Clarification
Jan Cohen
I do not, and will not align myself with any group (or individual) which
(who) conveys a message in a confrontational manner. There is much effective
work going on behind the scenes at many state capitals, and those involved
are to be applauded. There is also crucial work now on-going at the federal
level, much of which has the potential to impact family issues for years to
come and timing *as of this moment,* is of the utmost importance. It is
therefore requested that due consideration be given anything associated with
the issue of family in a non-confrontational manner, objectively, and in a
manner that would be acceptable to those in power to propose/enact
legislation.
If you wish to be perceived (and this is not necessarilly addressed to
members of any one mailing list) as angry and irrational, than please do so
by not claiming to represent all fathers. Congress doesn't want to hear
such. They do want to hear the term "family" used, and will react
accordingly to those wishing to and in the position to convey information
associated therewith, *which benefits all citizens of this country.*
Jan F. Cohen
Coparent Outreach Program Coordinator
The Fathers' Rights and Equalities Exchange
In support thereof, and both the American Fathers' Coalition and the American
Fathers' Alliance.
Jan Cohen
As such, I see nothing wrong with your manifest. It is not so much your
manifest I am dissatisfied with, but moreso the approach you've used for a
great deal of time in explaining your stance. As a bit more clarification, I
must state that I adhere to family in the strictest sense of the word: I am
neither at war with the feminists, nor do I support "father custody: sole
exception." Furthermore, I am not fond of subversive tactics, even if some
on the "other side" are claimed to use them regularly. I will not be party
to such, and am very comfortable with the stance I have come to assume.
I discuss family related issues in a face-to-face context on a daily basis,
with both divorcing mothers and fathers. One thing we (as parties to my
local conversations) do understand is that short of its abuse, "family" has
absolutely nothing to do with gender-related issues. Children know nothing
of feminism, nor patriarchy. They do know of the world in terms of "mommy
and daddy." And the dissection thereof by the various male/female
groups/individuals is but a fraction of what is causing the most harm.
You want to fix "fatherhood..." fix "family" first.
I wish you luck with your "Manifesto..." I would recommend you take a step
back though, if but for a moment, and evaluate the approach you have been
using. I would also caution you against using any names/contacts you may
have who have not openly signed your pact, in your further dealings with the
internet world. I would also request that you not include my email address
in any more of your "disseminations."
This will be my last post on the subject, as time is valuable to me (just as
it is to everyone else) and I have my own concerns I wish to deal with.
Respectfully,
Jan Cohen