Willful blindness is a term used in law to describe a situation in which a person seeks to avoid civil or criminal liability for a wrongful act by intentionally keeping himself or herself unaware of facts that would render him or her liable. Individuals may be willfully blind for a number of reasons including - the individual has received money to look the other way, or the individual is a silent partner in illegal activities and doesn't want exposure.
"The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything" - Albert Einstein. "Those who watch without doing anything" may often be scared to speak up, but are not willfully blind. Prior to WWII, there were a number of people who did not speak up as the Nazis carted their friends off to concentration camps. They were afraid to speak out against the barbaric practice, as doing so may have meant certain death or internment. Martin Niemoller, who spent seven years in a Nazi concentration camp, penned a poem "And there was no one left" in regret of not speaking out.
While not nearly as serious nor life-threatening, the situation with the alleged racketeering and embezzlement involving Epic Blended and Virtual Charter Schools still may incur willful blindness on the part of some individuals.
Satire may be described as the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues. Satirical musings are always based on fact though, and the humor/ridicule is often utilized as a way to keep from crying. A satirical view of the conversation that may have taken place between Epic officials and those purchased individuals is needed to prevent depression. First, the facts: The Tulsa World reported that several Oklahoma elected officials willfully accepted more than $200,000 in campaign donations from Epic officials this past year. Among those willfully accepting taxpayer dollars were the State Superintendent, Joy Hofmeister (more than $50,000) and the Governor, Kevin Stitt (more than $10,000). Several others, including the Attorney General, an Oklahoma County District judge, and Oklahoma State Lawmakers, willfully accepted thousands of dollars from Epic officials. In the opinion of many Oklahomans - these tax dollars were paid to the recipients to be willfully blind of Epic's actions. It is important to note at this point that Ben Harris (Epic co-owner) stated to a small school board member "I'm in pretty good with Joy" as he offered a rescue for the small school. It is also notable that both Harris and David Chaney (Epic co-owner) may be seen in a photo with Kevin Stitt, looking like the three musketeers. It's sometimes sickening what money can buy. Noticeably absent from the Epic payroll is the State Auditor and Inspector, Cindy Byrd, and the Oklahoma County District Attorney, David Prater.
The setting for the conversation that could have taken place between Epic officials and those accepting campaign contributions is the Epic war room (probably the basement of the Epic corporate office building) -
Harris (co-owner of Epic, roll call) - Joy Hofmeister! (replies "here"), Governor Stitt! (replies "Sir, yes sir!), Judge Dred! (replies "present"), Cindy Byrd! (silence), David Prater! (silence)...
Harris (addressing David Chaney, co-owner of Epic) - Where are Byrd and Prater?
Chaney - We did not pay those two to be here.
Harris - Why not?
Chaney - We offered, but neither would accept tax dollars.
Harris - Everyone has a price... Did we not offer enough?
Chaney - I guess not, so we haven't tied up all the loose ends.
Hofmeister - Benji, I would appreciate you not saying "I'm in pretty good with Joy", the next time you're trying to takeover a small traditional public school.
Stitt (to Ben Harris) - How come I only got $10,000 and Joy got $50,000?
Harris (in exasperation) - Because you haven't earned it yet..
Stitt - I did say "I don't think your state funding needs to be changed".
Harris - I know.. That may get you a raise, but not $50,000.
Stitt - How about if I get you some funding from the Indian Casinos? Will that be worth the big bucks, like Joy?
Harris - We'll see...
Hofmeister - Speaking of raises.. I deserve more "willfully blind" money. It's getting harder and harder to keep pleading ignorance... and $50,000 is not enough to be "in good with Joy".. Maybe $100,000, and I'll consider it.
Chaney - Just keep working hard Governor, and soon you'll be able to afford a home in Cancun.. like me.
Of course this dialogue is fictitious but certainly could have taken place, as the facts are the facts... To follow the money, click here..
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