We staunch conservatives have always admired the great Edmund Burke. Burke, the man who stood for chivalry in the age of mass democracy. Burke, one of the first to recognize the totalitarian, murderous end point to which the logic of the French Revolution inevitably led. Burke, who sympathized with the American Revolutionaries as defenders of their rights as Englishmen.
But then let’s not forget Burke, who advocated for equal pay for women in the workplace. Burke, who sought to crush the racist elements in American society that stood in the way of African-American entrepreneurship. Burke, who dreamed that one day the Republican Party might reach out to Hispanics as a reliable voting base!
What? You don’t recognize that Edmund Burke? Well, that just means you haven’t yet visited the webpage of The Edmund Burke Institute for American Renewal (“A New Generation of Conservative Thought”). Here are some snippets to help you bring yourself up to date with what you should believe as a reactionary:
New Feminism
This program is designed to show how conservative principles affirm the fundamental rights, values and liberties of women; there is no contradiction between conservatism and feminism. We want to help women achieve equality in the workplace, play a greater role in the nation’s political life, and remove any remaining barriers hindering their potential. We also envision a distinct role for women in public affairs that fulfils their feminine nature. […]
African Americans and Traditional Values
We seek to place the issues dear to African Americans at the forefront of political debate. This program will find solutions that are based on empowerment, independence and entrepreneurship. We celebrate the history and culture of African Americans and affirm their contributions to American society. Furthermore, the program recognizes that there are still racist elements in American society that must be crushed. Hence, we will be vigilant in defending African Americans from injustice and inequality. […]
Hispanics and the Conservative Movement
We will integrate Hispanics within the conservative movement. There are millions of diligent and talented Hispanics in America who have a Christian heritage, hold dear to traditions which exalt the family and the community, and who are determined to improve their economic standing. These traits render them natural allies of conservatives. Our program will highlight the specific concerns of Hispanics regarding immigration, achieving greater social mobility and entrance into the highest echelons of power. Moreover, Hispanics will finally feel welcome in a movement that empowers them to achieve their goals while also celebrates their cultural contributions to American society.
If this is the Right, then what need have we for a Left?
Posted by Richard Spencer on October 19, 2009