| An article in Time magazine this week. |
[06 Mar 2008|05:22pm] |
Mutant Problem No Longer A Problem? John Oakes
In America today it is impossible to escape the mutant issue. Senator Graydon Creed has promised compulsory mutant registration if he is elected to office. A mutant woman from Illinois may become the first mutant Miss America later this month, sparking controversy about the rules and regulations of the institution and riots and protests in the area of Manhattan known colloquially as Mutant Town are becoming commonplace on the nightly news. In many ways it seems that mutants have permeated the news media as the hot issue of society today.
Mutancy is a relatively new phenomenon. Reports of mutation began to emerge in the early twentieth century, but the population has been growing in size and power since then, sparking spirited debate over their position in society. While there are some mutants who's mutations are rather mundane, like green skin, or being able to walk on water, there are those who possess abilities that could potentially cause significant disruption to society, even in extreme cases terrorism. Not to mention that mutation most commonly manifests during puberty, a very emotionally unstable point of any teenager's life and there have been several reports over the last decade of people being seriously harmed by the manifestation of a child's mutant power. Subsequently views and opinions on this new phenomenon and what should be done about it vary widely, anywhere from complete acceptance to fear and loathing.
A recent poll of the residents of Mutant town indicates their dissatisfaction with the political attitude towards their community. 85% believe that life will become worse for them if Mutant Registration were introduced, and an overwhelming 76% would consider leaving the country if the bill that Creed proposes passes into law.
It's really no surprise then, that the latest census statistics that show a significant rise in immigration to the African country of Genosha.
Genosha is an independent democratic republic situated on an island off the east coast of Africa not far from Madagascar. Once known to Americans only as an ideal tropical holiday destination, it has developed a reputation within the global community for their tolerance of the mutant phenomenon. While other countries place restrictions on mutant migration, the Genoshan government openly encourages mutant refugees to consider relocating to their country. David Moreau, the Genoshan Minister for Immigration and Foreign Affairs said at a conference last month:
"We understand that some people may fear these gifted individuals as the science of the phenomenon is still not completely understood. But here in Genosha we believe that if these individuals are treated with respect and fairness, then they can help contribute to our society in a way not seen anywhere else in the world and subsequently help make Genosha a global leader in the fields of health, education, technology and science."
And he seems to be right.
Statistically, Genosha is an oddity in the region. While the countries of mainland Africa are stricken with issues of poverty, disease, political turmoil and economic recession, Genosha is very well off. Their economy is mainly driven by the tourism industry but the Bank of Genosha, based in the capitol: Hammer Bay, reported a decade-low interest rate last quarter, resulting in an increase in foreign investment in the region. The country has a politically stable democracy, with their general elections scheduled to be held early next year, and their unique geographical position shields them from the worst weather that the Indian Ocean can produce.
Meanwhile, the gang violence and organised crime syndicates that cause so much of the disruption in Mutant Town continue to worry the authorities. Many have called for a formal inquiry into the lax police presence in the area, while others believe that the police are doing all they can with the resources available and that heavier restrictions on the citizens in that area, including a curfew, may be in order.
It's easy to see why the idea of migration to Genosha is so appealing for the mutant community especially in this current climate. East African Air, the flagship airline of Genosha, has just recently announced the addition of a new route flying direct from New York to Hammer Bay twice a week to begin in April. As part of the launch they're offering a significant discount to those who plan to emigrate to the country. It's a risky venture encouraging immigration so publically, one not attempted by a country for many years and certainly not with a community who're considered so dangerous. But the Genoshan government believes strongly that their positive attitude towards the Mutant people will be nothing but a successful venture and there is little that the rest of the world can do but sit back and watch the situation unfold.
|
|