“What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist.” Salman Rushdie’s words still carry a deep message for today’s society. And it seems, with the thanks of this political cartoon, West Orlando News has ignited a conversation striking the heart of these very words.
A political cartoon is a drawing based on an artist’s perception, often using harsh words or kind words with cartoonish features. Political cartoons are mostly biased opinions with a political or social message which are supposed to cause debate. Their goal is to elicit emotions in a community. The world has seen plenty of political cartoons spark controversy, some even cause outrage that shakes foreign policy and world stability.
In this case, there could be many meanings to the cartoon. The controversy is misplaced and unguided when considering the critics of it sound like they simply want censorship as a solution. Even if they are offended, it is a political cartoon – and again, could carry many meanings, different to different people. I personally see it as a reflection of a Taxman, perhaps newly elected Tax Collector Scott Randolph here in Orange County, featured as a “fat cat” constitutional officer while also holding on to a partisan pitbull, who gets a bad rap for attacking. My initial thought was that the pitbull represents the Democratic Party which Scott Randolph is attempting to continue to control despite his new role. Inside political circles, Scott Randolph is well-known as a partisan operative, even controlling several political committees in addition to serving as Chair of the local party. Party elections are being held on December 1.
Susannah Randolph helped coin a self-labeled group of women activists called the“Uterati” after her husband used the word “uterus” on the floor of State House. She and others became upset when taking the cartoon personally. WONO was very open about taking feedback online to gauge responses after the cartoon published. However, taking it personally is the first mistake. They were quick to use words like “sexist” and “misogyny” to describe West Orlando News, not even just the cartoon. Ironically, they even took to the official Orange County Democratic Party Facebook page – partisan resources – to launch their attack. Could that be the partisan pitbull in action?
But what’s missing here is the rabid response immediately calling for what seems to ultimately be censorship of a message they didn’t like. This becomes very hypocritical considering the source. Susannah Randolph is Executive Director of a non-profit organization called Florida Watch Action. In short, it is a non-profit dedicated to attacking Governor Rick Scott. They call out a lot of bad policies; however they also produce products like this:
What message is Susannah Randolph sending here? They put Governor Scott in a wig and drew make-up on his face before posting it online and on social networks asking supporters to spread this message. So was that sexist? Were they calling Rick Scott a drag queen, thus making it anti-LGBT? If not, are there any boundaries to the attacks on elected officials? Then there are other examples like these:
Consider the source of all the drama. They like to dish out the “hardball” but can’t even handle one opinion they don’t like. Then again, some ignorant people simply want attention, just as any good dog would.
**yawn** still obsessed with the Randolphs, I see.
Are you a one-trick pony?
good article Mike!
you bring up a very valid point; namely the hypocrisy of the Uterati.
People have the right to say as they please in just about any manner they please.
On that same note, being offended by a clearly personal attack is every bit as protected.
You and Doug lost today Mike. Just thought I’d remind you of that.
I don’t think anyone ever loses in a democratic election. That is an odd statement from “John” who sounds like a secret member of the hypocritical “Uterati” as mentioned. This column sure opens a lot of eyes on the matter, thank you.
The last cartoon was done by a labor union. I guess you’re anti-labor now too.
Suzanna’s minions seem laughable on their facebook posts and comments here. I think Jose B. is missing the point that the author never says anything about the third photo other than using it to show that Ms Randolph is one to use cartoons and graphics often in her professional life. While not necessarily offensive to us progressives, they clearly would upset some, like the target and his supporters, or so the goal seems. Although that hair and make-up picture is a little disgusting and bad taste, wonder if a child submitted that one, not that it makes it all too much better?
Isn’t it unlawful for employees of 503-C-1 non-profits to actively be involved in partisan political agendas???? Comments please!
There are deeper questions, here. What is Trini Quoroz, Doug Head and Mike Cantone’s real ultimate agenda? Why are they fighting so hard for positions of power? Why do they seek to dissuade everyone who is happy and take away any success the local party has had?
Are they seeking to bring the party down? Do they want to take over? Do they even have a plan other than selfishness?
This is a group to watch, folks, as they dig themselves deeper and deeper into histeria, delusional behaviors, and negativity. They have nothing of value to offer but bitching, complaining, and whining about things they want, but could not care less what the people of Orange County want.
The more you look, the more it becomes clear: They’re mad because nothing is going their way. Like a child throwing a tantrum, dropping to the ground, and crying incessantly.
Sounds like many are over-reacting and directing their personal anger towards the wrong source. Very telling and juvenile graphics for a “non-profit” also which made me rethink this whole issue completely. I find what “still lusting” posted odd as it appears the uterati are the delusional ones throwing tantrums.
The anti-LGBT person here is the one who opposed the Domestic Partnership Registry during the City of Orlando – Mike Cantone. The LGBT community was super pissed off about his comments and remain pissed to this day. Also, I guess Ms. Quiroz doesn’t know the first thing about politics or the law. Perhaps she got her knowledge from Mike? Florida Action Watch is a c4 and non-partisan. Maybe Mike’s zombie makeup got absorbed by his brain when he was launching similar attacks against Daniel Webster.
That anonymous smear makes no sense, especially with Google and the internet to prove “anonymous” wrong on LGBT matters. I was a supporter of Mr. Cantone and still am. In fact, his entire website and online campaign is still active, as anyone could see Mr. Cantone led the push for Equal Benefits Ordinance which Mayor Dyer and others in the community remain silent on. http://www.mikecantone.com/EBOpetition
I recall Mr. Cantone applauded the City for pressuring Orange County to act and was always supportive of the municipal efforts, he just wanted MORE action for equality. Since when is MORE an “anti” anything?
You can also see more of Mike’s long service with our LGBT community on his youtube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phg9gIvF8og&feature=share&list=UU-YtCKCpEfdr-g_EiQsVAQQ
Keep lying to yourselves, you make it a lot easier for the public to see who is insecure and ignorant.
Wait wasn’t it Susanah Randolph that came up with Taliban Dan against Daniel Webster??
I’d listen to Cantone if anyone actually followed the guy. He has no vision, skill or clout. He’s a joke.
How did he do in the Mayors race?