Blagojevich and his roots

February 4, 2:45 PMImmigrant Community ExaminerWilfredo Rodriguez-Padilla

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AP Photo/Seth Perlman

    The now ex-governor of Illinois, Rob Blagojevich, often mentioned his humble immigrant roots. His father, Radisa Blagojevich, was a Serbian blue-collar worker that survived a Nazi prison camp during World War II. His mother, Mila Govedarica -also of Serbian descent -, worked at the Chicago Transit Authority and lived in various working class immigrant neighborhoods across city.
    
    Blagojevich's roots are without a doubt humble and a couple of months ago his story of success would have been inspirational. But now, after months of media scrutiny and shady allegations whenever he mentions his personal history it is to save his own skin or at least it seems that way.

    During his impeachment defense speech on January 30th in front of the Illinois State Senate he said:

    "I confess […] that I fight maybe too much but I ask you to remember it ain’t about me […] Charge it to my heart, charge it to a desire to help families I came from and life stories I’ve heard along the way in my life and as governor. And when you get the experience to be governor and you have a chance to help families like that and you can do it. It’s gratifying.”

    Did the governor use his roots to back his actions? It seems so to me. Even with an expletive-laden tape in which he eloquently outlines the importance of president Barack Obama’s senate seat, the man is willing to put everything on the line. He is constructing an image of himself as a modern day Robin Hood, but his critics aren't falling for the bait; they see him as the personification of government corruption.

    During an interview with the ex-governor Glenn Beck said: “… you are either the most arrogant person I have ever met, or you’re telling the truth.” Despite my differences with Mr. Beck, I think the comment fits the situation.
    
    The infamous scandal that revolved around Rod Blagojevich tells two terrifying parables aimed at the immigrant community in the US. If innocent of any criminal action his supporters will tell a story of struggle against an unjust system. If guilty, his critics will add his tale to the negative narrative some have devised regarding immigrant leaders. Unfortunately, by dragging his roots to the debate Mr. Blagojevich has added another unfortunate chapter in the history of immigrants in the US, no matter the outcome.