Week 4: The Death Penalty - Troy Davis Execution

Last week Troy Davis was executed in Georgia. His execution has been very controversial, as his supporters were waiting for the Supreme Court to intervene up until the last moment. Many of Davis' supporters say that there was not enough evidence to link him to the murder of Mac Phail, a police officer. Several of the witnesses have also recanted their testimonies that link Davis to the crime. However, the courts declared that Davis had multiple opportunities to prove his innocence, but could not. Bullet shells found at the scene of the crime could also be linked to bullets used in a previous crime. Please read the article in the link: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/09/22/national/main20109976.shtml

Focus Question: which side are you on? Do you agree with the Death Penalty? Is it necessary? Does the possibility of wrongful execution flaw the entire system?

Week 3: The Mexican Drug War

The Mexican Drug War has been going on for years, but has increasingly involved innocent Civilians. Recently, drug cartels are blamed in the attack on a Monterrey casino that killed over 50 civilians. The casino was doused with flamible liquid and set on fire. Since 2006, almost 40,000 people have been murdered in Mexico. This number includes law enforcement, drug/gang members and innocent bystanders. People are protesting and demanding better security from the government. President Calderon has acknowledged the problem, but claims that the U.S. is partially to blame because they are the biggest consumer of illegal drugs in the world. He claims that if there was not a demand for the drugs, the gangs would not profit from selling it north of the border.

Focus Question: What should be done to help Mexico? Is this a problem only for Mexico to deal with, or does the U.S. need to claim responsibility for this problem as well? BE SPECIFIC in offering suggestions to help...don't just say, "ya, this is a problem, it should be fixed!" Give me something concrete!

Week 2 Moment of Controversy...

This is a picture of the 9/11 Memorial in NYC, where the Trade Towers once were.  In the picture, the Obamas and George W. and Laura Bush walk around the memorial. 

Focus Questions: how have the events of 9/11 shaped your idea of America? What is America's role in the world today? Do you fear future attacks? Can future attacks be prevented? Is terrorism a reality of your generation?

You can respond to one or more of the questions or just state your opinion, or respond to a classmate.

Again, be respectful in your language and tone!

Week 1 Moment of Controversy: Tommie Smith and John Carlos

Focus Question: Do acts such as this help to stop widespread problems such as racism or hate?  Why or why not?  Can you think of other examples of symbolic protests?

Week 1 Moment of Controversy: Tommie Smith and John Carlos

Please respond to this post by Sunday, Sept. 11 at 5pm.  Feel free to post your opinion about the picture or discuss the impact this action had on society.  Remember, be respectful; you will receive zero credit if you are not in compliance.