florida endorsed event or viewpoint, but we fully support the right of all Americans to exercise their First Amendment right to free speech. Stand up, show up, get involved, share this guide, stay safe, keep it legal, make it loud, and participate!
There are events sponsored by everyone from Rock The Vote to Planned Parenthood to Wonkette. For those who are realistic and science minded, there's even a tracking map to keep tabs on Tropical Storm, and potential Hurricane Isaac, if you're one who realizes that merely being a "hospitality state" makes you immune to disaster (Like Gov. Rick Scott) and that donning a raincoat or poncho is all the protection you need during a hurricane (Like GOP Chair Reince Priebus.)
So bookmark the guide, have fun, and be safe, but keep your eye on the weather.
