I found the below letter through the social media posting of a friend and found it one of the most cogent articles on the depth and reach of Mr. Mori Hosseini’s influence I’ve ever read.
That’s probably because there is not much written – or spoken – on the topic.
You see, people who speak out about the long-standing Benevolent Dictatorship in Volusia County are marginalized pretty quickly by the powers that be.
I feel pretty certain this won’t end well for the former members of ERAU student government who had the courage to say publicly what has needed to be said for a very long time.
As some of you know, I often write in quite harsh tones about issues that anger me – specifically when it comes to elected and appointed officials who, in my view, no longer serve the best interests of their constituents.
I have been warned by well-meaning friends that I will most likely face personal repercussions for my course language and pointed criticism – and I suspect they’re right. While I’m not so presumptuous as to assume anyone really cares what I think or write, if someone wants to retaliate because of something I’ve said, my skeletons are pretty much out there and I’m not a hard target to hit.
Most of my ramblings are the result of idle hands – too much time to think and brood over situations I cannot control. When something sets me off, I speak out – not so much to change your mind as to ventilate my own. In my view there is nothing more obscene than public servants who use their high office to benefit their own self-interests and that of a few influential power brokers.
It might have become the “American Way” – but I don’t like it – and the First Amendment grants me (and you) the right to speak our mind, especially on matters of politics, our leadership, and the issues that affect all of us.
Besides, the first defense mechanism of a successful politician or public official is growing some hard bark – people are going to criticize you, right or wrong – and if you’re smart you won’t take the message personally. But you will glean important insight that will give you a feel for what your constituents are feeling and their perceptions about your performance and the issues of the day.
The students of ERAU have something important to say – and they deserve to be heard. In my view, Mr. Hosseini’s involvement in state board appointments and the political process in general is a prime example of how money buys influence, and how, if left unchecked, the private consolidation of political power can have a detrimental impact on organizations, the government, and our democratic process.
Barker's View 