"When the government fears the people, you have democracy.
 When the people fear the government, you have tyranny."
 
I forget who first said that, but the people of Michigan have every reason
to be afraid; terribly afraid.
 
How many of you in MI and elsewhere can now look at your chosen pets,
members of your family, and not be afraid?  Unless you happen to be
fortunate enough to live in one of those states in which someone has gone
out and done your job for you by getting the state policies and/or laws
changed to protect ferrets, you should be not only afraid, but mad as hell
at yourself for allowing your government to put you in fear.  Unless you
make your government accountable for its actions; unless you work to enact
laws limiting its powers you will continue to live in fear.
 
The key words are "your government." This is still a democracy.
 
Do you know who your local representatives are in your state senate and
house?  If not find out.  Once you find out, call to make an appointment to
visit them at their office or home.  Gather up all of the information you
can get your hands on and take it with you.  Tell them what you want and ask
them if they would be willing to sponsor a bill.  Offer technical support
and voter support.  No threats or even hints of threats.  You'll need their
vote when you get the sponsor.  Keep trying until you get a sponsor.  No
luck?  Organize other ferret owners and pet owners.  Write up a petition and
distribute it at pet stores and pet supply stores, grocery stores, where
ever.  Take the petitions back and try again.  Never surrender.
 
When you find a sponsor, your work is really cut out for you.  Don't leave
them high and dry.  You'll have to organize the grassroots support.  You'll
have to write the letters and make sure that committee members have all of
the information that they'll need to vote against Public Health.  You'll
probably have to testify.  You'll have to pack the committee sessions with
supporters.  Or would you rather have animal control walk up to you some day
and demand your pets?
 
It's not easy.  It won't be easy.  Worthwhile things seldom are.  You do
have a choice though.  You can continue to fear the government, or make the
government fear you.
 
     Dick B.
[Posted in FML issue 1964]