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Syndicated Articles From Local Imc's for January 2007
February 2007 >> << December 2006
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Jan 01 2007
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PDX Single Parents Housing Collective |
Weekly meetings and online discussion and resources for building sustainable community around single parents and young children
Inviting space for the elements of a sustainable society to cohere.
I chose the name "Freefamilies" to remind us all of the root and goal, freedom, available to us. So now I have a little daughter, for one. And I am NOT afraid to invent new ways for us to live on this magnificent planet, with so many other beautiful and powerful beings. As we take action outside of prescribed, consumerist, and misinformed modalities we become "social entrepreneurs."
Weekly meetings have been at the Red&Black cafe on Saturdays at 11am. Sometimes nobody shows, and sometimes we coordinate an outdoor meeting place or event, so please call or email first to make sure. A future space at Liberty Hall is much desired.
Please feel free to explore and post your thoughts on our new amateur website:
http://www.freefamilies.org/wb
Inviting space for the elements of a sustainable society to cohere.
I chose the name "Freefamilies" to remind us all of the root and goal, freedom, available to us. So now I have a little daughter, for one. And I am NOT afraid to invent new ways for us to live on this magnificent planet, with so many other beautiful and powerful beings. As we take action outside of prescribed, consumerist, and misinformed modalities we become "social entrepreneurs."
Weekly meetings have been at the Red&Black cafe on Saturdays at 11am. Sometimes nobody shows, and sometimes we coordinate an outdoor meeting place or event, so please call or email first to make sure. A future space at Liberty Hall is much desired.
Please feel free to explore and post your thoughts on our new amateur website:
http://www.freefamilies.org/wb
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Jan 01 2007
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Student-run infoshop opens |
Earlier this month, a student-run non-profit infoshop celebrated its grand opening at The Evergreen State College (TESC) in Olympia, Washington. Using the guise of a state funded student group, volunteers of The Evergreen Infoshoppe were allotted over $4,000 to purchase radical books, zines, and videos for their lending library and resource center.
After only a few weeks of planning, the Infoshoppe now hosts an ever-growing collection in a permanent, centrally located and nearly autonomous location. The opening party was just one event in a string of successes for the Infoshoppe. The 40+ attendees at the opening were able to browse and checkout zines and books from the shoppe's collection while listening to music and partaking in a zine making workshop. The Evergreen Infoshoppe has also received generous donations from such distros as Microcosm Publishing and Eberhardt Press
Plans for the coming quarters include maintaining free zine making supplies and photocopies, stencil and wheat pasting materials, wall space for student art and a community calendar, as well as hosting guest speakers and artists. The success of The Evergreen Infoshoppe sets a strong example for "radical" students wishing to enlighten and inform their peers. Likely, something similar can be formed at any college or university that funds student groups. Still settling in and creating a presence on campus, The Evergreen Infoshoppe is glad to accept any and all donations, misprints, overstock, damaged goods, posters, etc. to add to its budding collection.
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Jan 01 2007
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2006: a year in review from the Houston Indymedia Center |
Houston Indymedia had a busy year in 2006, providing coverage to social movements taking place in Houston, as well as regional and international coverage. In addition to the website, which produced 122 central column features, and hundreds or articles on the open publishing newswire, Houston Indymedia took part in a number of other projects.... http://houston.indymedia.org/archives/archive_by_id.php?id=775&category_id=1 | see highlighted features from 2006
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Jan 01 2007
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International News From 2006 |
2006 was marked by increased opposition to US imperialism, as well as increased divisions and violence. Racist cartoons in Europe sparked protest across the Middle East. The US occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq lead to increased levels of violence in both countries. Violence increased in the West Bank and Gaza and Israel killed over a thousand people in bombing raids on neighboring Lebanon. In the Americas, left-leaning leaders won many elections. In Mexico charges that the PAN stole the national elections lead to mass protests. A teachers strike in Oaxaca was attacked by police and protesters took over the city in response. Among those killed in the crackdown was an Indymedia videographer. Elsewhere, an uprising in Nepal almost overthrew the king, genocide in Darfur continued and there was increased violence in Sri Lanka and the Phillipines.
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Jan 02 2007
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PHOTOS: Miami's King Mango Silver 25th Strut - “Still Crazy After All These Years” |
The King Mango Strut began 25 years ago as a rejected group (the Merry Mango Marching Band) of the King Orange Bowl Parade. It bills itself as the “Weirdest Parade in the Universe” and is praised by the media as "the satirical parade that always captures the spirit of the community, where news and satire collide on the streets of Coconut Grove."
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Jan 02 2007
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Indybay Roundup: Saddam Hussein Executed |
Updated Coverage: On December 30th, 2006, former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein was executed by hanging just hours after the Americans handed him over to the Iraqi authorities. In video footage of the execution, apparently captured on a mobile phone, the executioners are heard to taunting Sadam and chanting "Moqtada, Moqtada, Moqtada" and "Long live Sadr". Many Muslim leaders, including the government of Saudi Arabia, criticised Iraq's Shi'ite leaders for executing former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein during the Eid al-Adha religious feast.... Human Rights Watch also came out against the execution stating that the execution "following a deeply flawed trial for crimes against humanity marks a significant step away from respect for human rights and the rule of law in Iraq." Read full report with links >>
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Jan 02 2007
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Impeachment Movement Heats Up With Beginning of New Congressional Term |
The movement to impeach President George W. Bush is kicking into high gear with the beginning of the new Congressional term. Some advocates have called for 500,000 letters demanding action to Nancy Pelosi, to be sent on her first day as Speaker. Many believe that impeachment is the only way to bring the troops home. There will be lobbying and a protest in Washington, DC this week, and on Saturday morning in San Francisco, people will form a human "Impeach" sign at Ocean Beach. 
Photos from December 31st Impeachment rally San Jose.
Photos from December 31st Impeachment rally San Jose.
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Jan 02 2007
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Fresno Commemorates 3,000 American Iraq War Deaths |
Peace activists in Fresno held a commemoration for the 3,000 Americans that have died fighting in Iraq. The event was held at Peace Corner (Shaw and Blackstone) and organized by Peace Fresno. At least 150 people attended.
Report, Activist Statements, and Photos
Report, Activist Statements, and Photos
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Jan 02 2007
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Grandmothers Against the War Holds New Years Vigil |
On the first day of the New Year, Grandmothers Against The War and supporters lined the sidewalk along 5th Ave in NYC.
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Jan 02 2007
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Palabras desde el Encuentro de los Pueblos Zapatistas con los Pueblos del mundo |
See Chiapas Indymedia for stories, photos, and audio from the Zapatista Intergalactic Encuentro with the Peoples of the World in Oventik, Chiapas, Mexico.
EZLN, 2007: Plan de acción nacional e internacional
Subcomandante Marcos: La Historia del EZLN es la historia de una dignidad que se hace colectiva
30 dic., Oventic: Inicia el Encuentro entre los Pueblos Zapatistas y los Pueblos del Mundo
31 de diciembre: segundo día de actividades en Oventik
3er boletín del Encuentro de los Pueblos Zapatistas con los Pueblos del mundo
30 dic a 2 Ene: Escucha en Vivo desde Oventic Chiapas transmisión del Encuentro Intergalactica | Fotos
EZLN, 2007: Plan de acción nacional e internacional
Subcomandante Marcos: La Historia del EZLN es la historia de una dignidad que se hace colectiva
30 dic., Oventic: Inicia el Encuentro entre los Pueblos Zapatistas y los Pueblos del Mundo
31 de diciembre: segundo día de actividades en Oventik
3er boletín del Encuentro de los Pueblos Zapatistas con los Pueblos del mundo
30 dic a 2 Ene: Escucha en Vivo desde Oventic Chiapas transmisión del Encuentro Intergalactica | Fotos
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Jan 02 2007
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CODEPINK Vigil Participants Harassed, Arrested |
In conjunction with hundreds of demonstrations around the U.S., Bay Area CODEPINK Women for Peace marked the 3,000th U.S. combat death in Iraq with a planned walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. The San Francisco contingent was met by law enforcement who told them that the bridge was private property and they were not allowed to walk across it. According to eyewitness and arrestee Janet Weil: "Ten of us, eight women and two men, were arrested after a two-and-a-half hour "stand-in" at the southern end of the bridge. The charge: "trespassing on the Golden Gate Bridge" even though it is a public bridge, AND we never were permitted to set foot on the bridge until, ironically, we were arrested by the CHP."
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Jan 02 2007
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Virginia Represent: New Year's Eve at the First Encounter of the Zapatista Communities with the Peoples of the World |
As the clock struck 12:00 last night hundreds of soldiers from Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN in spanish initials) and hundreds more civilians from the Zapatista civil society organizations assembled on the basketball court before the mainstage of the International Meeting between the Zapatista People and the People of the World. Around the perimeter of the Zapatistas were thousands of international supporters and rebels who had come to participate in the meetings. In this crowd of internationals were representatives from organizations working in Virginia, including the Woodbridge Workers Committee, The Committee of Indigenous Solidarity, Mexicanos Sin Fronteras, The Snails Pace Collective, and Richmond Indymedia. Moments after midnight, dozens of members of the EZLN comandancia dramatically took the stage…
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Jan 03 2007
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18th Annual People's State of the State Rally In Albany |
Call for Universal Health Care, Making Work Pay, Food Policy Council. Advocates of the poor called today for Governor Spitzer to make ending hunger and poverty a priority for his administration. Speakers at the 18th annual People’s State of the State in front of the state Capitol said that poverty was a rampant problem throughout the state, particularly in upstate cities. || DMU Blog: Gov. Spitzer and Arianna Huffington
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Jan 03 2007
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Veterans for Peace Acknowledge 3,000th US Death |
SANTA MONICA, January 1, 2007 - The year 2006 ended with the announcement of 3,000th death of a US soldier in Iraq. In Santa Monica the anti-war group, Veterans for Peace, lit 3,000 candles at their memorial installation on the beach. Also a number of local neighborhood vigils were held throughout the Los Angeles area to mark the news.
From the Newswire VIDEO: Veterans For Peace light 3,000 candles on Santa Monica beach | | Photos from veterans for peace installation
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Jan 03 2007
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Peace Activists Say STOP WARS at Rose Parade |
PASADENA, January 2, 2007 - A small group of anti-war activists were able to get their message out at the New Year's Day parade in Pasadena today. Peace activists succeeded in hanging a large banner which read STOP WARS along the parade route. Also at another location a large sign reading IMPEACH was raised and clearly seen on a live TV broadcast of the parade. Demonstrators were also able to march following at the end of the parade for the full length of the parade route. The response from parade goers was mostly positive. From the Newswire Report: Peace Action at Rose Parade | | Stop Wars: More Activism at the Rose Parade
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Jan 03 2007
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Protestors line Memorial bridge to mark 3,000 US dead in Iraq |
With 3003 US soldiers reported dead as that time, well over 50 protestors gathered by candlelight during evening rush hour on Jan 2, on the VA side of Memorial Bridge and its approached by Arlington Cemetary.
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Jan 03 2007
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A cancer survivor, a smoker and an Ashtray react 2 DCs new SMOKING BAN |
DC insists on being a smoking-free district, so Jannelle and Joel took to the street to listen in on the reactions to the smoke ban going into effect today Tuesday Jan 2nd 2007.
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Jan 03 2007
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1st Encounter Between the Zapatistas and the Peoples of World |
The last day of the year started today at the Zapatista Caracol of Oventik, in Chiapas, with two morning workgroups during which the zapatistas shared the everyday construction of their autonomy in the areas of education and health, in the context of the discussions of the First Encounter Between the Zapatistas and the Peoples of the World.
Thousands of community supporters of the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) and over 1,500 men and women from 40 countries around the world joined at 8:00 AM the two workgroups where autonomous education, the development of educational curricula in resistance, the zapatistas' health system, the challenges, obstacles, and small achievements of their work are being discussed.
Thousands of community supporters of the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) and over 1,500 men and women from 40 countries around the world joined at 8:00 AM the two workgroups where autonomous education, the development of educational curricula in resistance, the zapatistas' health system, the challenges, obstacles, and small achievements of their work are being discussed.
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Jan 03 2007
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The 2006 Chicago Indymedia Year in Review |
Chicagoans in 2006 saw the crystallization of prominent activist efforts — from the Festival of Rights on Michigan Avenue to the record-breaking immigrants rights protests on May Day and throughout the year.
Chicago Indymedia has helped made those invisible stories visible, providing a platform for coverage, announcements, commentary, organizing. We commemorate that work in the calendar year that just passed — the struggles, the successes, the tragedies, the triumphs — in Chicago Indymedia's 2006 Year In Review.
Chicago Indymedia has helped made those invisible stories visible, providing a platform for coverage, announcements, commentary, organizing. We commemorate that work in the calendar year that just passed — the struggles, the successes, the tragedies, the triumphs — in Chicago Indymedia's 2006 Year In Review.
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Jan 03 2007
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Smash the WEF |
For years the representatives of capital, their strategists, politicians and propaganda makers meet in the village of Davos, turned into an alpine fortress for the World Economic Forum (WEF). What have these meetings of the past few years achieved? Neither the alpine air or the pretence of charity can have a positive effect on the reduction of daily living standards. In that area, there is absolutely no improvement in sight: war and the dismantling of social structures are proving themselves to be the core of the long-term agenda of the ruling elite.
Smash G8 in Germany 2007
From 4th to 7th of June 2007 the G8-Summit in Heiligendamm, in the proximity of Rostock, in Germany takes place. Also the mobilization of the Leftwing against the G8-Summit already runs on full speed. Different alliances are founded,several nationwide meetings did take place, also with international participation and an approximate plan of action for the protests is already fixed. Already now there are numerous actions, which mobilize to the events of protest against the G8-summit. Because of the 100.000 expected demonstrators at the Main Manifestation in the Rostock City at 2nd of June 2007 the policeforces are preparing since some time their operation and security plan for the whole region and for Rostock. Here comes an overview over the conditions of the mobilization.
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Jan 03 2007
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Calls to Protest the Impending Incarceration of MMJ Grower Stephanie Landa |
Medical cannabis patient and provider Stephanie Landa is scheduled to turn herself in to federal authorities by 12pm on Thursday, January 4th, 2007. HempEvolution.org, Axis of Love, and Patient Advocacy Network will be holding a rally and protest at 10:30AM at 450 Golden Gate Ave in San Francisco, before Ms. Landa "surrenders" herself. They are asking that people bring flowers, cards, etc. to show their appreciation for Ms. Landa's work in the fight for safe access. Supporters are also asking that people fax Judge Alsup and the US Attorney's Office in San Francisco to demand that Landa's sentence be vacated.
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Jan 03 2007
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Interview With Radical Elder: Anarchist John Zerzan |
JZ: Given the failure of the Left to address reality, new sources - such as indigenous wisdom - are needed for sustenance and inspiration. The acceptance of mass production, mass society, mass culture, mass consumption is unacceptable; instead we need visions and critiques that refuse the industrial techno-culture and its suicidal trajectory.
Green anarchy/anti-civilization/primitivism poses questions that undermine the ensemble of institutions too long simply accepted without judgment. What has passed for opposition or resistance has largely gone along with what is questioning mainly only who is in charge in lieu of interrogating and opposing the components of this dismal present.
Zerzan will be in Portland, Oregon this Friday, January 5 at 7 PM
Laughing Horse Books, located at 10 NE 12th St.
Green anarchy/anti-civilization/primitivism poses questions that undermine the ensemble of institutions too long simply accepted without judgment. What has passed for opposition or resistance has largely gone along with what is questioning mainly only who is in charge in lieu of interrogating and opposing the components of this dismal present.
Zerzan will be in Portland, Oregon this Friday, January 5 at 7 PM
Laughing Horse Books, located at 10 NE 12th St.
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Jan 03 2007
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Independent Press Association Ceases Operations, Leaves Trail of Creditors & Questions in Its Wake |
Founded in 1996 "to promote and support independent publications dedicated to social justice and a free press", the Independent Press Association (IPA) announced Dec. 27 that it was ceasing operations immediately. Based in San Francisco, IPA's demise follows more than a year of growing concerns about financial mismanagement of the organization's newsstand distribution service which in turn has wreaked havoc on dozens of small, independent publishers. IPA's New York office, which bears no responsibility for the crisis, will be spinning off as a project seperate from the national IPA (see update from IPA-NY director below). IPA-NY provides technical assistance for dozens of local ethnic and community papers, publishes a weekly online newsletter that features the best work of its member papers, sponsors the "Ippies" community journalism awards and runs the George Washington Williams Fellowship and the Campus Journalism Project || Other Press: The Independent Press Association is Dead || Indy Press Newsstand Services || SF Weekly Feature on IPA's Woes || The Ripple Effect: Clamor Goes Under || Just Seeds Struggles to Survive || Voices That Must Be Heard
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Jan 03 2007
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EZ-Supply and Amersino warehouse workers fight back |
On a windy and brisk January morning, more than 50 foodstuffs workers and their supporters rang in the New Year with pickets to demand their basic rights as workers. The actions, held on the morning of Jan. 2 in front of local foodstuffs distributors, Amersino Marketing Group and EZ-Supply, were organized by the Food and Allied Workers Union of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), I.U. 460.
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Jan 03 2007
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LES Ecology Center to Hold to Collect "E-Waste" Sunday at Union Square |
Sunday, January 7th at Union Square Park - North Plaza - 17th Street & Broadway - Rain or shine from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Acceptable items include all working and non-working:
Computers (desktop & labtop), monitors, printers, and other peripherals (keyboards, mice, external cd drive, modems, etc), TV's and cell phones
Computers (desktop & labtop), monitors, printers, and other peripherals (keyboards, mice, external cd drive, modems, etc), TV's and cell phones
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Jan 03 2007
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Inkywatch: Editors Opt for Militarization While Obscuring Deaths of Saddam Hussein and Gerald Ford |
The editorial page of the Inky, which editor Chris Satullo told me several years ago was “left leaning”-- thus justifying the saturation of the Commentary page with rightwingers --keeps moving rightward, but of course without any offset by an infusion of liberals let alone leftists. In this process of rightward drift the paper gets farther and farther away from speaking for the general public and reflecting its sentiments, and it will not allow those sentiments to be heard.
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Jan 03 2007
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Canine Brutality in Rosarito Beach! |
Those caught are thrown into the metal cage. Healthy dogs, people's pets and puppies are tossed in with sick and dying dogs. Those who survive are driven to the dog pound, where over 80% will be strapped to electrical cords......
Incredibly, due to the secretiveness surrounding city hall and the ego of its animal control director, Raul Pena, Rosarito has refused to ok a $50,000 dog rescue program... Please contact Rosarito city officials and let them know that humanity knows no boundaries, when it comes to barbarism and cruelty against defenseless animals. Tell them you will not visit Rosarito until it creates human methods of canine control and until the city begins a free sterilization program. --Read More--
Sign Petition
Incredibly, due to the secretiveness surrounding city hall and the ego of its animal control director, Raul Pena, Rosarito has refused to ok a $50,000 dog rescue program... Please contact Rosarito city officials and let them know that humanity knows no boundaries, when it comes to barbarism and cruelty against defenseless animals. Tell them you will not visit Rosarito until it creates human methods of canine control and until the city begins a free sterilization program. --Read More--
Sign Petition
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Jan 03 2007
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Come to Jan 7 Memorial Ride for Cyclists Killed in 2006 |
2006 Bicyclist Memorial Ride, Sunday, January 7th, 2007
Some Locations: Bronx Ride: 9am: Meet@ Pelham Bay stop on the 6 train.
Queens/Brooklyn Ride: 945am: Meet @ Jamaica Center stop on the E or J trains.
Ride in honor of the bicyclists who died on the streets in 2006. These victims will not be forgotten.
Memorial Ride Video
Stories from Last Year's Memorial Ride: 1 | 2 | 3
Some Locations: Bronx Ride: 9am: Meet@ Pelham Bay stop on the 6 train.
Queens/Brooklyn Ride: 945am: Meet @ Jamaica Center stop on the E or J trains.
Ride in honor of the bicyclists who died on the streets in 2006. These victims will not be forgotten.
Memorial Ride Video
Stories from Last Year's Memorial Ride: 1 | 2 | 3
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Jan 03 2007
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Army Attempts To Redefine Free Speech |
U.S. Army Prosecuters have subpoenaed two journalists to testify for the prosecution in the Court Martial of Lt. Ehren Watada who, in 2006, refused deployment to Iraq on the grounds that the U.S. occupation there is immoral. Both independent journalist Sarah Olson, and Honolulu Star Bulletin reporter Gregg Kakesako, face potential prison time if they do not testify against Mr. Watada whose exercising of his First-Amendment right to free speech served as their source of information. Another respected independent journalist, Dahr Jamail, has been put on the prosecution's witness list. The article that follows clearly and precisely clarifies Ms. Olson's objections to the Army's attempts to censor, and thus chill constitutionally-guaranteed speech and the right to a free press.
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Jan 04 2007
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Philippines: Brazen Arrogance of Power |
"It's an utterly shameless act of collaboration of the Arroyo regime and the U.S. government."
This was the statement of Myrla Baldonado, spokesperson of Task Force Subic Rape (TFSR) on the stealthy transfer of custody of Daniel Smith from the Makati City Jail to the U.S. Embassy. Smith was convicted in December of raping a Filipino woman, identified only as “Nicole” to protect her privacy, while on leave from joint war games in the northern port of Subic.
Washington demanded Smith be turned over to its embassy, citing the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) of 1998 which says that jurisdiction over any American soldier convicted of crimes while on official tour should reside with American authorities. But the Manila court which tried the case rejected that argument, stressing that rape was a "heinous" and non-bailable crime in this former American colony.
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Jan 04 2007
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Washington County Peace Vigil 1-3-07 |
Approximately 60 people attended tonights gathering at 5th and Hall Street across from the Beaverton City Library. Please let your congressional and senate representatives know that additional funding for the Iraqi occupation is unacceptable. We have gathered for over 60 straight weeks. George Bush is considering a "surge" of another 20,000 soldiers into Iraq. Please consider us as Oregon's surge protector and join us every wednesday from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. You will be glad you did.
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Jan 04 2007
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A Teachable Moment: Drawing the Lines from Gerald Ford to George W. Bush |
Watching the TV news and reading the print and e-media coverage of the death and several funerals (?) for former president Gerald Ford has presented what I believe to be one of the most teachable moments in modern American history. Instead, we are treated to a highly polished act of historical whitewash. It starts with the sanitization of history that precedes the death of any past American president, when the major media prepare the official picture of the decedent's import to the office and the nation. [more]
media circus -- Hey, I am old enough to remember the deaths of several presidents, from FDR forward, and yet... The only time that I remember more than a couple of days of mention was when JFK was shot, in office. This thing has gone on for over a week, and they are just now getting round to putting him in the ground. There were several presidents in there that were ACTUALLY elected, and who actually did something positive for the country. Is my memory faulty? [more]
Bury him, already! We can still count -- We are still counting the coffins returning from Iraq, and yes, HERE, we even count those who are not Amerikan. We count the innocents, the babies, the mothers, the aged, and all of those that we are so cruelly murdering in Iraq. We are also very aware of our duplicity in the deaths of so many in Darfur. So, go ahead with your dog and dead president show, just like dead Ron, this slight of media will not cover the sins of this cabal. [more]
Gerald Ford hero or zero? -- Did I miss something? What the hell is all the "president Ford was a great blah blah" rhetoric? Watching all those republicans prancing around the body of a man who probably did this country more harm then Bush (whether knowingly or not) has is just so *insert wicked phrase here* disgusting. Ah yes, how far the conspiring right has come... They have even gone as far as to try and blame the democrats for wanting to "divide" the nation at a time when the nation needed "healing". [more]
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Jan 04 2007
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Northeast Anarchist Consulta in Preparation for May Actions |
Calling All Anarchists and Anti-Authoritarians, Converge at the Northeast Anarchist Consulta this February 24th and 25th to strategize and organize for a massive Week of Resistance this May, from our participation in May Day (May 1st) and the movement for migrant workers' rights to the Biotech Convention (coming to Boston May 6-9) and the movement in defense of the earth.
This new year presents us with the opportunity to come together - "red," "green," and anarchists of all stripes - and fight back against the political and corporate machine that is strangling human society and all life on this planet. W
This new year presents us with the opportunity to come together - "red," "green," and anarchists of all stripes - and fight back against the political and corporate machine that is strangling human society and all life on this planet. W
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Jan 04 2007
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3,000+ American Soldiers, 650,000+ Iraqis Killed in Iraq |
To mark the grim milestone of 3,000 American soldiers killed in Iraq, local peace and justice groups held candlelight vigils throughout the region. In Byrn Mawr, people gathered on Lancaster Avenue to recite the names of the fallen, while their allies at City Hall did the same. Local peace groups continue to demonstrate every last Friday of the month in Center City, while over the past year citizens have demonstrated once a month outside of Senator Arlen Specter's house in East Falls. This all comes at a time when President Bush is reportedly considering a "surge" increase of troops in Iraq.
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Jan 04 2007
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Suzanne Swift Released from Military Prison, Supporters Rally at Ft. Lewis |
On January 3, 2007, Supporters of Spc. Suzanne Swift rallied outside Fort Lewis, Washington to welcome the news that Swift had been released from military prison. Photos
On December 14 Swift was convicted by a summary court martial for missing movement and being AWOL after her charges of sexual harassment and assault went un-addressed by the military.
On December 14 Swift was convicted by a summary court martial for missing movement and being AWOL after her charges of sexual harassment and assault went un-addressed by the military.
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Jan 04 2007
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Protest Torture and Detainment in Union Square January 11 |
Thursday January 11, 2007 is the 5th anniversary of illegal detention at Guantánamo Naval Base. Witness Against Torture and other groups are organizing protest nationwide. In San Francisco, a protest will be held from noon until 6pm in Union Square.
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Jan 04 2007
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Homeless in Fresno Ordered off “The Island” |
1/1/2007: Caltrans, backed up by the California Highway Patrol forced people to leave a strip of State land near highway 99 today. Joanna Garcia says the CHP arrived carrying shotguns and told everyone to leave immediately. Photos
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Jan 04 2007
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Cob & Straw Bale Homebuilder Workshop |
May 12-19, 2007 - Shamrock, OK: Join us for a week of natural building construction and education in NE Oklahoma. Our 7 full days of workshop activity will cover cob and straw bale construction from start to finish including siting, design, foundation, wall construction, windows/doors, roof, plasters, arches, niches and relief sculpture.
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Jan 04 2007
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When our drinking water is under attack--What do we do? Act Up! Fight Back! |
For the past 23 years I have lived in Hemlock. The surrounding environment is absolutely stunning and it makes for an experience to not soon be forgotten. Venturing down to Hemlock or Canadice lakes makes for some pretty rugged wild adventures into the woods where the bears hibernate and the bald eagles soar. Sometimes late at night I can hear the coyotes howling at the moon. The two lakes are magical spots that have magnificent ancient histories surrounding them, including but not limited to being one of the largest tracts of old growth forest in North Eastern America. These lakes and their undeveloped surroundings have also acted as the source of Rochester's drinking water for over 130 years.
On December 17th, the Democrat and Chronicle (D&C) reported that “the Monroe County Water Authority and the City of Rochester, are about to begin discussions that could lead to a radical restructuring” which could lead to a possible ownership change for Hemlock and Canadice lakes. Rochester Mayor Robert Duffy wants to permanently preserve the land which encompasses the two lakes, but has also not ruled out the possibility of development. Rumors are also around that some folks would like to develop the land and although the specific groups are not mentioned in the article it seems that one of the prime prospects for making a profit off of Hemlock Lake could come from logging companies.
Hemlock Lake and Canadice Lake should remain forever wild and the surrounding community should be able to directly participate in the decisions that most effect their lives, such as the preservation of this eco-system in their backyard. The Finger Lakes region of Upstate, NY along with the Great Lakes make for one of the highest concentrations of fresh water in the entire world and we need to protect these natural resources from further development along with promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. Read the full article here.
Additional Information: Article originally posted at York Staters | City Paper: Ferry's problems aren't like Water Authority's | The Return of the Water Scandal | Monroe County Water Authority board members' corporate and political affiliations | Atlantic (NY) Chapter of Sierra Club Refutes Arguments of MCWA for New Water Supply Plant | Will the New Webster Water Plant Help or Hurt the Community of Monroe? | Protecting New York's only remaining undeveloped Finger Lakes | Should we cut old growth trees in Hemlock?
On December 17th, the Democrat and Chronicle (D&C) reported that “the Monroe County Water Authority and the City of Rochester, are about to begin discussions that could lead to a radical restructuring” which could lead to a possible ownership change for Hemlock and Canadice lakes. Rochester Mayor Robert Duffy wants to permanently preserve the land which encompasses the two lakes, but has also not ruled out the possibility of development. Rumors are also around that some folks would like to develop the land and although the specific groups are not mentioned in the article it seems that one of the prime prospects for making a profit off of Hemlock Lake could come from logging companies.
Hemlock Lake and Canadice Lake should remain forever wild and the surrounding community should be able to directly participate in the decisions that most effect their lives, such as the preservation of this eco-system in their backyard. The Finger Lakes region of Upstate, NY along with the Great Lakes make for one of the highest concentrations of fresh water in the entire world and we need to protect these natural resources from further development along with promoting a more sustainable lifestyle. Read the full article here.
Additional Information: Article originally posted at York Staters | City Paper: Ferry's problems aren't like Water Authority's | The Return of the Water Scandal | Monroe County Water Authority board members' corporate and political affiliations | Atlantic (NY) Chapter of Sierra Club Refutes Arguments of MCWA for New Water Supply Plant | Will the New Webster Water Plant Help or Hurt the Community of Monroe? | Protecting New York's only remaining undeveloped Finger Lakes | Should we cut old growth trees in Hemlock?
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Jan 04 2007
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Demonstrators Stand Up for the Hens Before Christmas |
On Saturday, December 23, 2006, eight activists stood up for the 750,000 hens imprisoned at Wegmans Egg Farm in Wolcott, NY. Demonstrators were well-received by members of the public and employees alike at the East Avenue store in Rochester, NY. Several passing motorists expressed their support for our campaign, and several copies of "Wegmans Cruelty" were distributed to interested consumers.
Adam Durand, one of the documentarians of Wegmans Cruelty and the President of Compassionate Consumers, was sentenced to 6 months in jail on May 16, 2006 for a first time offense of trespassing by Judge Dennis Kehoe. However, Durand was released after being granted a stay of sentence nearly a month later after appealing the harsh sentence, which was an obvious attempt to silence critics of the company’s inhumane practices. Adam’s appeal is set to be ruled on in mid-February.
Photos: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
Additional Information: See the documentary here | Sign a petition asking Wegmans to phase out battery cages | Donate to the Legal Defense Fund
Adam Durand, one of the documentarians of Wegmans Cruelty and the President of Compassionate Consumers, was sentenced to 6 months in jail on May 16, 2006 for a first time offense of trespassing by Judge Dennis Kehoe. However, Durand was released after being granted a stay of sentence nearly a month later after appealing the harsh sentence, which was an obvious attempt to silence critics of the company’s inhumane practices. Adam’s appeal is set to be ruled on in mid-February.
Photos: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
Additional Information: See the documentary here | Sign a petition asking Wegmans to phase out battery cages | Donate to the Legal Defense Fund
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Jan 04 2007
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December After-Mass Screening: Granito de Arena |
Rochester Indymedia presents Granito de Arena (or Grain of Sand in Spanish)—a documentary about the democratic teachers' union movement in Mexico for the next After—Mass event.
When: Friday, December 29th, 7PM
Where: St. Joseph's House of Hospitality, located at 402 South Ave.
Also, before the screening we'd like to do a collectivized reading of a children's Christmas story called Burn Christmas! Burn! by Brian Gage in order to work out some of that post-Christmas angst.
St. Joe's is wheelchair accessible. This event is free and open to the public. Free refreshments to be served—discussion to follow.
Critical Mass meets at the Liberty Pole in downtown at 6PM. Rides are slow-moving, leaderless and open to all levels of experience and modes of human-powered transportation. Ride Daily—Celebrate Monthly!
The Crisis in Urban Education: Resisting Neoliberal Policies and Forging Democratic Possibilities
When: Friday, December 29th, 7PM
Where: St. Joseph's House of Hospitality, located at 402 South Ave.
Also, before the screening we'd like to do a collectivized reading of a children's Christmas story called Burn Christmas! Burn! by Brian Gage in order to work out some of that post-Christmas angst.
St. Joe's is wheelchair accessible. This event is free and open to the public. Free refreshments to be served—discussion to follow.
Critical Mass meets at the Liberty Pole in downtown at 6PM. Rides are slow-moving, leaderless and open to all levels of experience and modes of human-powered transportation. Ride Daily—Celebrate Monthly!
The Crisis in Urban Education: Resisting Neoliberal Policies and Forging Democratic Possibilities
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Jan 04 2007
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"Troops out now!" -- Anti-War Protesters Hit Streets |
At noon on Saturday, December 16, around 60 people gathered for an anti-war march organized by the Parma Student Peace Initiative. The event started with a presentation by Rochester Against War Street Theater (RAW Theater). The artists represented a version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with Bush playing the role of Scrooge. After the short play, high school student organizers started handing out banners and signs to the people for the march. During the march the activists demanded the immediate withdrawal of the US troops from Iraq. According to a CBS News Poll for December 8-10, 75% of US citizens disapprove of the way George W. Bush is handling the war in Iraq. Because the decision to “stay the course” does not come from the people, the marchers demanded: “Power to the people 'cause the people want peace!”
Also, on Thursday, December 14th, approximately 50 anti-war protesters rallied in front of the Federal Building on State St. demanding the immediate exit of troops from Iraq and the repeal of the Military Commissions Act of 2006.
Photos: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
Addional Links: Parma Student Peace Initiative | Wilson Anti-War Alliance | Rochester Against War | RAW Theater | Peace Action and Education | Rochester Branch of the International Socialist Organization
Also, on Thursday, December 14th, approximately 50 anti-war protesters rallied in front of the Federal Building on State St. demanding the immediate exit of troops from Iraq and the repeal of the Military Commissions Act of 2006.
Photos: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
Addional Links: Parma Student Peace Initiative | Wilson Anti-War Alliance | Rochester Against War | RAW Theater | Peace Action and Education | Rochester Branch of the International Socialist Organization
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Jan 04 2007
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Local Volunteers Heading to Haiti have Successful Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser |
A packed St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality boasted an all-you-could-eat pancake breakfast this past Sunday in order to raise money for two of its members who are planning to head back to Haiti in order to complete and expand sanitation and water purification programs as well as social empowerment and infrastructure projects already begun last spring.
Sarah Brownell and Kevin Foos—full-time volunteers with St. Joe’s—will continue work started with the community in Borgne, Haiti, Sustainable Organic Integrated Livelihoods, and Haiti Outreach: Pwoje Espwa or H.O.P.E. when they depart Rochester sometime in January. The two volunteers plan on finishing the refurbishing of a “poor house”—a space for individuals and families who lack housing, build ecologically sound toilets, expand sanitation as well as water purification systems, expand on a photo project called “Looking Through Their Eyes”, and create an experimental garden in order to demonstrate new compost techniques. Other goals include the creation of a community center, starting a textbook lending library, and expanding education projects and health care training.
Sarah and Kevin are looking for both travel and project donations. Please e-mail Sarah at zanmitaj@yahoo.com for more information.
Also, the two volunteers will be presenting to the Rochester Committee on Latin America and others on their work in Haiti: January 3rd, 7PM at DUPC.
Additional Information: St. Joseph's House of Hospitality | Haiti Outreach: Pwoje Espwa or H.O.P.E. | Sustainible Organic Integrated Livelihoods or S.O.I.L. | Rochester Committee on Latin America or ROCLA | Haiti, Borgne's Technology Center: Sante Teknoloji
Sarah Brownell and Kevin Foos—full-time volunteers with St. Joe’s—will continue work started with the community in Borgne, Haiti, Sustainable Organic Integrated Livelihoods, and Haiti Outreach: Pwoje Espwa or H.O.P.E. when they depart Rochester sometime in January. The two volunteers plan on finishing the refurbishing of a “poor house”—a space for individuals and families who lack housing, build ecologically sound toilets, expand sanitation as well as water purification systems, expand on a photo project called “Looking Through Their Eyes”, and create an experimental garden in order to demonstrate new compost techniques. Other goals include the creation of a community center, starting a textbook lending library, and expanding education projects and health care training.
Sarah and Kevin are looking for both travel and project donations. Please e-mail Sarah at zanmitaj@yahoo.com for more information.
Also, the two volunteers will be presenting to the Rochester Committee on Latin America and others on their work in Haiti: January 3rd, 7PM at DUPC.
Additional Information: St. Joseph's House of Hospitality | Haiti Outreach: Pwoje Espwa or H.O.P.E. | Sustainible Organic Integrated Livelihoods or S.O.I.L. | Rochester Committee on Latin America or ROCLA | Haiti, Borgne's Technology Center: Sante Teknoloji
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Jan 05 2007
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ALL DIAMONDS ARE CONFLICT DIAMONDS |
Robbins Brothers advertises themselves as "World's Biggest Engagement Ring Store"; and over and over again during the 2006 holiday season, consumers had to listen to these two brothers promise the most beautiful diamond in the world to the women and reasonable prices to the men. Men wear rings too, right? Every hour on the hour I couldn't turn to a "mainstream" radio station without hearing about diamonds.
Strip mining any natural resource from any land creates an unbalance felt by plant and animal life, interferes with natural irrigation or soil settlement and exploits the worker. Most people around the world that work in or on "mining" sites are at one of the highest risk for on the job injuries, have adverse future health problems and are paid low wages (not counting forced labor).
There is no such thing as a conflict-free diamond. The purchase of what is advertised as a precious and priceless stone costs others in low-wages, dangerous working conditions, limbs and lives. The conflict between humans and the environment is as divisive as the conflict between war and peace.
Strip mining any natural resource from any land creates an unbalance felt by plant and animal life, interferes with natural irrigation or soil settlement and exploits the worker. Most people around the world that work in or on "mining" sites are at one of the highest risk for on the job injuries, have adverse future health problems and are paid low wages (not counting forced labor).
There is no such thing as a conflict-free diamond. The purchase of what is advertised as a precious and priceless stone costs others in low-wages, dangerous working conditions, limbs and lives. The conflict between humans and the environment is as divisive as the conflict between war and peace.
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Jan 05 2007
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New Katrina Survivor Documentary "Down but not Out" |
Screening: Saturday, Jan. 6th, 7:30pm, RCNV 515 Broadway
On August 29, 2006, Hurricane Katrina attacked the Gulf Coast of the United States. A Category-5 hurricane, Katrina destroyed entire towns and left a trail of destruction in her wake. But the impact was magnified by city, state, and federal government negligence, and in no city was there a better example of the government's failure than in New Orleans, where thousands were killed-both by water and bullets-and hundreds of thousands were left behind to save themselves.
In early August 2006, almost one year after the disaster, survivors sit down and talk about their experiences of fighting for survival in the days following Katrina, and how their lives have progressed since returning to New Orleans. Providing accounts of living in a city whose populace has largely been forgotten, the survivors give a stinging description of a slow reconstruction process that is ignoring the human cost of rebuilding. Down But Not Out shows the people directly affected by the fallout from Hurricane Katrina, and lets those who experienced it tell the stories themselves. Read more and download flyer
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Jan 05 2007
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End Torture and Detainment: Protest in DC, January 11 |
Thursday January 11, 2007 is the 5th anniversary of illegal detention at Guantánamo Naval Base. Build your own Gitmo cage, and join the nationwide protests! Events are being coordinated by Witness Against Torture. An orientation session will be held on January 10th for the event in Washington DC on the 11th.
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Jan 05 2007
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LA-IMC Top 10 Stories for the Year 2006 |
The year 2006 was a year of massive demonstrations some of them reaching over one million protesters in Los Angeles. Many issues, some old and some new, brought increased traffic to the LA-IMC site. La.indymedia.org now gets an average of 5.5 million hits per month. The LA-IMC Collective has compiled a list of the top 10 local stories for the year 2006.
The list is based on traffic, number of hits and the ongoing importance of the story to local activists. The list is not ranked. Stories are listed in chronological order of their first appearance on the newswire.
The Los Angeles Indymedia Collective would like to thank all those reporters, photographers, video and sound recorders, organizers and activists for their contribution
The list is based on traffic, number of hits and the ongoing importance of the story to local activists. The list is not ranked. Stories are listed in chronological order of their first appearance on the newswire.
The Los Angeles Indymedia Collective would like to thank all those reporters, photographers, video and sound recorders, organizers and activists for their contribution
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Jan 05 2007
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Oklahoma Wiki launched |
Online encyclopedia intended to be a place for alternative perspectives on OK history and culture All Oklahomans are encouraged to participate in Oklahoma Wiki....Also in time, I hope that Oklahoma Wiki could be ran through consensus-decision making processes, either as part of the Oklahoma Indy Media Center project or as a seperate but complementary collective.
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Jan 05 2007
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Banner dropped in Hart building while protestors demand impeachment and end to war. |
While World Can't Wait and other groups protested in Upper Senate park, 12 people broke away and dropped a banner INSIDE the Hart Senate Office Building.
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Jan 05 2007
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Last minute reprieve: Woodland apartment evictions moved to early next week |
January 4th was the highly controversial eviction date for Woodlands residents. 18 families, including 40 children, remained with no place to go. Overcrowded and under funded homeless shelters seemed the best or only option for the majority of these families. Common Ground Legal had been in contact with Johnson Properties, the new owners of the Woodlands apartment complex, and at the last minute was able to negotiate a reprieve.
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Jan 05 2007
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Spring native Dustin Donica is 3,000th US soldier to die in Iraq |
Thursday December 26th saw US Army soldier and Spring native Dustin Donica killed by small arms fire in Iraq (according to the Department of Defense). His death was the 3,000th death of US service people in Iraq. Donica, 22, was a graduate of Klein high school and attended the University of Texas.
269 soldiers from Texas have died in Iraq, 25 from the city of Houston and more than a dozen from the surrounding area including 4 others from Spring. Casualties of Iraqis vary from a minumum of 52,000, to estimates of as much as 654,965
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Jan 05 2007
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Medford Rally Jan 6, 3000 Dead Memoriam |
IN MEMORIUM: 3,000 US DEAD IN IRAQ
A MEDFORD PEACE ACTION TO HONOR US SOLDIERS KILLED IN IRAQ
AND TO URGE OUR GOVERNMENT TO BRING OUR TROOPS HOME NOW
This Saturday, January 6, there will be a memorial gathering in honor of the 3,000th American soldier in Iraq and all who have died in that tragic war, held on the perimeter of the Rogue Valley Mall in Medford beginning at 1:00 pm near the Shell service station and the northwest corner of the mall property. As of News Years Eve, 2006, 3,000 US service personnel have died in the Iraq War.
A MEDFORD PEACE ACTION TO HONOR US SOLDIERS KILLED IN IRAQ
AND TO URGE OUR GOVERNMENT TO BRING OUR TROOPS HOME NOW
This Saturday, January 6, there will be a memorial gathering in honor of the 3,000th American soldier in Iraq and all who have died in that tragic war, held on the perimeter of the Rogue Valley Mall in Medford beginning at 1:00 pm near the Shell service station and the northwest corner of the mall property. As of News Years Eve, 2006, 3,000 US service personnel have died in the Iraq War.
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Jan 05 2007
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Critical Mass Miami: Bike Ride on Saturday January 13th |
Friends and Fellow Cyclists- We have another exciting Critical Mass coming up in exactly 9 days! On Saturday, January 13 at 10:00 a.m., we'll be meeting at the Brickell Metrorail station and riding through the Grove to Merry Christmas Park and back to Brickell. Meet new friends and enjoy amazing weather as you make a statement about sharing the road and getting fit.
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Jan 05 2007
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Taking back the land at Desert Rock site on the Dine (Navajo) ReZ |
So yea it been crazy...so much to process, so much. This land is magical and powerful, it is aslo being stripped of its natural beauty by corporate criminals. We are going to break through the police baracade today. The police are set up at the proposed site for the Desert Rock Powerplant (it would be yet ANOTHER coal fired one).
There is so much happening for us right now...the pollution is out of control, like seriously, I have never in my life seen anything like this. It makes me sad beyond descripton. Native, Indigenous Peoples land is being desacrated by white corporate amerikkka.
The Dine (Navajo) people live around these phenemonial mountains and surrounding desert. When we were about 100 miles from the ReZ my comrades told me to look up ahead. What I seen was these huge mountains that streched from East to West, taking up most of the forefront horizon. The thing is is that I could hardly see them becasue of the smog that they were (are) covered in...I mean smog like you would expect to see in LA or NYC, not the middle of the desert in NM.
There is so much happening for us right now...the pollution is out of control, like seriously, I have never in my life seen anything like this. It makes me sad beyond descripton. Native, Indigenous Peoples land is being desacrated by white corporate amerikkka.
The Dine (Navajo) people live around these phenemonial mountains and surrounding desert. When we were about 100 miles from the ReZ my comrades told me to look up ahead. What I seen was these huge mountains that streched from East to West, taking up most of the forefront horizon. The thing is is that I could hardly see them becasue of the smog that they were (are) covered in...I mean smog like you would expect to see in LA or NYC, not the middle of the desert in NM.
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Jan 05 2007
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TakeBackTheLand Update: Shantytown Support Grows |
Greetings: As you are aware, the Umoja Village Shantytown, home to about 40 otherwise homeless people is under raid-watch. On January 11, 2007 the City of Miami Commission will vote on a new ordinance which would outlaw the shantytown. In classic Miami style politics, when the housing crisis boils over, instead of passing a law which deals with housing, they are passing a law to keep us from talking about the housing crisis. As we build our campaign to fight this overt attack on the shantytown and the continuation of cruel policies against the poor and homeless, we are picking up support.
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Jan 06 2007
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2nd Annual South Florida Radical Activist Conference: January 5-7 |
The location for this year's SFRAC is the Wallflower Gallery in downtown Miami, which is an amazing center for local art, culture, and activism. The Fri. show will be there from 5pm-12pm ($7 at the door) and Sat. and Sun. workshops/skillshares will be from 11pm-7pm each day.
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Jan 06 2007
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Covering their faces in order to be seen |
The Chiapas-based rebels open an autonomous village to international visitors.
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Jan 06 2007
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Audio of Anarchist John Zerzan @ Laughing Horse Books |
Tonight, more than a hundred people showed to see anarchist John Zerzan speak at Laughing Horse Books. John Spoke for over just half an hour, sharing books he recommended, and reading from some prepared material with the crowd. Afterward there was a give and take Q&A for about an hour an a half.
The bookstore became so full as the talk continue that about two dozen people had to be turned away at the door due to the lack of any room what so ever (not even standing room was left). For those of you who missed out here is an audio recording from start to finish.
The bookstore became so full as the talk continue that about two dozen people had to be turned away at the door due to the lack of any room what so ever (not even standing room was left). For those of you who missed out here is an audio recording from start to finish.
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Jan 06 2007
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Corporate Tyranny: Gannett Attempts to Quash Labor Struggle at Democrat and Chronicle |
On December 1st, the Newspaper Guild of Rochester voted 51 to 4 against the Democrat and Chronicle’s “final, firm and best” offer in a recent exchange in the 14 year old labor struggle.
In response to the vote, Gannett Corporation, the owner of the D&C, sent the union a letter on December 6th, in which Wendell Van Lare, Gannett's senior vice president for labor relations, stated that, “it is the Company’s view that we are at a good faith bargaining impasse,” and further that because of this “good faith impasse”, as the company calls it, they will “implement such portions of the final, firm and best offer as we deem appropriate,” by January 1st, 2007. The company stated it would decline further negotiations. read more>>
In response to the vote, Gannett Corporation, the owner of the D&C, sent the union a letter on December 6th, in which Wendell Van Lare, Gannett's senior vice president for labor relations, stated that, “it is the Company’s view that we are at a good faith bargaining impasse,” and further that because of this “good faith impasse”, as the company calls it, they will “implement such portions of the final, firm and best offer as we deem appropriate,” by January 1st, 2007. The company stated it would decline further negotiations. read more>>
Additional Information: City Paper coverage by Krestia DeGeorge: The Guild and Gannett (Scroll down) and Gannett Stiffs the D&C Newsroom | Why I Quit the D&C | Rochester Paper's Union Becomes 2nd to Question Gannett's 'Info Center'
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Jan 06 2007
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Memorial Planned for Local Activist Eric Weinberger |
Eric Weinberger, a lifelong activist and organizer in the civil rights, anti–nuclear, and anti–war movements, died on December 15, 2006. Eric was best known in Boston for his work with Food Not Bombs, an organization which provides free food to the hungry year–round in public parks. Eric will be remembered by many people for many things, but throughout it all he carried himself with dignity and an extreme humbleness. He devoted his entire life to working for justice, easing the hardships of others, and serving as a mentor and inspiration to many younger activists.
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Jan 06 2007
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Martial Law in Baja, Mexico! |
De-facto martial law now exists in the northwest corner of Baja state. Over 3,000 troops and federal officers have moved into the region, disarming the entire 2,300 Tijuana police force. Check points on the major roads and highways are manned by armed, nervous, young men with dark skins (the poor, mostly indigenous youth, are the few who can't buy their way out of compulsory military service).
As my lover (a Mexican national) and I drive through check-points, with machine guns pointed at our heads; as we walk the city streets swarming with armed troops, stopping people at will, we are saddened for the future of this wonderful country. The brutality of militarization, unleashed against peasants in Atenco, then workers, teachers and the poor in Oaxaca, has now come north. Young soldiers from Durango can now look across the fence at young soldiers from the California national guard.
As my lover (a Mexican national) and I drive through check-points, with machine guns pointed at our heads; as we walk the city streets swarming with armed troops, stopping people at will, we are saddened for the future of this wonderful country. The brutality of militarization, unleashed against peasants in Atenco, then workers, teachers and the poor in Oaxaca, has now come north. Young soldiers from Durango can now look across the fence at young soldiers from the California national guard.
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Jan 06 2007
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Western Mass Indymedia Workshop & Film Screening |
On Saturday, January 13, from 2 to 6pm the Western Mass. Indymedia Center will be holding a media workshop and film screening at the Media Education Foundation, 60 Masonic Street, Northampton, Massachusetts. A special screening of the new documentary ((i)) will set the stage for understanding what Indymedia is all about.
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Jan 07 2007
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Pinnalce Group LLC New York's Evil Empire? |
I saw it firsthand yesterday. Walking into a building with a friend and community activist of the area that is owned by the Pinnacle Group LLC, I saw the conditions that tenants are living in within the Morrison-Soundview Avenues area of the Bronx. The Pinnalce Group owns an entire strip of buildings not far from the 6 subway train stop. What is being done to the tenants of these buildings must end. The former Attorney General seems to have been investigating and I hope that investigation will continue under the new Attorney General Andrew Cuomo.
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Jan 07 2007
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Demonstration in Solidarity With Mapuche Struggles |
Nearly a dozen people demonstrated outside of the Astor Place Benetton store in NYC two days ago. After angrily entering the store and being kicked out, the demonstrators set up a picket outside of the Benetton. Flyers were distributed and conversations started with shoppers, with the aim of disrupting business.
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Jan 07 2007
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City Drops Lawsuit Against Journalist Jamie Kalven—Bond Case Settled |
The Hyde Park Herald reported on December 20th that the City of Chicago had dropped its lawsuit against local journalist and community organizer Jamie Kalven. Kalven was being subpoenaed by the City for his notes and materials regarding a police brutality case on the South Side of the city.
Kalven wrote about and interviewed Diane Bond, a Stateway Gardens resident, who was repeatedly sexually assaulted and harassed by police in what the lawsuit against the City calls a “pattern of abuse” that started sometime in April 2003 and ended sometime in March 2004. His writing is featured on a website that documents life in Chicago’s public housing called The View from the Ground and his story about Bond can be found in a 17-part series called “Kicking the Pigeon”.
On December 15th, City lawyers and Bond’s lawyer, Craig Futterman, reached a tentative settlement that awarded Bond $150,000 in damages and subsequently ended the City’s lawsuit against Kalven.
Chicago Indymedia Coverage: Journalist Resists City Subpoena | Chicago Community Journalism Project Returns, Faces Subpoena
Additional Information: From the Invisible Institute: Bond Case Settled | Hyde Park Herald .pdf: City Drops Lawsuit Against Local Journalist | Restoring the View | Chicago Reader: He Walks the Line
Kalven wrote about and interviewed Diane Bond, a Stateway Gardens resident, who was repeatedly sexually assaulted and harassed by police in what the lawsuit against the City calls a “pattern of abuse” that started sometime in April 2003 and ended sometime in March 2004. His writing is featured on a website that documents life in Chicago’s public housing called The View from the Ground and his story about Bond can be found in a 17-part series called “Kicking the Pigeon”.
On December 15th, City lawyers and Bond’s lawyer, Craig Futterman, reached a tentative settlement that awarded Bond $150,000 in damages and subsequently ended the City’s lawsuit against Kalven.
Chicago Indymedia Coverage: Journalist Resists City Subpoena | Chicago Community Journalism Project Returns, Faces Subpoena
Additional Information: From the Invisible Institute: Bond Case Settled | Hyde Park Herald .pdf: City Drops Lawsuit Against Local Journalist | Restoring the View | Chicago Reader: He Walks the Line
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Jan 07 2007
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Stop Divine Strake 2007 |
Here We Go, Again! The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has again announced plans to detonate a 700-pound test at the Nevada Test Site: Divine Strake Part II.
The DTRA completed a revised Environmental Assessment (EA) in the middle of the holiday season and are ready to "drop the bomb." This revised assesment ignores Governor Guinn's request for a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and the valid concerns many people have regarding the safety of the test.
We want to stop this test – because it will kick-up radioactive fallout from the Test Site floor, because it will help to develop a nuclear bunker-buster that will support more warmaking, and because it violates Western Shoshone land rights.
The DTRA is holding "open houses" in select cities rather than having public hearings, contrary to what they told our elected officials last spring they would do. Read More... | Shundahai Network Comments | Revised Environmental Assessment
Citizen Alert | Nevada Desert Experience
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Jan 07 2007
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Pres. Ford Legacy: Nixon’s “Above the Law” Pardon & Kennedy Assassination Cover-up |
President Gerald Ford who never authored a single bill has been described as a pencil pusher in Congress on the appropriations committee. Eulogy after eulogy given by his fellow politicians remarked how good and honest Ford had been. A typical quote, "In a soaring tribute to a modest man, Gerald R. Ford was remembered for bringing the ordinary virtues of decency, integrity and humility to mend a broken government after the pain of war and scandal."
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Jan 07 2007
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Coming Home, Stronger Than Before, Pt. 1 |
A panel discussion which took place on December 12th at St. Dominic Catholic School in Lakeview. LSU Hurricane Center scientist Ivor van Heerden, on what a comprehensive coastal protection plan should contain, including both coastal restoration projects and stronger levee systems. 9:30, 4.5 mb, 64 kbps.
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Jan 07 2007
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Left Behind: The Story of the New Orleans Public Schools |
“Left Behind: The Story of the New Orleans Public Schools” documents a school system which had a dropout rate as high as 70 percent. The last pre-screening of the film will be Wed. 1/10. More information at NEWORLEANSLEFTBEHIND.COM. A conversation with Vincent Morelli, a writer, producer, and co-director of the film (along with writer Jason Berry and executive producer Bobby Moresco). 24:17, 11.5 mb, 64 kbps.
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Jan 07 2007
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Community Congress II report, pt. 1 |
Notwithstanding the highest turnout of any UNOP meeting thus far, the second Community Congress ironically lent an air of legitimacy to a process which remains obscure. Although citizens expressed their belief that it is essential they be allowed to participate in the plans to rebuild their city, many complained about the fact that they still have no sense about how the Unified New Orleans Plan process will take their input into consideration in the final citywide master plan scheduled to be released in January. Citizens may not be savvy enough to know how to work within the rarified circles of political deal makers at the local, state, and federal levels in order to achieve their goals. Almost without exception, however, citizens from various neighborhoods, of various backgrounds, races, education, and experience, are generally far better informed than public officials about what’s happening in their neighborhoods, and speak passionately about how government is failing them, because they’re living and feeling the post-Katrina crisis every minute of their lives. A conversation with Rev. Lois Dejean, Deborah Davenport, and Joan Smith. 27:43, 13.6 mb, 64 kbps.
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Jan 07 2007
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Mass Demonstration in Washington DC on January 27 |
United for Peace and Justice (1500 organizations) is teaming with over 500 additional groups to march on Congress to insist the US get out of Iraq. Massive numbers are expected to rally and march around the Capital on January 27 at the start of a 3-day event.
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Jan 07 2007
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Hanging Saddam: Don Bush Eliminates A Witness |
The NY Times today published a shameless article in which it attempts to wipe the blood from Bush's hands, claiming it was the "Iraqi Government" (wink, wink) who wanted to hang Saddam, not the Foreign Occupier.
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Jan 07 2007
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Voices With Vision 2007-01-04 |
As the official count of US soldiers killed in Iraq reaches 3000, and hundreds of thousands of Iraqis have been killed, maimed, or wounded by US troops and their allies, we bring you this Special on War and Elections...
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Jan 07 2007
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Scientists' Report Documents ExxonMobil’s Tobacco-like Disinformation Campaign on Global Warming Science |
Along with Government interference in reports and speeches by it's own scientists, this article helps to explain why Americans are not marching in the streets about climate change.
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Jan 07 2007
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Jan6 Die-In Report Back |
The main "Die-In" where everyone laid down all together only lasted about 45 seconds. Fortunately some people thought this was absurd and continued to lay down for at least the next 15 minutes before I left. Otherwise disappointing but images can be powerful. Any photos?
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Jan 07 2007
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Fouad Kaady’s 29th Birthday |
On Monday, Fouad would have been twenty nine years old, and presumably enjoying his new found career as a real estate salesman. He would still be the loving son, brother, friend, and human being that so many here have reported about.
That did not happen. Instead, he was cruelly tortured and murdered by the fascist tools of the corporate state, Officer Bergin (Sandy Police) and Deputy Willard (Clackamas County Sheriff.
That did not happen. Instead, he was cruelly tortured and murdered by the fascist tools of the corporate state, Officer Bergin (Sandy Police) and Deputy Willard (Clackamas County Sheriff.
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Jan 07 2007
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Neo-Nazi leader arrested on child porn charges |
Kevin Alfred Strom, a major American neo-Nazi leader for almost 20 years, was arrested by federal agents in Virginia Thursday night and charged with possession of child pornography and witness tampering.
Court records indicate federal agents found pornographic pictures had been on Strom's computer hard drive between October 2005 and last August. Strom was also charged with trying to intimidate an unnamed witness against him.
Strom, founder of the National Vanguard white supremacist group, took a "leave of absence" from his post as leader of that group last July 18, citing "health and family matters."
Court records indicate federal agents found pornographic pictures had been on Strom's computer hard drive between October 2005 and last August. Strom was also charged with trying to intimidate an unnamed witness against him.
Strom, founder of the National Vanguard white supremacist group, took a "leave of absence" from his post as leader of that group last July 18, citing "health and family matters."
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Jan 07 2007
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Surviving Domestic Violence: It’s all about who you know |
Wouldn't it be nice if we all got the personalized attention and services (and apparent allocation of resources) that the self-described "influence peddlers" - and their damsels in distress - receive as a matter of course?
But I guess if you want to survive domestic violence, or be protected from harassment and abuse, it's all about who you know.
But I guess if you want to survive domestic violence, or be protected from harassment and abuse, it's all about who you know.
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Jan 07 2007
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the super happy anarcho fun pages [number 8] |
the 8th issue of The Super Happy Anarcho Fun Pages, a free seasonal comics zine, has been released, to much fanfare and rejoicement.
Including an introduction to the gift economy, critiques of capitalism, communism, and pretty much everything that comes across our path. The Super Happy Anarcho Fun Pages can be downloaded freely from our website, http://www.tangledwilderness.org and printed out and enjoyed and distributed.
Including an introduction to the gift economy, critiques of capitalism, communism, and pretty much everything that comes across our path. The Super Happy Anarcho Fun Pages can be downloaded freely from our website,
http://www.tangledwilderness.org and printed out and enjoyed and distributed.
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Jan 07 2007
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Reporters and Activists Remain Under Order to Take Stand in Court-Martial |
On Jan. 4th, Lt. Ehren Watada sat before a military judge in Ft. Lewis, WA, for a pre-trial hearing that defined what will be admissible during the court-martial which begins on Feb. 5th. Watada's defense attorney, Eric Seitz, argued that "the legality of the Iraq War is not merely a political question. Lt. Watada's specific intent was to avoid unlawful actions in Iraq... For the sake of due process, we need the opportunity to raise this issue." The Army's lead prosecutor, Captain Daniel Kuecker, repeatedly defended his subpoenas of civilian reporters Sarah Olson and Gregg Kakesako, and anti-war activists Phan Nguyen and Gerri Haynes, as "relevant" and "admissible" for the prosecution. These reporters and activists remain under order to take the stand on Feb. 5th. Report and photos Meanwhile, Iraq Veterans Against the War Deployed established "Camp Resistance", an encampment outside the gates of Ft. Lewis to support Lt. Watada that will remain through the upcoming court-martial. Photos
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Jan 07 2007
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Area Veterans, Religious Leaders Tell Rep. Matsui and Congress to Stop Iraq War Funding |
At a news conference in front of the Federal Courthouse in Sacramento on January 4, members of the Sacramento Coalition to End the War launched a campaign to pressure Representative Doris Matsui and Congress to stop funding the Iraq occupation.
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Jan 07 2007
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Pro-Reproductive Rights Actions to Oppose "Walk for Life" on January 20th |
Saturday, January 20th, 2007 will be the third annual large, broad-based day of protest against the "Walk for Life" in San Francisco. Bay Area residents will be celebrating the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision, which legalized a woman's right to have an abortion in the US. The kick-off rally begins at 10:30 a.m. at Pier 5 (on Embarcadero near Market Street); followed at 11:30 a.m. by a multi-issue counter-demonstration to the "Walk for Life" route along the Embarcadero waterfront; and ending with a community rally at Aquatic Park with more speakers, music and art. BACORR will also host a post-rally gathering at New Valencia Hall at 1908 Mission St (at 15th Street) in San Francisco at 4:00 p.m.
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Jan 07 2007
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Left Blogosphere vs Major Media |
Ove Christmas vacation, A family member told me not to worry about the war in Iraq as Democrats were now in the majority and public opinion was clearly on our side. Is it true that we can now relax and that the war will inevitably wind down? I wish I could say yes.
A couple of statements were made in a recent Washington Post editorial (All highlights mine):
A couple of statements were made in a recent Washington Post editorial (All highlights mine):
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Jan 08 2007
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Memphis Activists to Demonstrate for Media Reform next Saturday |
Media is the issue for a big national meeting Memphis is hosting Friday January 12th through Sunday the 14th. Media scholars and activists from around the U.S. and some foreign countries will come to the 2007 National Conference for Media Reform. (The full conference description and details are updated at the Free Press web site, "www.freepress.net.") On Saturday, many of the conference participants will go to the Memphis Federal Building plaza downtown to demonstrate for media policy reforms, and to talk to more Memphis citizens and the working press about key media issues.
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Jan 08 2007
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Letter to a Young Marine, Days before His Deployment to Iraq |
Peter Laufer writes, "This is an open letter I wrote to the son of one of my best friends after I heard he was being deployed to the Iraq War. As the author of Mission Rejected: U.S. Soldiers Who Say No to Iraq, I felt obligated to make sure he knew his alternatives and to do all I could to dissuade him from boarding the outbound plane. I failed, but perhaps publishing the letter may influence others."
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Jan 08 2007
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Bring the War Home! Activites for Activists |
There are creative ways to use technology to bring the war home to the USA. Because corporate media refuses to show people what their tax money is doing to a country, a city, a people and a child, we have a responsibility to act creatively.
Technology has come a long way. In fact you could argue that we have not even caught up with the technology from 50 years ago. New technology is being employed in creative ways to bring the war home in a visceral and inexpensive manner. I'll list two examples I've seen. I bet you can create some of your own.
Technology has come a long way. In fact you could argue that we have not even caught up with the technology from 50 years ago. New technology is being employed in creative ways to bring the war home in a visceral and inexpensive manner. I'll list two examples I've seen. I bet you can create some of your own.
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Jan 08 2007
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3 Common Ground Volunteers Arrested at Woodlands Complex |
Three Common Ground volunteers were arrested Friday evening by two New Orleans police officers. The three had spent the day at the Woodlands apartment complex in Algiers helping residents who were being evicted move out of their homes. One of the officers was previously involved in another controversial incident at the Woodlands.
"Common Ground is concerned that this incident represents a new trend in police harassment of Common Ground volunteers. The fact that the same police officer, Officer Lusk was involved in both events is troubling and an unlikely coincidence," says Sakura Kone' of Common Ground Relief.
"Common Ground is concerned that this incident represents a new trend in police harassment of Common Ground volunteers. The fact that the same police officer, Officer Lusk was involved in both events is troubling and an unlikely coincidence," says Sakura Kone' of Common Ground Relief.
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Jan 08 2007
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Portlanders help Guantanamo Detainees |
Here in Portland, Oregon several lawyers are defending Guantanamo detainees, including Adel Hamad. Since the passage of the Military Commissions Act of 2006 in September, with the elimination of the writ of habeas corpus, these lawyers hands are tied and the detainees have no legal recourse. Three of us, a physician, a teacher and a web developer have been working with these public defenders, who have provided us with all the unclassified materials on Adel Hamad's case. These lawyers have gone to the extraordinary length of traveling to Afghanistan and Pakistan to verify his story and film video testimony. We have developed a website with many ways you can become involved and engaged around this issue. Please visit http://www.projecthamad.org to meet Adel Hamad and learn more. Also go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5E3w7ME6Fs to see the compelling video the lawyers compiled on Adel Hamad's behalf.
http://www.projecthamad.org to meet Adel Hamad and learn more. Also go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5E3w7ME6Fs to see the compelling video the lawyers compiled on Adel Hamad's behalf.
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Jan 08 2007
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Die-In protest |
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Jan 08 2007
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1,000 People Spell Out "IMPEACH!" In Pelosi's District |
January 6, 2007 -- Over 1000 people gathered in Nancy Pelosi's district, on Ocean Beach in San Francisco, to spell out the message "IMPEACH!" "America is a great country," said event organizer Brad Newsham, a local cab driver and author. "But President Bush has betrayed our faith. He mislead us into a disastrous war, and is trampling on our Constitution. He has to go. Now. I hope Nancy Pelosi is listening today."
A majority of Americans share Newsham's sentiments. A 2006 Zogby poll found that 52% of Americans agreed with the statement: "If President Bush wiretapped American citizens without the approval of a judge, do you agree or disagree that Congress should consider holding him accountable through impeachment?"
A majority of Americans share Newsham's sentiments. A 2006 Zogby poll found that 52% of Americans agreed with the statement: "If President Bush wiretapped American citizens without the approval of a judge, do you agree or disagree that Congress should consider holding him accountable through impeachment?"
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Jan 08 2007
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The 50 Day Sean Bell Vigil in Queens |
It is a 50day, 24hour, 7day a week vigil, begun on Monday, January 1st, and concluding on Monday, February 19th. I think it obvious that the 50 days symbolize the 50 bullets fired at Sean Bell and his friends.
The vigil is taking place directly across from the 103rd precinct, on 168th Street, right off Jamaica Avenue and 91st Avenue, in the Jamaica, Queens section of New York City.
The vigil is taking place directly across from the 103rd precinct, on 168th Street, right off Jamaica Avenue and 91st Avenue, in the Jamaica, Queens section of New York City.
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Jan 08 2007
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Indypendent Exceeds Year-End Fundraising Goal! |
Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, The Indypendent has exceeded its year-end fundraising goal of $10,000. Donations were matched in part by a grant from Omidyar.net. Your support enables us to continue printing the Indy and fostering gutsy, award-winning, independent journalism. We also want to give a shout out to those who decided to give on a monthly basis, this secured support helps us plan for the future. If you haven’t given yet, see indypendent.org. Every dollar given through Jan. 31 will be matched.
Again, from the bottom of our collective hearts, thank you!
The Staff of The Indypendent
Again, from the bottom of our collective hearts, thank you!
The Staff of The Indypendent
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Jan 08 2007
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Big Media Threat to Democracy |
Despite the endless selection of TV channels, newspapers and magazines we now have, it seems strange that most mainstream media content just keeps getting worse and worse. Take, for example, the recent election coverage. Despite the fact that few generations have been faced with so many critical issues, most of the news coverage was focused on polls, campaign tactics and punditry rather than a real discussion of the substantive differences between candidates and the public interest implications of their policy positions.
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Jan 08 2007
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Victory for Umoja Village! Anti-shantytown ordinance is pulled |
Day 76 TakeBackTheLand: After initially sponsoring the item, city commissioner Michelle Spence-Jones pulled the "anti-shantytown" ordinance from the January 11 agenda. This means the new law will not be voted on and, therefore, the Umoja Village Shantytown is safe- for now. Take Back the Land is organizing a press conference to announce the legal victory and next steps. See details at the end of this message.
There is no two ways about it: this is a clear and major victory for Take Back the Land and our supporters. This item was pulled due to the tremendous and overwhelming opposition to the ordinance. Read more
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Jan 08 2007
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Counter protestors drown out US Border Watch |
About 50 immigrant rights supporters gathered at Airline&Aldine Bender Saturday, January 6 to protest the US Border Watch, a group that has been video taping day laborer sites in order to gather "national security" intelligence. The group claims they report all immigration violations to I.C.E., or Immigration and Customs Enforcement... [more photos]
El Independiente Photo/Video Coverage: Si Se Pudo!
Audio Coverage: Pedro: January 6 Protest | Rachel: Day Labor Site Face Off, Debate at Aldine/Airline, Interview with Former Day Laborer, Un jornalero en sus propias palabras, US Border Watch Talking Points
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Jan 09 2007
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Prisoner Hunger Strike! |
Prisoners on Death Row in Texas have started another hunger strike beginning on January 1, 2007. After a first attempt where not too many people joined in and only the man who called the strike, Steven Woods of the DRIVE movement, lasted 27 days. He decided to end the strike, regroup, organize, and have a go at it again. With more planning this time and preparation, he hoped more prisoners would join the nonviolent protest. Since the beginning of the year, approximately 15 men have been participating in the strike, subsisting only on water. Steven issued this statement at the beginning of the initial fast in October describing the conditions at the Polunsky unit and why they are going on strike. "For the past several years, I and a few hundred others have been living out what can easily be called a nightmare...... Read More
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Jan 09 2007
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Fawaz Damra Disappeared |
Local spiritual leader, Imam Fawaz Damra has become the next victim of a US Government Disappearing Act. His family, friends and supporters have not heard from him in nearly a week since he was removed from a prison cell near Detroit and reportedly deported by US Imigration and Customs Enforcement to the West Bank of Palestine via Jordan.
Democracy Now! reported "A prominent Muslim leader from Ohio was deported last week by the U.S. government and hasn't been heard from since. Fawaz Damra was the former imam at Ohio's largest mosque, the Islamic Center of Cleveland. In 2004 he was jailed for allegedly concealing ties to the Palestinian group Islamic Jihad. The U.S. government says he was deported Thursday morning to the West Bank. But his friends and family says no one has heard from him since he was taken. Damra was not given a chance to say goodbye to his wife or his three daughters who were born in the United States."
Attorney Mo Abdrabbon, spoke on Blackout News about the legal struggle to fight Damra's deportation and "de-naturalization" and what supporters are doing to determin Fawaz's whereabouts.
Friends and supporters are sending out an Emergency Appeal to help Imam Fawaz Damra and his family. Revs. Werner Lange and John Beatty have both sent out messages urging anyone and everyone to call attention to the US governments' latest disappearing act in its "War of Terror"
The Greater Cleveland Immigrant Support Network is holding a press conference Tuesday January 9th at the Islamic Center of Greater Cleveland 6059 W.130th St starting at Noon. Read More>>
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Jan 09 2007
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Free Skool Radio News: Winter 2006 |
The student reporters of Radio Journalism 101 present, Free Skool Radio News, a collection of reports, interviews and sounds from just a handful of the dozens of classes and workshops offered through Free Skool Santa Cruz. We'll hear about the Santa Cruz Trash Orchestra, Improv Contact Dance, Spanish Conversation, Tray Boarding, the Punk Sewing Circle and more. This program is the final project of Radio Journalism 101, Free Skool class on the basics of broadcast news production, facilitated by V-Man.
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Jan 09 2007
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MEXA visits and maintains memorial to deceased immigrants |
A few members of MEXA at the University of Houston main campus took at trip out into Victoria Texas this past weekend to remember the 19 immigrants who passed away on May 14, 2006. The memorial was also fixed and cleaned along with the building of 10 crosses on the ground.
It was a rainy morning as several of us loaded a van and headed out to Victoria Texas. After getting lost a few times and after a few Chicano U-turns we arrived at the memorial of the 19 immigrants who passed away inside an 18-wheeler as they made their way to Houston, TX. The purpose of the trip was to clean up and update the memorial by adding new flowers and crosses along with toys and other items. However this trip soon turned into an incredible journey because the images were to much to handle. After arriving and begining the hard work of cleaning with rakes and fixing objects, along with building 10 white crosses on the ground ; we all took time to think about the tragedy of the story. When the stomach rumbles for food and there is no work in town the danger and fear are no obstacle to the immigrant who embarcks on a journey to America.
[Full Story and Photos]
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Jan 09 2007
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Will Jimmy Carter’s Book Liberate the Palestinians? |
The year 2006 was another hell on earth for the Palestinian people, especially in Gaza. Is there any hope for relief? Harriet Beecher Stowe’s book, “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” led to freedom for African-Americans. Question: Will ex-President Jimmy Carter’s tome, “Palestine Peace Not Apartheid,” play a comparable role in ending the evil of the Israeli Occupation?
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Jan 09 2007
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"Surge" Protectors: Demonstrate at Military Recruiting Office(s)! |
The invasion and occupation of Iraq is nearing the four year mark. There is no end in sight to the violence. Experts have stated repeatedly that there is "no military solution," yet the Idiot Bush is suggesting a "surge" of troops. (This actually includes re-re-re-using some of the same troops who are there already.)
Come take a stand with others in protest at the military recruiting office at 1317 N.E. Broadway on Tuesday evening from 5-ish to 6:30-ish. This demonstration has been ongoing for 18 months, in spite of dark, cold, wet, and illness of some of the regular attendees.
Come take a stand with others in protest at the military recruiting office at 1317 N.E. Broadway on Tuesday evening from 5-ish to 6:30-ish. This demonstration has been ongoing for 18 months, in spite of dark, cold, wet, and illness of some of the regular attendees.
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Jan 09 2007
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January 12th Immigrant Rights Protest at SF Federal Building |
On Friday, January 12th, there will be a picket line at the Federal Building in San Francisco (450 Golden Gate) from 4:00pm to 7:00pm. Protesters will demand: an end to the immigration raids now; freedom for all detained workers; the return of jobs to all those detained; the right for all undocumented immigrants to unionize; and "a General and Unconditional Amnesty for all!"
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Jan 09 2007
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Is the Bush Administration Planning a Nuclear Holocaust? |
At no point since the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6th, 1945, has humanity been closer to the unthinkable, a nuclear holocaust which could potentially spread, in terms of radioactive fallout, over a large part of the Middle East.
All the safeguards of the Cold War era, which categorized the nuclear bomb as "a weapon of last resort" have been scrapped. "Offensive" military actions using nuclear warheads are now described as acts of "self-defense".
The distinction between tactical nuclear weapons and the conventional battlefield arsenal has been blurred. America's new nuclear doctrine is based on "a mix of strike capabilities". The latter, which specifically applies to the Pentagon's planned aerial bombing of Iran, envisages the use of nukes in combination with conventional weapons. [more]
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Jan 09 2007
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Portland Pioneer Square Die-In |
Attended by about 150 people, the Die-In at Pioneer Square on Saturday, January 6, 2007 honored the 3000 U.S. soldiers and 650,000 Iraqis who have died in Iraq.
After a few brief words about the reason for the gathering, the moderator said that, though these symbolic events are necessary, people must do more than this to exert their will. There were people present with the names of our Congressional delegation pined to their shirts who were handing out postcards addressed to each individual Senator or Representative. The Moderator urged everyone present to follow through and contact their representative and let them know their feelings about this Occupation.
Photos: Die-In protest || Photos from the Die-In
Audio: Jan6 Die-In Report Back
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Jan 09 2007
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Will Nancy Pelosi Remember Her Populist Roots? |
Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, returned to her Baltimore roots on Jan. 5, 2007. Part of a street near her old home was renamed in her honor. Pelosi said that she’s committed to making the “future better” for America. She is also on record demanding a “political solution” to the Iraqi War and labeling Dubya’s Iraqi War surge scheme as “flawed.” Will Pelosi do the right thing and also seek the impeachment of Dubya and V.P. Dick Cheney?
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Jan 09 2007
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Boston Area Residents Rally Against Proposal to Build Diesel Power Plant in Chelsea |
Area residents are preparing to rally against Chelsea Energy LLC, an affiliate of Cape Wind, which has proposed the construction of a 250-megawatt diesel burning peak power plant along the Chelsea Creek, in the heart of a densely populated area adjacent to Chelsea's Burke Elementary School Complex. This prospect has united local reaidents, city council officials, and state representatives from area communities to fight the energy giant. The proposed construction of a power plant only hundreds of feet from an elementary school in Chelsea, Massachusetts, has outraged the entire region.
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Jan 09 2007
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The US Navy: Recruiting in NYC AOL Chat Rooms? |
A quick glance at NavyRecruiterNYC profile on AOL tells us that "If you reading this profile already that means something you doing aint working for you!!! If you need school money, a new start or like myself just needed some guidance hit me up, im your girl".
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Jan 09 2007
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2006 Cyclist Memorial Ride |
Hundreds of riders turn out to remember cyclists killed in NYC at the annual memorial ride
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Jan 09 2007
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Till Deportation Do Us Part |
Now that the Republicans have lost control of Congress, perhaps legislation such as the Uniting American Families Act will finally get passed. This bill would give U.S. citizens the right to give their loved ones citizenship.
Yes, this is a right that already exists, but only if you marry someone of the opposite sex.
Yes, this is a right that already exists, but only if you marry someone of the opposite sex.
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Jan 09 2007
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CALL FOR PARTICIPATION: NYC Grassroots Media Conference - Feb 24, 2007 at New School University |
This year, the NYC Grassroots Media Conference seeks to ask: What are the common threads inherent in our global struggles for social change and how does media contribute to our understanding of the root causes of injustice faced by world communities? From educating ourselves and our government leaders to spreading our messages and recruiting broader and more diverse constituencies into our campaigns, media is central to the struggle for social justice. Therefore, the fight for better access to and representation in the media is essential for advancing peace and justice both at home and abroad.
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Jan 09 2007
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Many Reported Killed In U.S. Air Strikes on Somalia |
On January 7th, the US launched a pair of air strikes on Somalia. The strikes come just weeks after U.S.-backed Ethiopian forces invaded Somalia and overthrew the Union of Islamic Courts. The attack is the first overt U.S. military action in Somalia since American troops departed the country in 1993 following the infamous "Black Hawk Down" episode. Reports have also emerged that suggest U.S. Special Forces and CIA paramilitary teams are now directly embedded with Ethiopian forces in Somalia. Read more>>
Related: Fighting erupts in Mogadishu | Democracy Now Report | US Somali air strikes 'kill many' | United States bombing of Somali village | No threat, No attack - but US opens fire in Somalia
Previous Indybay Coverage Of Somalia: Dec-2006: Ethiopian Troops Enter Mogadishu | Aug-2006: US Backed Government Nears Collapse
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Jan 09 2007
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Berkeley curbside recyclers win IWW contract fight |
IWW Curbside Recyclers at the Berkeley Ecology Center won a small, but important victory Friday, January 5 by refusing to let management violate their IWW union contract.
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Jan 09 2007
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Protests As Taiwanese president Chen Shui-bian Visits SF |
On January 8th, Taiwanese president Chen Shui-bian arrived in San Francisco. Many from the American Chinese community turned out in front of the St. Regis Hotel to greet Chen's motorcade. The turnout of Chen loyalists and opponents appeared equally divided. Supporters wore the green of Chen's DPP political party; opponents the traditional Chinese red. His opponents, composed of Taiwanese and mainland immigrants who wish to see the eventual reunification of Taiwan with the mainland drew the most attention from passerbys and the Chinese media with their cries denouncing Chen. They were especially critical of the corruption charges that Chen has been able to narrowly elude to date.
Photos
Photos
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Jan 09 2007
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City Council to appoint Racial Profiling Committee, Weds 9:30 am |
After 8 months of pressuring and working with the city of Portland and the police bureau, the NW Constitutional Rights Center, Oregon Action and other community organizations are excited to announce that the Portland City Council will vote tomorrow to appoint a Racial Profiling Committee. The Committee will be co-chaired by Portland Police Bureau Chief Rosie Sizer and Oregon Action's (and NWCRC board member) Jo Ann Bowman. The Committee will be composed of community leaders, police representatives, and other city and state officials and institutions. Its charge will be to to monitor data collection, review internal policies, and work with community input to eliminate racial profiling.
For those of you in Portland, we urge you to come to the City Council hearing Wednesday, January 10th for the 9:30 am vote.
For those of you in Portland, we urge you to come to the City Council hearing Wednesday, January 10th for the 9:30 am vote.
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Jan 09 2007
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Action Alert: No More Prisons in VA |
No More Prisons in Virginia Fund Education and Rehabilitation Not Warehousing Join Grayson County, VA residents and prison justice organizations to stop the construction of a $100 million dollar prison along the New River.
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Jan 09 2007
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Virginia Represent: First Encounter of the Zapatista Communities with the Peoples of the World |
As the clock struck 12:00 last night hundreds of soldiers from Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN in spanish initials) and hundreds more civilians from the Zapatista civil society organizations assembled on the basketball court before the mainstage of the International Meeting between the Zapatista People and the People of the World. Around the perimeter of the zapatistas were thousands of international supporters and rebels who had come to participate in the meetings. In this crowd of internationals were representatives from organizations working in Virginia, including the Woodbridge Workers Committee, The Committee of Indigenous Solidarity, Mexicanos Sin Fronteras, The Snails Pace Collective, and Richmond Indymedia. Moments after midnight, dozens of members of the EZLN comandancia dramatically took the stage...
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Jan 10 2007
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Charges Dropped Against Gabe Meyers |
On January 8th, Gabriel Meyers walked out of court victorious when all charges from his arrest at a 2005 anti-G8 demonstration were formally dismissed by a superior court judge. The SF District Attorney's Office decided not to pursue the case because of potential witness testimony and video footage that indicated that police had unsafely sped into a crowd of demonstrators, which Meyers was part of. Prosecutors were originally saying that Gabriel Meyers was arrested that night for placing a styrofoam sign under this patrol car's wheels. Meyers was in final stages of jury selection when the decision to drop the charges was made. He had been awaiting trial for 15 months and had made some 40 court appearances in that time period. He made no statement as he left court, other than that he was glad and grateful to be free. Read Gabe's comment on indybay
Previous Coverage: Gabe Meyers Invokes Right to a Speedy Trial | Pre-trial Hearing for Gabriel Myers on July 20th | SF Grand Jury Targets G8 Protest | July 8th 2005 Anti-G8 Protest in SF
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Jan 10 2007
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PEACE CRANE MARCH FOR 3,000 SOLDIERS DEAD |
Over 200 people held vigil for the 3,006 American soldiers that have died in Iraq. At the Rogue Valley Mall, we held vigil, read the names of the Oregon soldiers killed in the War, sang peace hymnals, and marched on the sidewalk surrounding the mall with 1,000 Peace Cranes for peace.
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Jan 10 2007
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Life at America's bottom wage |
2-part feature in Christian Science Monitor profiles Oklahoma working poor: As the House considers increasing the minimum wage, a look at the realities of life at $5.15 an hour.
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Jan 10 2007
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Stop the Surge/Stop the War actions in OKC, Tulsa |
Thursday, Jan. 11 - 5: 30 pm Wednesday night President Bush is expected to make a speech calling for an escalation in Iraq. In Oklahoma, at least two communities are planning actions in protest. If you learn of any others, please post as a comment. Wednesday night President Bush is expected to make a speech calling for an escalation in Iraq. In Oklahoma, at least two communities are planning actions in protest. If you learn of any others, please post as a comment.
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Jan 10 2007
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Good things in Worcester: Happy Birthday Mike Leslie |
Happy Birthday Mike Leslie is a visionary junk shop on Pleasant St. Check it out.
Other good things in Worcester covered by Indymedia: Earn-a-Bike | YouthGROW
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Jan 10 2007
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DOD Iraqi body count outright lie: OVER 5000 US soldiers are dead from DU alone |
According to an October 2004 Dispatch from the Italian Military Health Observatory, a total of 109 Italian soldiers have died thus far due to exposure to depleted uranium. A spokesman at the Military Health Observatory, Domenico Leggiero, states "The total of 109 casualties exceeds the total number of persons dying as a consequence of road accidents. Anyone denying the significance of such data is purely acting out of ill faith, and the truth is that our soldiers are dying out there due to a lack of adequate protection against depleted uranium".
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Jan 10 2007
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Solidaridad con Oaxaca y la otra campana toma lugar en Houston |
La solidaridad con los movimientos radicales en México han estado creciendo últimamente en Houston. Después de meses de resistencia y represión enfrentados por La Asamblea Popular de los Pueblos de Oaxaca (APPO),y por el asesinato del periodista independiente Brad Will. Activistas alrededor del mundo han tomado acción en solidaridad con el pueblo de Oaxaca, localmente esto tomo lugar recientemente el 22 de diciembre en las afueras del consulado mexicano:
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Jan 10 2007
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Conmemorativa para los 19 inmigrantes |
Varios miembros de la organización MEXA ( Movimiento Estudiantil Xicano de Aztlan) de la Universidad de Houston, hicieron un viaje a Victoria, Texas este fin de semana para recordar los 19 inmigrantes que murieron en el intento al cruzar la frontera el 19 de mayo del 2003. Esta conmemorativa tuvo también como objetivo el limpiar y construir de varias cruces en simbolismo a la muerte de los inmigrantes.
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Jan 10 2007
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El Independiente lanza la voz radical desde México |
El Independiente es una hoja informativa en español que difunde material de medios libres como Houston Indymedia,Indymedia Mexico y demas banda.Se distribuye en el Suroeste de Houston,Texas. || "El Independiente" is a new independent spanish newspaper that diffuses information from independent media as Houston indymedia,Mexico Indymedia. It is distributed in the southwest of Houston.
La primera edición habla del levantamiento de Oaxaca México y de la muerte del periodista Brad Hill, Prisionero político Mumia Abu-Jamal, la huelga de los superintendentes, el periodista preso Brad Wolf y de los recursos para los hispano-hablantes que son radicales en el área de Houston.
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Jan 10 2007
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Fotografías de la contra-protesta de US Border Watch |
Aproximadamente 50 partidarios de los derechos del inmigrante se reunieron en la intersección de Airline&Aldine Bender este sábado, 6 de enero para protestar en contra de la organización anti-inmigrante US Border Watch, grupo que se dedica a intimidar a los trabajadores que esperan en las esquinas de varias avenidas y calles de la ciudad por trabajo. Esta grupo declara que están recolectando esta videografía para reportarla a la seguridad nacional del país. Este grupo declara que reportan todas las violaciones al departamento de inmigración. US Border Watch planea el continuar sus demostraciones y grabaciones videográficas todos los sábados en la misma intersección. Al igual, los contra-protestantes planean estar en el mismo lugar todos los sábados empezando a las nueve de la mañana. mas fotos
Las Protestas continúan todos los sábados a las nueve de la mañana para protestar la intimidación de US Border Watch al grabar a los trabajadores.
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Jan 10 2007
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Outing the Constitutional Criminals: Analysis-Review of Film, America: Freedom to Fascism |
The purpose of the personal income tax is to redistribute wealth upward and to control the civil society. The purpose of the Federal Reserve is to redistribute the wealth upward and to control the civil society. The receivers of the redistributed wealth and the controllers of the society are the private owners of the Federal Reserve -- not the government.
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Jan 10 2007
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"No Iran War" -- message of Nobel Peace Prize Winners during DC Visit |
January 8, 2007 -- The University of California, Center for Arms Control and Nonproliferation, National Iranian American Council and the Nobel Women’s Initiative hosted an evening dialogue entitled "REBUILDING US-IRAN RELATIONS," with Dr. Shirin Ebadi, 2003 Nobel Peace Laureate, Iranian Human Rights Lawyer, and Co-Founder of the Nobel Women’s Initiative, and *Professor Jody Williams* 1997 Nobel Peace Laureate and Co-Founder of the Nobel Women’s Initiative.
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Jan 10 2007
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Emergency Protests Against Planned Troop Escalation |
George Bush is expected to give a major policy address on Wednesday, January 10, to outline his new strategy for Iraq; it is increasingly clear that he is likely to announce that he will be sending more troops. On Thursday January 11th anti-war protests are planned across the country. In Palo Alto, community members will gather at El Camino Real and Embarcadero Road, to protest against "this amplification of an outrageous and illegal failed war that has already resulted in the deaths of over three thousand U.S. troops as well as hundreds of thousands of Iraqis". In San Francisco, there will be an antiwar march starting at 6pm at the Montgomery Bart Station. Many other protests and anti-war events are planned around the Bay Area.
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Jan 10 2007
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Narco News: AP Reporter in Oaxaca Accepts Money From Oaxacan State Government |
Associated Press correspondent in Oaxaca, Rebeca Romero, sent us an email on Sunday, January 7, and also published it on her website, ADN Sureste (“Southeast Digital News Agency”), of which she is the publisher. Her letter (and introduction to it on her website) is marked by the same shoddy qualities as her AP reports from Oaxaca during 2006 about the conflicts there. She makes vague claims that she does not document about a supposed “lynch mob climate” against her that she says was generated by Narco News, specifically by a report that she is paid by Oaxaca’s state government, which she denies. [Read More From Narco News || Complete Record of Romero's Oaxaca Reporting]
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Jan 10 2007
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Zionist attempts at silencing failed in Andover, Massachusetts |
Last night was one of the most contentions events I’ve ever done. Whoever thought that a simple talk in the library of Andover High School in a small suburb of Massachusetts would make so many headlines.
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Jan 10 2007
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Saddam on the Gallows |
His crime? Surely not the killing of his Shi'a opponents, nor his torture of Iraqis; for in the grim aftermath of these events, US envoys continued to skin and grin with him, shaking his hand (as did the then-Reagan Administration's Donald Rumsfeld), and sending him more tools of war and weapons of mass destruction.
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Jan 10 2007
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Daniel Ellsberg: “Bush is Dangerous. He has to Go!” |
Daniel Ellsberg of “Pentagon Papers” fame was one of the riveting speakers at an event at the National Press Club, in Washington, D.C., held on Jan. 4, 2007. It was sponsored by the World Can’t Wait organization. Ellsberg said that President George W. Bush and V.P. Dick Cheney have to go. He labeled Bush “dangerous!” He urged activists to push for a two pronged Congressional strategy: First, to cut off all funding for the Iraqi War; and, secondly, to investigate the serial crimes of the Bush-Cheney Gang.
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Jan 10 2007
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Military Families Speak Out: Troops Home Now |
JANUARY 10, 2007 - The US government prepares to escalate the war in Iraq at a time when public opposition to the war is now at 70%. In addition, polls of US troops show that less than half of the troops continue to support the war. A number of organizations such as Military Families Speak Out are getting the word out about a growing GI resistance movement of soldiers in Iraq that are joining the call to end the war and bring all the troops home now.
From the Newswire: Military Families Speak Out – An interview with Lisa Cantu | | 24-Hour Vigil Pics, Military Families Speak Out! | | 24 Hour Vigil Commemorating 3,000
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Jan 11 2007
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UC Santa Cruz Administration Sabotages Student-Run Career Event |
After months of wrangling with UC Santa Cruz administration, students who were planning an Ethical Career Opportunities ("ECO-7") career event for January 25th have been forced to cancel the program after the administration blocked access to the group's website for a crucial period of time. The website, removed without warning, was the primary organizing tool of the event, which would have provided much-needed job opportunities for conscientious students.
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Jan 11 2007
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Jan 11: International Day to Shut Down Guantánamo |
Cry Out -- Five Years of Imprisonment and Torture Must EndThursday January 11, 2007 is the 5th anniversary of illegal detention at Guantánamo Naval Base. Thousands of people will act together to demand an end to torture and indefinite, illegal and immoral detention of over 400 men and boys. In concerted actions from Australia and Amsterdam to Amherst and Boise and Wichita, and in more than 40 other cities around the world, citizens heed the call for an International Day of Action to Shut Down Guantánamo. Witness Against Torture Website
In Dallas, people from Bill of Rights Committee, Peace and Justice Network, Camp Casey Dallas, Women in Black, Dallas Peace Center, Amnesty International, and responsible citizens throughout the North Texas Region will gather... read more>>
Indybay Coverage | IMC-US Anti-War Coverage Archive
UPDATE -- post-action reports: Washington DC | New York City | Boston | Cleveland | Philadelphia | England
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Jan 11 2007
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Bush’s Iraq Strategy for 2007: A Second Civil War ... Or Genocide? |
After all the study groups and reports, an electoral repudiation, months of deliberation and hundreds of thousands dead, the Bush administration Iraq policy debate boils down to this: choosing between genocide against Sunni Arabs – a strategy known as the “80 percent solution” – or fomenting a second civil war, this one a Shia-on- Shia death match.
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Jan 11 2007
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No to Iraq Escalation |
Bush Escalates Iraq War – Houstonians Protest
In his January 10, 2007 speech, George W. Bush announced that he has decided to escalate the war in Iraq. He said, “I have committed more than 20,000 additional American troops to Iraq.” Houstonians have planned a number of protests against the war and detentions of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. These events include:
1) Close Guantanamo Rally, Amnesty International
Mecom Fountain, Thursday Jan. 11, 12noon
2) Bush Says More – We Say No, World Can’t Wait
Mickey Leland Federal Buidling 1919 Smith St, Thursday Jan. 11, 4:30 – 6:00 pm
3) 3,000 Solider Memorial, Veterans for Peace
Memorial Park, Sun Jan. 14 at 4:30pm, Jan. 15 and 16 at sundown, and Jan 17 from 5:00 - 6:00pm
Please post any additional information about actions. Also see Nick's translation of Bush's speech.
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Jan 11 2007
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“Does Education Breed Segregation?” |
Colleges are often though of as a bastion for liberal ideas but how does that translate outside of the campus and into non academic communities once a student graduates. Joining a college environment, which tends to be somewhat more integrated than the general community, does it mean that college graduates will desire to be in a multi-racial integrated neighborhood or send their children to a diverse school? Well, according to one study conducted at Houston’s Rice University, the answer is no for white parents. Instead the greater the education of white parents, the more likely they will remove their children from public schools as the percentage of black students increases. Independent Producer, Selina Musuta interviewed the co-author of the study, Dr. Michael Emerson, a Professor of SOciology of Rice University and the University’s Director of the Center on Race, Religion, and Urban Life. Interview with Co-author of “Does Education Breed Segregation?” Study Audio
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Jan 11 2007
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Local Actions Against the War in Iraq |
Rally at the Clock Tower in Santa Cruz
Corner of Water and Pacific
Thursday, Jan 11 2007
6:00 PM - 7PMA local activist writes, "It has been clear for weeks now that George Bush was planning to escalate the war in Iraq. 20,000 troops will be the beginning, not the end of this escalation, if he is not stopped. All around the country, emergency rallies and actions are being organized on Thursday, January 11th in response."
Protests are taking place in Santa Cruz at 6pm at the Clock Tower, in Salinas at 6pm in front of the Alisa St. Post office and in Monterey at 4pm across from McDonald's, 610 Del Monte Ave. In addition to the rallies on Thursday, other peace activists are staging a "human sign" protest "against this monstrous war." On Saturday, at 1pm, they will meet at Cowell's Beach (Santa Cruz Main Wharf) and will form a sign on the beach saying "Out of Iraq."
There's also a series of upcoming educational events at UC Santa Cruz, including a speech on Wed., Jan 17 entitled "The Crisis of Iraq as America's Crisis" from Middle East historian Juan Cole, and a "Back from Iraq" presentation from independent journalist Dahr Jamail on Wed., Jan 24.
Many other anti-war events are planned around the Bay Area, including protests in San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, El Cerrito, Mountain View, San Jose, Petaluma, San Rafael, and Benicia. See Indybay's Anti-War page for more information.
Corner of Water and Pacific
Thursday, Jan 11 2007
6:00 PM - 7PMA local activist writes, "It has been clear for weeks now that George Bush was planning to escalate the war in Iraq. 20,000 troops will be the beginning, not the end of this escalation, if he is not stopped. All around the country, emergency rallies and actions are being organized on Thursday, January 11th in response."
Protests are taking place in Santa Cruz at 6pm at the Clock Tower, in Salinas at 6pm in front of the Alisa St. Post office and in Monterey at 4pm across from McDonald's, 610 Del Monte Ave. In addition to the rallies on Thursday, other peace activists are staging a "human sign" protest "against this monstrous war." On Saturday, at 1pm, they will meet at Cowell's Beach (Santa Cruz Main Wharf) and will form a sign on the beach saying "Out of Iraq."
There's also a series of upcoming educational events at UC Santa Cruz, including a speech on Wed., Jan 17 entitled "The Crisis of Iraq as America's Crisis" from Middle East historian Juan Cole, and a "Back from Iraq" presentation from independent journalist Dahr Jamail on Wed., Jan 24.
Many other anti-war events are planned around the Bay Area, including protests in San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda, El Cerrito, Mountain View, San Jose, Petaluma, San Rafael, and Benicia. See Indybay's Anti-War page for more information.
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Jan 11 2007
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Portland Recruiters Enlist the Help of Counter-protestor |
In an apparent attempt at counter protest, the military recruiters brought out an effigy of the inflated military budget.
The recruiting tool, most likely designed to capture the attention of elementary school aged children, was seen bobbing along with a makeshift cardboard sign stating, "Support our troops." The peace demonstrators were well equipped with complementary signs including, "Support the troops - bring 'em home!", "Killing is Wrong", and "Money for jobs and schools, not war".
The recruiting tool, most likely designed to capture the attention of elementary school aged children, was seen bobbing along with a makeshift cardboard sign stating, "Support our troops." The peace demonstrators were well equipped with complementary signs including, "Support the troops - bring 'em home!", "Killing is Wrong", and "Money for jobs and schools, not war".
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Jan 11 2007
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Washington County Peace Vigil 1-10-07 |
My flash did not work tonight, so sorry for the quality.About 45 people gathered tonight at 5th and Hall in Beaverton tonight.The November elections showed that the country wanted out of Iraq.Tonight, Chimpy announced more soldiers are being put into Iraq and an additional carrier strike force is being sent into the area.My son is part of that carrier group.Please send your elected representative a note,fax or e-mail to oppose this escalation.Chimpy's policy has failed.Hold everyone accountable for this debacle.It is imperative to cut off the funding of this illegal occupation.Please join us every wednesday evening and support any public demonstration against this administration and any politician who supports it.
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Jan 11 2007
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Another Neighborhood Targeted by the Affluent? |
Remember when St. Johns and North Portland used to be considered the poor cousin? It was good enough for blue collar workers, industry, the stockyards, etc.; considered too "inconvenient" to downtown to consider an ideal homesite. Well folks, we should have seen it coming as gentrification first swallowed other affordable neighborhoods, condo development is eating old northwest apartments and industrial areas alive, and Mississippi and Albina became "trendy". I never thought I'd see the day when there were $345,000 homes in North Portlaand outside of the University district along Willamette Blvd. but that day is here.
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Jan 11 2007
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Delegation Heads to Africa to Witness Debt Relief Working |
The Oregon chapter of Jubilee USA will be traveling to Kenya and Zambia from January 18-31 with other members of the Jubilee USA Network to witness firsthand the life-saving impacts of debt cancellation on the people of Africa. This delegation will travel to clinics, schools, and meet with community groups. The delegation will make its first stop in Nairobi, Kenya for the World Social Forum which convenes for the first time in Africa this year.
"Our generation will be remembered by how we acted when faced with the devastation of AIDS, poverty and unjust debt in Africa. There is a crisis of tsunami proportion every year in Africa. The fact that Americans are not aware of how two thirds of the world lives, and do not act to change it, that is our crisis. The World Social Forum is an opportunity to join with 150,000 people from civil society groups from around the world to create the vision for true change, because Another World Is Possible," said Nancy Yuill, co-chair of Jubilee Oregon.
"Our generation will be remembered by how we acted when faced with the devastation of AIDS, poverty and unjust debt in Africa. There is a crisis of tsunami proportion every year in Africa. The fact that Americans are not aware of how two thirds of the world lives, and do not act to change it, that is our crisis. The World Social Forum is an opportunity to join with 150,000 people from civil society groups from around the world to create the vision for true change, because Another World Is Possible," said Nancy Yuill, co-chair of Jubilee Oregon.
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Jan 11 2007
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Students Denied Freedom of Speech at Jefferson HS |
Jefferson High YAWR Needs Your Solidarity...
Students Denied Freedom of Speech! Please call the Bloomington District Superintendent
Students Denied Freedom of Speech! Please call the Bloomington District Superintendent
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Jan 11 2007
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Two actions in one day: Anti-Surge in St Paul and anti-Gitmo in Minneapolis |
Two protests were held in the Twin Cities today. In the morning, around 150 persons protested in front of Senator Norm Coleman’s office to demand an end to the US occupation of Iraq. In the evening in Minneapolis, a protest was held to mark 5 years of incarceration of prisoners at Gitmo. For that one, seventy persons dressed up in orange jump suits and hoods and walked through the downtown skyways. Below I have photos from these two events.
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Jan 11 2007
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Iraq Escalation: The World Reacts |
Bush Speech Text || Translation of Bush Speech
Protest in Harlem, 1/11 || Vox Pop Organizes Protest, 1/11 || Sheehan and Chomsky to Bush: Troops Out Now || Iran Next? || Red Flags: Peace Movement Must Also Escalate || OnNYTurf: The Same Old Ho-Hum || Jackson Heights Protests
LA: Military Families Speak Out || Houston Protests || Santa Cruz || Portland
What They Did Then: Nixon, Cambodia, and Kent State
Protest in Harlem, 1/11 || Vox Pop Organizes Protest, 1/11 || Sheehan and Chomsky to Bush: Troops Out Now || Iran Next? || Red Flags: Peace Movement Must Also Escalate || OnNYTurf: The Same Old Ho-Hum || Jackson Heights Protests
LA: Military Families Speak Out || Houston Protests || Santa Cruz || Portland
What They Did Then: Nixon, Cambodia, and Kent State
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Jan 11 2007
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Protest Robert E. Lee Jan 12th |
This Friday, January 12th at noon the Sons of Confederate Veterans will be gathering in front of the Robert E. Lee monument to celebrate Lee's 200th anniversary. The Virginia Anti-War Network is calling for a counter protest to show our disgust and contempt for the racist ideas that Lee has come to epitomize.
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Jan 11 2007
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Miami Jan 11th: International Day to Shut Down Guantanamo |
On January 11th, 2007, an international day of action calling for shutdown of the U.S. detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, CODEPINK Miami and other peace groups held a vigil outside of the US Southern Command in Miami. An International Day of Action to Shut Down Guantánamo was called for today because January 11, 2007 is the five-year anniversary of the arrival of the first prisoners there in January 11, 2002. President Bush is now calling for more troops, again ignoring the will of the people to stop the war and stop the torture. CODEPINK Women for Peace, in addition to the US Southern Command vigil in Miami, will participate in demonstrations in Washington, D.C, New York City, and at Guantánamo Bay Prison itself.
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Jan 12 2007
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Hundreds demand Gitmo closure-and over 80 arrests INSIDE Fed Courthouse |
One the morning of January 11, one day after Bush's infamous "surge" speech, hundreds of protestors descended on the Federal courthouse at 3rd and Constitution Ave. At least 120 wore orange jumpsuits and black hoods, about one for every 4 detainees in Gitmo today.
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Jan 12 2007
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Anti-Violence March to City Hall |
Four coordinated marches united against recent violent crime, consisting of more than a thousand outraged New Orleanian residents and supporters, converged on the City Hall steps around noon today. The crowd overflowed into the lawns, street and park surrounding the building. Several speakers, each from different neighborhoods in the city, spoke candidly about what actions police, politicians, communities and each of us need to take for the city to combat a decades-old issue resulting from New Orleans’ entrenched poverty, lack of quality education and drug culture.As one speaker said, “shame” is, and has been, on all of us, especially city leaders who have concentrated power, for the recent murders, which are spread across many neighborhoods. Only ten days into 2007, nine murders occurred — six in a twenty-four hour span. [ Read more | Listen to the speeches | More photos from commongroundrelief.org ]
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Jan 12 2007
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CAPCR: Town Hall Mtgs on Police Shootings |
The St. Louis Police have shot another young man. Citizens investigating the case have declared it murder. They say witnesses dispute the police account that Jeremy Robinson drew a gun and was shot in "self defense". These witnesses say that Jeremy was on the ground, hands flat, when the officer shot him in the back. This officer then turned him over and shot him again. They believe they saw him drop a gun next to the body to justify his actions.
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Jan 12 2007
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Help stop abuse of animals at OHSU's laboratories |
After six years of trying to get OHSU to respond to IDA's and the public's concerns about inhumane animal care in its research laboratories, we have an unprecedented opportunity to see positive changes for the animals! But your help is urgently needed!
In a meeting on December 21, 2006, before the OHSU Animal Care SubCommittee, IDA presented two intense hours of non-stop video footage documenting the poor and neglectful conditions for the animals at the Primate Center.
At the end of the meeting IDA proposed a solution to this tragic situation by asking OHSU to begin to reduce its use of animals by five percent annually, replacing them with scientific protocols that do not use animals. In considering IDA's proposal, the Committee has asked for the public's feedback on this issue.
Letters from Oregon residents the Committee are especially needed. Please write a polite letter to the Animal Care SubCommittee by Wednesday, January 17 stating your support for the Five Percent Initiative. Feel free to use any of the points outlined below, and remember that your letter need not be long and detailed.
In a meeting on December 21, 2006, before the OHSU Animal Care SubCommittee, IDA presented two intense hours of non-stop video footage documenting the poor and neglectful conditions for the animals at the Primate Center.
At the end of the meeting IDA proposed a solution to this tragic situation by asking OHSU to begin to reduce its use of animals by five percent annually, replacing them with scientific protocols that do not use animals. In considering IDA's proposal, the Committee has asked for the public's feedback on this issue.
Letters from Oregon residents the Committee are especially needed. Please write a polite letter to the Animal Care SubCommittee by Wednesday, January 17 stating your support for the Five Percent Initiative. Feel free to use any of the points outlined below, and remember that your letter need not be long and detailed.
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Jan 12 2007
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Beaverton Peace Vigil Against Escalation |
Over 150 people assembled at 5th and Hall this evening to protest Chimpy's call for another 20,000 soldiers and an additional carrier battle group to the middle east.The majority of Americans want our soldiers home now.Yet, the cabal that runs the White House does not "get it".Dems plan to block funding, but they MUST know that they have your support. Call toll-free: 800-614-2803.And GOP senators who are up for reelection in 2008 are, by in large, now breaking with Bush. Let them know you support them on ending the war
Protesters outside White House demand troop pullout from Iraq
Anti-war protesters demonstrate in front of the White House, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2007, as President Bush was making his address to the nation about his new policy dealing with the Iraq war. Bush said he will send 21,500 additional U.S. troops to Iraq to quell its near-anarchy and for the first time acknowledged he had erred by failing to order a military buildup last year.
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Jan 12 2007
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Memphis Conference Spotlights Media Issues |
MEMPHIS -- National Conference for Media Reform kicks off Friday, with nearly 3,000 activists, journalists, policymakers and concerned citizens in attendance. The 2007 National Conference for Media Reform -- a landmark event filled with rousing speeches, musical performances, provocative panels and instructive workshops -- promises to put reforming America’s media system in the national spotlight. "More than 3,000 activists from across the country will gather in Memphis to declare that media reform is now on the national agenda,” said Robert W. McChesney, president and co-founder of Free Press, the national, nonpartisan group hosting the conference. “After years of fighting to prevent further consolidation of media ownership and the dumbing down of our airwaves, the movement is ready to pursue reforms that will transform American media.”
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Jan 12 2007
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Tonight's rally to protest escalation in Iraq |
A large crowd braved the cold and showed up at Pioneer Courthouse Square to protest Bush's announced escalation of the Iraq war this evening. The crowd marched to the Oregonian newspaper's office, chanting and taking over the street for a short time. In spite of delays, motorists showed great support to the protestors by honking and waving. This has not been the typical reaction of Portland drivers to such delays in the past. Perhaps this is reflective of a poll conducted showing that 89% of Americans oppose sending more troops to Iraq.
It was also unusual to have no noticeable police presence at the event this evening; no storm troopers, no smell of pepper spray in the air, no violation of free speech rights. The demonstrators marched back to PCS, where singing, chanting, percussion music and general camaraderie took place.
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Jan 12 2007
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NYC Protesters: No to Gitmo, No to Escalation |
Activists in Foley Square call for the closure of the US penal colony in Guantanamo Bay and in Times Square protest the Presidents call for a troop escalation in Iraq. || Anti-Guantanamo Bay Protests in DC
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Jan 12 2007
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105 protest "The Surge" in OKC |
The Oklahoma City "Stop the Surge" rally was cosponored by MoveOn.org, Oklahoma Veterans For Peace, and The Peace House. More than 100 OKC citizens joined a downtown protest to President Bush's Wednesday night call for escalation of the Iraq War with 21,500 "surge" troops.
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Jan 12 2007
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Bush Increases US Troop Levels In Iraq |
On Wednesday, January 10, George Bush gave a "major policy address" announcing an increase in US troop levels in Iraq. He said he "took responsibility" for past mistakes but that more troops are needed to pacify Baghdad and other parts of the country. The President also threatened military action against Iran and Syria. The first wave of additional troops has already begun deploying to the region, and a total of six brigades will be ordered all together, five into the city of Baghdad and one into Anbar Province, center of the Sunni insurgency against the US occupation. Bush has also sent an additional aircraft carrier task force into the Persian Gulf.
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Jan 12 2007
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Boston Joins Protesters Worldwide: Shut Down Guantanamo, Now! |
Boston, Mass.-- “I’m a litigator here in Boston and I have been working on representing six men detained in Guantanamo Bay Cuba since January 20, 2002. I had the opportunity to go down to the base. I met with these guys. I looked into their eyes. I have spoken with them and have spoken extensively with their families,” said Jeff Gleason, defense attorney with WilmerHale and the Center for Constitutional Rights. “This is of course the 5th anniversary of the opening of the Guantanamo detention facility. Guantanamo has become a powerful image, both at home and abroad, and has come to represent the very worst in the Bush administration’s approach to the war on terror.”
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Jan 12 2007
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Report Back: South Florida Radical Activist Conference |
Report-back from the FLORIDA ANARCHIST ORGANIZING workshop at the 2007 South Florida Radical Activist Conference, Miami. The workshop was originally billed as "Southeast Anarchist Organizing", but since virtually all of the 30+ people that attended were from Florida, talk mostly focused on organizing activities within this state.
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Jan 12 2007
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Martin Luther King Day - January 15, 2007 |
The Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr., often called Martin Luther King Day, is a United States holiday marking the birthdate of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., observed on the third Monday of January each year, around the time of King's birthday, January 15th. It is the only United States federal holiday commemorating an African American and one of only four to commemorate an individual person. Martin Luther King Day was founded as a holiday promoted by labor unions in contract negotiations.
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Jan 12 2007
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Surging Toward Catastrophe |
As 20,000 more troops deploy to the front lines in Iraq, A.K. Gupta explains what this "surge" really means for the U.S. war on Iraq and what the future holds for a country now ethnically-divided and engaged in civil war... Chris Anderson investigates the twin closures of Clamor magazine and the Independent Press association... Sarah Stuteville reflects on her time spent in Pakistan... Including a review of "Children of Men" and "Pan's Labyrinth" by Charlie Bass and a eulogy for James Brown.
GI Cup o’Joe: New Coffeehouse for Soldiers Opens Near Ft. Drum || Community Calendar (January 13 - 31) || Letters to the Editors || District Attorney Stalls on Interviewing Shooter Cops || Sadrists: There is no such thing as “The Iraqi Shia” || Casualties: U.S. military Deaths Topped 3,000 Last Month || Escalation: “If Force Doesn’t Work, Use More Force” || Antiwar Dems Say Yes to Empire || Bush’s Iraq Strategy for 2007:A Second Civil War or Genocide || Progressive Media Powers Through || The New York Independent Press Association Survives || The IPA’s Domino Effect:The Enron of Indie Media Leaves Publications in a Pinch || Reflections from Pakistan || Students Give NOLA Helping Hand || Sack that Quack Keroack: Reproductive Rights Community Steps up Fight to Oust Anti-Abortion Appointee || A Bellweather Trial: Ehren Watada’s Court-Marshall and the Iraq War || Why I Joined the Vigil for Sean Bell: A Letter from an Activist || District Attorney Stalls on Interviewing Shooter Cops
GI Cup o’Joe: New Coffeehouse for Soldiers Opens Near Ft. Drum || Community Calendar (January 13 - 31) || Letters to the Editors || District Attorney Stalls on Interviewing Shooter Cops || Sadrists: There is no such thing as “The Iraqi Shia” || Casualties: U.S. military Deaths Topped 3,000 Last Month || Escalation: “If Force Doesn’t Work, Use More Force” || Antiwar Dems Say Yes to Empire || Bush’s Iraq Strategy for 2007:A Second Civil War or Genocide || Progressive Media Powers Through || The New York Independent Press Association Survives || The IPA’s Domino Effect:The Enron of Indie Media Leaves Publications in a Pinch || Reflections from Pakistan || Students Give NOLA Helping Hand || Sack that Quack Keroack: Reproductive Rights Community Steps up Fight to Oust Anti-Abortion Appointee || A Bellweather Trial: Ehren Watada’s Court-Marshall and the Iraq War || Why I Joined the Vigil for Sean Bell: A Letter from an Activist || District Attorney Stalls on Interviewing Shooter Cops
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Jan 12 2007
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Worcester Indymedia News, January 11, 2007 |
Here's the first of what we hope will be many video news reports from Worcester Indymedia. In this installment, we feature a peace demonstration in Worcester's Lincoln Square, and reaction to a community meeting about the use of "the n-word" at the Worcester Youth Center.
Download the mp4 video (19MB). You can subscribe via Democracy and see all WoIndy video reports as they are posted.
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Jan 12 2007
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Congessman James P. McGovern and Worcester say "No" to More Troops |
Worcester is standing up against President George Bush’s proposed troop increases. Locally people against the war have become more visible with demonstrations, vigils and impeachment campaigns.
Worcester’s Congressman James P. McGovern is equally stepping up his call to bring the troops home. In his January 10th speech, McGovern makes clear his vehement opposition to the war and a troop increase, stating, “This is not “stay the course,” . . .this is escalation.” “This is George Bush’s war, and he should end it on his watch.”
Moreover McGovern makes clear that Congressional colleagues must step up. “It is my view that too many in Washington are consumed with saving face rather than saving lives.” McGovern Speech | Demonstration Photos | Video of Jan 11 demonstration | Photos of Jan 11 demonstration | Video of Jan 10 demonstration
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Jan 13 2007
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Trafficking victims build US Embassy in Iraq? |
While US troops risk their lives in the war in Iraq, some private businesses are reportedly engaged in human trafficking. Worse yet, they may be building the new US embassy in Baghdad. Multiple sources have described the plight of workers tricked into Iraq to work on US bases. The workers, often far from their homes in Southeast Asia, find themselves held against their will through deceit, threats and violence. For years these workers have fed the hungry labor markets in the Middle East. The war on Iraq - and a subsequent jobs bonanza - has added a new country to the list.Human rights group Free the Slaves has started a campaign called 'WarSlavery' to end taxpayer-supported trafficking in Iraq. --Read More--
Links: WarSlavery.org | Background | Free the Slaves | Human Trafficking in the San Diego/Tijuana Border Region: 1 | 2
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Jan 13 2007
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Public Housing Faces Budget Cuts |
In an unusual show of solidarity, Public housing residents, advocates, and housing authority officials banned together on Wednesday to protest last week’s announcement that public housing funds to over a 100 agencies would be cut by close to 25%. Independent Producer, Selina Musuta, was in Washington, DC, where one of the largest protests concerning the budget cuts took place.
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Jan 13 2007
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Protests Against "Surge" |
January 11, 2007: Vigils throughout the L.A. area protested Bush's planned troop increase in Iraq. Large turn-outs have been reported at many locations: there was an estimated 300 people at Wilshire and Western, about 100 in Westwood, 75 in Mar Vista, 40 in Highland Park, and 100 in South Pasadena. From the Newswire: CodePINK Says NO to Escalation! -- More Photos from Westwood Protest -- PHOTOs: Anti-war Protest in Mar Vista -- Highland Park Protests Increased U.S. Aggression -- ANSWER Protest at Wilshire & Western Draws Over 300
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Jan 13 2007
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Thursday Actions |
On a cold windy day , Jan.11 in Cleveland , Ohio we had 3 actions against Guantanamo Bay and Bush's announced plan to increase the number of troops sent to Iraq.
In the early hours of morning rush hour, a group of us gathered outside the Federal Courthouse where deportation hearings are routinely held. We held banners and signs and recieved many honks from the morning commuters.
At 2pm, we hit the recruitng station and there as well recieved many honks in support for peace .Several people debated with us- including a soldier in uniform. Others decided to join us who were out and about doing their daily activities. We also handed out flyers of the WCW call.
Later at 4pm, about 30 folks showed up at Public Square to do street theatre and roll the Guantanamo Bay prisoner cage through downtown Cleveland. Catholic Workers from the Catholic Worker house were a crucial part of the rally, dressing in different costumes to portray soldiers guarding prisoners. Some dressed as detainees in orange jumpsuits and others as military police, looking very authentic. Read More...
In the early hours of morning rush hour, a group of us gathered outside the Federal Courthouse where deportation hearings are routinely held. We held banners and signs and recieved many honks from the morning commuters.
At 2pm, we hit the recruitng station and there as well recieved many honks in support for peace .Several people debated with us- including a soldier in uniform. Others decided to join us who were out and about doing their daily activities. We also handed out flyers of the WCW call.
Later at 4pm, about 30 folks showed up at Public Square to do street theatre and roll the Guantanamo Bay prisoner cage through downtown Cleveland. Catholic Workers from the Catholic Worker house were a crucial part of the rally, dressing in different costumes to portray soldiers guarding prisoners. Some dressed as detainees in orange jumpsuits and others as military police, looking very authentic. Read More...
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Jan 13 2007
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Oakland Celebrates Inauguration of Mayor Ron Dellums |
Oakland's new Mayor, Ron Dellums, has been holding a week of inaugural events from January 8th through 14th. On Saturday morning January 13th, people will gather for a "Hands Around the Lake" unity event to celebrate Oakland's multicultural diversity. People will gather near the entrance to Fairyland at Lake Merritt (on Grand Ave.), wearing white t-shirts and bright colored gloves. Registration begins at 8am, and Mayor Dellums will speak at 9am as the walk around the lake begins. At 10:30, people will link hands around the lake. Later in the day, Asian/Pacific Islander, Fruitvale, and LGBT community inaugural events will be held around the city.
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Jan 13 2007
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The Problem the Boston Globe has with Muslims |
For several years the news media have reported increasing numbers of controversies involving Muslim communities throughout the USA as well as in Europe. Recently, Representative Goode and US Holocaust Museum Memorial Museum Council member Dennis Prager objected to US Representative Ellison's use of a Quran during the congressional oath-taking ceremony. Since Ellison's election, Goode and many other politicians and pundits have been demanding changes in immigration law to decrease or to stop the immigration of Muslims to the USA as if the Ellison's ancestors have not been residing in the territory of the USA since the eighteenth century. Such proposals constitute an unsubtle statement that Muslims have no place in America. Muslims seem to us somewhat exotic, and are therefore easy to stereotype. Dumping on Muslims is fun, cheap, and easy.
The unwillingness of American and Western societies in general to confront naked Islamophobic incitement recalls so many pathological actions associated with the development of modern anti-Semitism in Central and Eastern Europe that we Americans must ask ourselves whether Islamophobia is the New Anti-Semitism.
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Jan 13 2007
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Philadelphia Demonstration Joins International Protests to Shut Down Guantanomo Bay |
Some 40 demonstrators gathered at the Federal courthouse this past Thursday as part of worldwide protests demanding the closure of Washington's prison camp on U.S.-occupied Cuban territory at Guantanamo Bay on the 11 January fifth anniversary of its opening. The protestors demanded closing the camp and ending the practices of trial-less detentions and torture at the U.S. facility. Indymedia coverage of international protests: Washington DC | New York City | Boston | Cleveland | England
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Jan 13 2007
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DOD official calls for boycott of law firms that defend Gitmo detainees, ABA responds |
A Defense Department official, Cully Stimson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Detainee Affairs, has stirred up a maelstrom in the American legal community by calling on U.S. corporations to boycott law firms whose attorneys represent terror suspects held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
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Jan 14 2007
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Hugo Chávez Installed as Venezuela's President for Another Six Years |
Hugo Chávez was re-inaugurated as Venezuela's President for a six-year term on January 10, after soundly winning a December 3 election with 63% of the vote. His regime first came to power in 1998, and he has consistently made efforts to use oil profits to better the lot of the Venezuelan poor and working class, while forging links with other left-wing Latin American governments. In a January 8 speech, he announced that he will nationalize electrical and telecommunications businesses.
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Jan 14 2007
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Three Quarters of a Million: Homeless in America |
Representative Barney Frank (D-MA) joined the National Alliance to End Homelessness in DC this week in releasing the first nationwide estimate of homeless population in a decade.
NAEH's report, Homelessness Counts lays the groundwork for measuring efforts to reduce and end homelessness by establishing a baseline homeless count and demonstrating methodologies for measurement. It includes information on the nationwide movement to end homelessness and on steps for public and private action.
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Jan 14 2007
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benefits of social gathering |
tonight i attended a peak oil meeting where we talked about the message. as it happened, the bitter cold (my fingers are still quite numb as i type) had prompted our hosting church to shelter the homeless for a while. This is important for two reasons, 1. the nature of the discussion, end of cheap energy will have a direct impact on homelessness and how we as a collective society will choose to take care of every living thing on the planet in equal proportioning of resources with rights to survive. In the past, animals were slaughtered in ritualistic fashion and many praises were laid upon the lifeforce of the kill which sustains the lifeforce of the gardenkeepers, who in turn, manage carefully the natural systems that keep the whole planet in balance. holy shit, right?
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Jan 14 2007
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Fire Fighters Sharing Police "Sensitivity Training?" |
Just saw a video, taken from surveilance cameras, at the Fairfield Apartments, in SW Portland-SCARY!
I will try to capture a copy of the vid, but for now, it can be seen on channel (ugh)2's web site (KATU). It shows a tenant, Terry DeGeorge, who by his own account, needlessly verbally harassed some Portland Fire Fighters who had entered the lobby. An altercation broke out, in which a fire fighter threw the first (and as far as could be seen, ONLY) blow, the others then ganged onto the victim (verbal abuse is a felony in Portland, right?), and took him to the ground, where a bald headed Lt. Robert Bedgood (sp?) kicked him three times. All on video.
I will try to capture a copy of the vid, but for now, it can be seen on channel (ugh)2's web site (KATU). It shows a tenant, Terry DeGeorge, who by his own account, needlessly verbally harassed some Portland Fire Fighters who had entered the lobby. An altercation broke out, in which a fire fighter threw the first (and as far as could be seen, ONLY) blow, the others then ganged onto the victim (verbal abuse is a felony in Portland, right?), and took him to the ground, where a bald headed Lt. Robert Bedgood (sp?) kicked him three times. All on video.
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Jan 14 2007
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JOIN - Fort Lewis Camp RESISTANCE |
We are here, in the mud. It is not warm here...nor dry.....however, you should stand with us....in support of a man who stands up against the military mahine and a nation of millions who don't have the foggiest notion that our troops do not want to serve in this war. Lt. Watada is speaking for thousands of enlisted soldiers like Darrell Anderson and myself, a fifteen year veteran of the Army. Watada is a true leader.....leading and doing....he knows he should never ask enlisted soldiers to do things he would never do....that is part of the requirement. NEVER ask nor order your troops to do things that you wouldn't do. There are more violators of this rule in the military now, than ever (or at least in my 15 years.) Lt. Watada is not one of them...and with that, the soldiers, who have always followed good leaders....will follow Lt. Watada.. Mike, Damon, Ethan and I, slept on the rig last night...it was night one of Camp RESISTANCE!!!
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Jan 14 2007
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Important free speech court case in Seattle - 7 years after WTO protests! |
On Dec 1, 2000, close to 600 people were arrested during the WTO protests in Seattle at several different times and different locations. Originally we tried to construct class action lawsuits for everyone negatively affected by police action during that time but that was too broad. Next we put all arrestees together in a lawsuit and stuck with that for a while. Ultimately, however, several sort of separate suits emerged. This one is the last unresolved case (that I know about.)This case is for all those arrested in the morning at Westlake Park. Several other cases have been settled: the ACLU got a pretty good outcome and people arrested later in the day at First & Broad settled as well. The city paid protesters significant damages! Some arrestees (the largest group being arrested first thing in the am at 8th & Lenora, soon after departing from Denny Park) ultimately didn't fall into any of the lawsuits, even though I think their rights were tromped as well. !Arrest is NOT an acceptable crowd control method, right!?! read more >> | Jury Seated for WTO arrestee class action trial, Opening statements begin tomorrow
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Jan 14 2007
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Twin Cities janitors authorize strike |
Hundreds of janitors jammed a meeting Saturday to overwhelmingly authorize a strike if a settlement cannot be reached with Twin Cities cleaning contractors.
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Jan 14 2007
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What the deaths of Saddam and Ford have in common? |
What do the deaths of Saddam and Ford have in common? They both sweep under the rug unresolved issues and crimes. They are the the willful ANTITHESES of the Truth Commissions seen in South Africa and elsewhere. Seemingly derived from the same power and control mentality of mafiosos, they are the historical "cement boots" of society's access to the truth.
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Jan 14 2007
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Anne Feeney Benefit Concert January 19 |
Anne Feeney benefit concert for
KSKQ Community Radio & Southern Oregon Jobs with Justice
Friday, January 19th, 2007 at 7:00 PM
Unitarian Center, 87 4th St., Ashland Oregon
$10 donation – no one turned away
Anne rocked Ashland in last year's 4th of July Parade
http://rogueimc.org/en/2006/07/6908.shtml (with video clips)
Anne Feeney is coming back and the timing could not be better. During these troubling times all around Jackson County with our Libraries, Historical Society, and SOU under attack we see a war on the workers in full force! Just on cue Anne Feeney will be here at a time when her "War on Workers" labor song couldn't be more appropriate.
KSKQ Community Radio & Southern Oregon Jobs with Justice
Friday, January 19th, 2007 at 7:00 PM
Unitarian Center, 87 4th St., Ashland Oregon
$10 donation – no one turned away
Anne rocked Ashland in last year's 4th of July Parade
http://rogueimc.org/en/2006/07/6908.shtml (with video clips) Anne Feeney is coming back and the timing could not be better. During these troubling times all around Jackson County with our Libraries, Historical Society, and SOU under attack we see a war on the workers in full force! Just on cue Anne Feeney will be here at a time when her "War on Workers" labor song couldn't be more appropriate.
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Jan 14 2007
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Is The Official San Diego Martin Luther King Jr Parade Too Official? |
This year the Peace Resource Center and San Diego Coalition for Peace & Justice have decided to not participate in the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade.
Why not? Over the years we have participated in the parade to honor MLK's values and vision and as a counter to the militarization of the local parade, which includes the FBI, Border Patrol, Homeland Security contingents as well as many JROTC units. This militarization of the parade continues and has been increasing--discussions with parade organizers have fallen on deaf ears. The parade has been increasingly marginalized in the community, first moved to Harbor Drive, then to a route around the outside of Petco Park--with fewer and fewer people attending the parade. --Read More--
Martin Luther King, Jr Day Events on Monday:
--MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY COMMUNITY RALLY+PICNIC Mon Jan 15 1-4PM, MLK JR PARK, 6401 Skyline, Sponsored by King/Chavez Coalition for Justice and Unity. Info: KingChavezunite@yahoo.com
--ALL PEOPLE'S BREAKFAST Mon Jan 15 7AM, Golden Hall, Downtown. Azi Khamisa, Tukufu Kalonji and Jason Russell. Limited ticket availability- Call 619-236-6413 for tickets or info
--WORLD BEAT CENTER MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY CELEBRATION Mon Jan 15 11AM-5PM World Beat Center, 2100 Park Blvd, Balboa Park. Reggae, R&B, Gospel
Why not? Over the years we have participated in the parade to honor MLK's values and vision and as a counter to the militarization of the local parade, which includes the FBI, Border Patrol, Homeland Security contingents as well as many JROTC units. This militarization of the parade continues and has been increasing--discussions with parade organizers have fallen on deaf ears. The parade has been increasingly marginalized in the community, first moved to Harbor Drive, then to a route around the outside of Petco Park--with fewer and fewer people attending the parade. --Read More--
Martin Luther King, Jr Day Events on Monday:
--MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY COMMUNITY RALLY+PICNIC Mon Jan 15 1-4PM, MLK JR PARK, 6401 Skyline, Sponsored by King/Chavez Coalition for Justice and Unity. Info: KingChavezunite@yahoo.com
--ALL PEOPLE'S BREAKFAST Mon Jan 15 7AM, Golden Hall, Downtown. Azi Khamisa, Tukufu Kalonji and Jason Russell. Limited ticket availability- Call 619-236-6413 for tickets or info
--WORLD BEAT CENTER MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY CELEBRATION Mon Jan 15 11AM-5PM World Beat Center, 2100 Park Blvd, Balboa Park. Reggae, R&B, Gospel
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Jan 14 2007
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January edition of Houston Peace News hits the stands |
Houston Indymedia has taken on the role of one of the rotating editors of the Houston Peace News, a monthly paper dedicated to encourage debate on issues of human dignity and global sustainability.
The January edition of the Houston Peace News is out now, and ready to distribute. We could use your help getting the paper out around town, and with gathering content for the next few issues.
If you want to help distribute the paper, you can pick up a stack from KPFT (419 Lovett Blvd.). We hope to get it out in new parts of town!
Also, check out El Independiente, a Spanish language Indymedia paper based in Houston that is in its second edition.
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Jan 15 2007
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Houstonians support Caravan to Chiapas |
This past Saturday January 13th, local supporters of the indigenous peoples struggle in Chiapas Mexico gathered at the Shape Community Center to support the Pastors for Peace Chiapas Caravan and hand over a good amount of needed humanitarian aid, bound for Chiapas.
The gathering of Caravanistas and supporters were welcomed by Deloyd Parker, Director of the Shape Center, who pointed out that the people of Chiapas were part of the Shape family, with many of the same struggles...[see the full report + photos]
The last time Pastors for Peace came to Houston was in July 2006 to gather donations for their 17th Caravan to Cuba, a campaign organized to both provide humanitarian assistance and protest the US blockade. Houston supporters held a benefit show to raise funds for the caravan.
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Jan 15 2007
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Santa Cruz Regional Transporation Commission Votes To Widen Highway 1 |
Despite a large public outcry and a local decades-long voting record against widening , the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission voted to pursue funding for three local Highway 1 expansion projects. The three projects were brought to the new SCCRTC on their first meeting, January 11th, 2007. The public was only informed of said projects that week. Objections to widening were raised on the basis of environmental and quality-of-life concerns. The proposed widening would disproportionately affect people living in apartments, condos and mobile home parks.
Photos
Photos
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Jan 15 2007
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MLK Day 2007 in New York City |
Multiple celebrations of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day in New York City
Join the IWW in celebrating Martin Luther King Jr's birthday with a march through industrial Brooklyn to protest the illegal firings of 22 warehouse workers [Read More] || Building Bridges Monday Night: Martin Luther King, Jr., The Man, The Struggle, The Legacy [Read More] || Dr. Suzan D. Johnson Cook Honors MLK Jr.’s Memory [Read More] || The Day After Martin Luther King Jr. Died: Riots and Rebellion [Read More] || King on Nkrumah and the independence of Ghana [Read More]
Blogwire: DMI Blog: "Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Thanks for keeping it real." || StayFree!: "MLK" || City Belt: "MLK Reflections."
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Jan 15 2007
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Irish Firm Offers Free Energy |
Irish high-technology firm, Steorn, has stirred the imagination of the world's scientific community with their recent posting of an advertisement in The Economist on Aug. 18 announcing that they have a working free-energy technology. The full-page ad stated that their independently-tested technology is capable of providing the world with "an infinite supply of pure energy," so that the need to recharge a phone or refuel a car becomes obsolete. The brief announcement stated that they are seeking a jury of twelve scientists who are "the most qualified and the most cynical" to test the technology and publish their findings.
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Jan 15 2007
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If you only read the US press, you must be very confused about Venezuela |
If you only read the US press, you must be very confused about Venezuela. The extreme levels of distortion, lack of fact checking and source verification and outright manipulation of information in the US media on Venezuela is quite troubling and dangerous in a nation that has waged wars based on false data and misleading policies.
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Jan 15 2007
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Po Po Pro |
A short 4 minute photo-video from Joe Anybody of police and peaceful protesters. See the link below.
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Jan 15 2007
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Police Commission Hearing on Government Surveillance |
San Francisco's Police Commission will hold a hearing about Government Surveillance on Wednesday January 17th. The Police Commission has supported the installation of cameras because it says that "the community wants them." ACLU of Northern California is encouraging concerned community members to testify that "the community wants REAL solutions, not empty political gestures that put our civil liberties at risk."
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Jan 15 2007
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Abortion Ban Introduced in VA-and much more |
The Virginia General Assembly has just begun but the bills that affect a woman's right to choose have been piling up....
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Jan 15 2007
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Richmonders respond to glorification of Robert E. Lee |
Over the past few months, The City of Richmond has spent half a million dollars of the general maintenance budget to polish the controversial monument to Confederate General Robert E. Lee in time for the Sons of Confederate Veterans to celebrate his birthday. On Friday, a concerned group of Richmonders came out to show their disapproval of the city's decision to financially support the SCV's celebrations of General Lee. It’s 2007: Time to tell the truth about Robert E. Lee | The Real Robert E. Lee | VAWN Protests R. E. Lee Brethren | The Sordid Political History of the Sons of Confederate Veterans
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Jan 15 2007
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Water-Proof: A Study of Post-Katrina Culture |
On January 3rd, the Harley School hosted a screening of the documentary Water-Proof: A Study of Post-Katrina Culture to a packed auditorium. The screening was a fund raising event for Harley House—a Flower City Habitat for Humanity/Harley School effort—currently being built on the North Side of Rochester. It was also a call to action for people to aid in the rebuilding of post-Katrina Louisiana.
The documentary chronicles the reconstruction effort, the devastation that remains a year later, and the struggle of everyday life currently underway in post-Katrina New Orleans and St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana. According to their press release, the film-makers—Sawyer Carter Jacobs, Andrew Douglas Rea, and Rashid Albert Duroseau (all graduates of Harley School)—“hope to inspire our audience into volunteering, and entreat them to fall in love with the great coastal city.”
Currently the film-makers are finishing the epilogue and are going to be entering the documentary into film festivals around the country. Rochester Indymedia has been in contact with the trio in the hopes of presenting a free screening sometime in May or June. Stay tuned for more information. See the trailer on YouTube. Contact the film-makers at bgfilms@gmail.com. If you'd like to get involved with the Harley House project, call 442-1770 ext. 3109, or email at harleyhouse@harleyschool.org.
Additional Information: Water-Proof: the film | New Orleans Habitat for Humanity | Flower City Habitat for Humanity | Harley House | Still Photos from the Film | New Orleans Indymedia
From Indymedia US: Common Ground Collective co-founder Scott Crow Under Investigation by FBI | Katrina Volunteers depart to Lebanon | Dozens of Cities Participate in "Critical Mass" Solidarity Ride on the Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina | 9 Arrested in Action to Reopen New Orleans Public Housing | Common Ground Under Pressure
The documentary chronicles the reconstruction effort, the devastation that remains a year later, and the struggle of everyday life currently underway in post-Katrina New Orleans and St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana. According to their press release, the film-makers—Sawyer Carter Jacobs, Andrew Douglas Rea, and Rashid Albert Duroseau (all graduates of Harley School)—“hope to inspire our audience into volunteering, and entreat them to fall in love with the great coastal city.”
Currently the film-makers are finishing the epilogue and are going to be entering the documentary into film festivals around the country. Rochester Indymedia has been in contact with the trio in the hopes of presenting a free screening sometime in May or June. Stay tuned for more information. See the trailer on YouTube. Contact the film-makers at bgfilms@gmail.com. If you'd like to get involved with the Harley House project, call 442-1770 ext. 3109, or email at harleyhouse@harleyschool.org.
Additional Information: Water-Proof: the film | New Orleans Habitat for Humanity | Flower City Habitat for Humanity | Harley House | Still Photos from the Film | New Orleans Indymedia
From Indymedia US: Common Ground Collective co-founder Scott Crow Under Investigation by FBI | Katrina Volunteers depart to Lebanon | Dozens of Cities Participate in "Critical Mass" Solidarity Ride on the Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina | 9 Arrested in Action to Reopen New Orleans Public Housing | Common Ground Under Pressure
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Jan 15 2007
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Tlacolula Prisoners in Oaxaca Demand Freedom |
Prisoners from Tlacolula prison in Oaxaca, Mexico issued a statement declaring their innocence of alleged crimes relating to the events of November 20, 25 and December 1, and additionally condemned their deplorable treatment by the police and imprisoners.
FROM POLITICAL PRISONERS AT TLACOLULA To the people of Oaxaca.
To the state government.
To the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.
To the president of Mexico, Felipe Calderón Hinojosa.
To the international community.
We, the undersigned, are writing to you with regards to the following situation:
As a result of the events in the city of Oaxaca on November 20 and 25 and December 1, we were arbitrarily apprehended with extreme violence by members of the Federal Preventive Police (PFP), the state ministerial police, and individuals in street clothes traveling in vehicles without plates. From the very first, there was absolutely no respect shown for our individual guarantees delineated in the Constitution of Mexico. Read More...
FROM POLITICAL PRISONERS AT TLACOLULA To the people of Oaxaca.
To the state government.
To the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.
To the president of Mexico, Felipe Calderón Hinojosa.
To the international community.
We, the undersigned, are writing to you with regards to the following situation:
As a result of the events in the city of Oaxaca on November 20 and 25 and December 1, we were arbitrarily apprehended with extreme violence by members of the Federal Preventive Police (PFP), the state ministerial police, and individuals in street clothes traveling in vehicles without plates. From the very first, there was absolutely no respect shown for our individual guarantees delineated in the Constitution of Mexico. Read More...
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Jan 15 2007
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Historic mobilizations will usher in "new phase" in Campaign for Fair Food! |
The Coalition of Immokalee Workers announces a major mobilization for farmworker justice, April 13 14, 2007, in the greater Chicago area. Make your plans to join us for historic actions that will usher in a new phase in the Campaign for Fair Food.CIW: "Today, we are tired, in the words of Martin Luther King Jr., of`relying on the good will and understanding of those who profit by exploiting us.'"
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Jan 16 2007
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ABC Shuts Down Blogger Who Criticized Violent Rhetoric on KSFO |
In 2006, a blogger named Spocko began posting examples of inflammatory rhetoric common to several talk radio hosts on KSFO, an ABC Radio-owned station in San Francisco. Spocko also sent numerous letters to corporations advertising on KSFO with examples of the content their commercials were funding. This letter-writing campaign apparently got results, as major advertisers such as MasterCard, Bank of America, and Visa pulled their ads from the station. On December 21, ABC Inc. issued a cease-and-desist letter targeting Spocko and his blog for copyright violation and Spoko's internet service provider shut down his blog.
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Jan 16 2007
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Memorial to All Casualties of the Iraq War in Memorial Park |
In observance of the 3,000th death of US Militarty Service men and women in Iraq, Veterans for Peace, Code Pink and Military Families Speak Out created a memorial in Houston's Memorial Park. The Memorial was set up on Sunday January 14th and will remain there untill January 17th. More Details about the event | View photos and video from Sunday the 14th
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Jan 16 2007
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Silent March in Honor of Martin Luther King |
On Saturday, January 13th thousands of people gathered on Martin Luther King Boulevard in the southeast of Houston to begin a silent march in honor of civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March participants began gathering in the corner of Beekman and MLK Boulevard while others arrived at the parking lot at the University of Houston and were then shuttled by the Houston Metro to the starting point.By 8 AM people started lining on MLK while listening to Dr. King’s speech “I Have A Dream.” The March participants ranged from fraternal organizations, elementary and high school students, SEIU, CRECEN, KPFT, churches, students advocating for the DREAM Act and elected officials, just to name a few. [read the full story plus video coverage]
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Jan 16 2007
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GROUND ZERO PLAYERS - IMPEACH BUSH |
The Ground Zero Players of San Diego were on the move again in downtown San Diego Sunday afternoon. In response to Bush's policy address to the nation last week, Ground Zero Players in Bush masks greeted downtown traffic with pleas of "IMPEACH ME NOW"!
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Jan 16 2007
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Occupation of Public Housing: St. Bernard Update |
As St. Bernard residents try to reach terms with HANO officials about their right to return, members of Mayday NOLA, a housing rights advocacy group, currently occupy more than one apartment of the St. Bernard Housing Development in New Orleans. They do so at the residents’ request as stated in their open letter.One occupant, who wished to be anonymous at this time, described the mood inside the apartment as quiet and apprehensive as of 5pm, but maintained they are “staying here as long as it takes.”
Earlier today, Martin Luther King's birthday, around 12:30 pm, St. Bernard residents and supporters marched around the development until an opening in the fence allowed residents, with volunteers in tow, to open up their apartments for cleaning and salvaging. Without HANO officials interfering, residents saved many bikes, bed frames, ceramics and glass objects while ridding apartments of dirt and grime from the floodwaters of Hurricane Katrina more than sixteen months ago. More images from the event
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Jan 16 2007
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Bush Must Go: Only Impeachment Can Stop Him |
When are the American people and their representatives in Congress and the military going to wake up and realize that the US has an insane war criminal in the White House who is destroying all chances for peace in the world and establishing a police state in the US?
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Jan 16 2007
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Marchers Honor Dr. Martin Luther King in the Central Valley |
Events were held throughout the Central Valley in honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In Fresno a march and food drive to end childhood hunger in Fresno was held. An Indymedia reporter counted about 500 marchers at the top of the Tuolumne overpass. In Sacramento a large contingent of peace activists marched. In Davis there was a diverse program of songs, remarks, a video and a Freedom March supporting Dr. King's dream of a nonviolent society of people living together in peace. Photos
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Jan 16 2007
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Soldiers "Not going back again" -- support your local deserter! |
More and more, soliders, sailors, airmen, and marines are saying no to going back to Iraq for a second or a third tour. WHat ever happened to "One weekend a month" for members of the National Guard?
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Jan 16 2007
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IsraHell plans nuclear strike (by Latuff) |
Copyleft artwork by Brazilian cartoonist Latuff.
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Jan 16 2007
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Girls for Gender Equity |
"GGE's mission is to improve the physical, psychological, social and economic development of girls and women," Van Deven told me. "GGE encourages communities to remove barriers and create opportunities for girls and women to live self-determined lives through a combination of advocacy, leadership and self-esteem development, community organizing, education, and service provision."
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Jan 16 2007
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Community Retakes Legacy Of Martin Luther King, Jr. |
Fed up with the militarism and tinker toy image of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, trounced out each year by those who would use his image for enlistment quotas or political advancement; over 200 people gathered at MLK Jr. park in Encanto January 15th to reclaim his legacy of non-violence, social and economic justice.Speakers at the community celebration brought the voice of Dr. King back to the neighborhoods; to the needs of the disenfranchised and marginalized; the real history, the true legacy of a man who's struggle for justice grew, became more inclusive of all people who suffered.
For many, to go to the annual "official" San Diego Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade, watching young, uniformed 12 year-olds of color marching in formation, with rifles on their shoulders was offensive. Dr. King; that dream, that poetic voice, was silenced by a rifle. He refused "to study war" and opposed all military invasions; yet, in true Orwellian fashion, the government has turned his birthday into a military parade, aimed at fresh, shiny, ebony bodies in Sadr City.
As poets from the African American Artists group read their fiery lyrics, while a huge walking puppet of Dr. King strode through the crowd, mothers and fathers talked to their children, sharing their symbiotic relationship to this man of God and confrontation, peace and disobedience. He was their mentor, their brother, but above all, he was their liberator.
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Jan 16 2007
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Lone Vet Report |
I have stopped my protest outside Gordon Smith's office, I demanded he come out and say something about the war in Iraq and he has done that a few weeks ago. I do not trust the man but he did use strong language and that is enough for me to stop my brunch with the Gorgon.
I will visit his office as part of other actions and will risk arrest trying to get him to stop the funding of the occupation of Iraq. I will also start a new vigil in front of Sen. Wyden's office on 3rd Ave, in Portland. I believe that Smith is now irrelevant and the Dems must act now. I want the Dems to start the investigations but go much further than they wish to travel.
I will visit his office as part of other actions and will risk arrest trying to get him to stop the funding of the occupation of Iraq. I will also start a new vigil in front of Sen. Wyden's office on 3rd Ave, in Portland. I believe that Smith is now irrelevant and the Dems must act now. I want the Dems to start the investigations but go much further than they wish to travel.
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Jan 16 2007
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Portland IMC Newsletter for Jan. 14, 2007 |
Featuring Articles:
Portland Rally Protests Iraq War Escalation
Beaverton Peace Vigil Against Escalation
Olympia Opposes the Escalation
Five Women Lockdown to Federal Building in Portland
Protesters outside White House demand troop pullout from Iraq
Fouad Kaady's 29th Birthday
NYC: Demonstration in solidarity with Mapuche struggles
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Jan 16 2007
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NoPo Food not Bombs |
Looking to start a FNB day in Columbia park and hoping to find people who are interested and dedicated to the task. Wouldn't it be great to see every corner of the city brought together by the sharing of good food (or veggie slop)? 1st meeting will be Thursday the 25th @ 5:30pm at Proper Eats Cafe in St. Johns. The address is 8638 N. Lombard St. Send me an email if you have any questions before then. read more >>
Food Not Bombs Wednesday needs help!
Food Not Bombs Wednesday is looking to move to Liberty Hall/IWW Hall kitchen and is in need of cookware + other support. We're looking to keep some food staples. We have flyers that need distributing. They have every day FNB feeds, where, + bus info. read more >>
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Jan 16 2007
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Lets make local businesses take sides on the war |
I was at a local bar today grabbing some snacks to go. While I was waiting for my food I was shocked to see an army recruiting poster on the wall. The bartender lady saw me tear it down and said "I didn't see that. I've been wanting to do that for weeks." read more >>
Text message updates for busy progressives?
I am on dialysis which means I'm stuck in a @#$in' chair for 12 hours a week with nothing to do so I'm trying to think of a way I can make the world better. When I was working full time I missed alot of actions because I didn't find out about them until afterwards. I was thinking I could offer a free service where I text message quick messages to people letting them know whats coming up? read more >>
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Jan 16 2007
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Dr. Suzan D. Johnson Cook Honors MLK Jr.’s Memory |
Martin Luther King Jr., a hero of the Civil Rights Movement, was assassinated in Memphis, TN, on April 4, 1968. His impressive legacy, however, lives on. For the last 25 years, the Enoch Pratt Library in Baltimore has honored his memory with a commemorative lecture. On Jan. 13, 2007, Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook filled that role with distinction. She called on her audience to do their part, "to make a difference," and to be "strengthened by our struggle." read more >>
Government Found Guilty of Martin Luther King Murder in Federal Court - 12/8/99
Undisclosed conspirators for the governments of the United States, the State of Tennessee, and the City of Memphis were found liable for the murder of Martin Luther King, Jr. on December 8, 1999, in a federal circuit court. The federal government never appealed the decision. The mainstream media in the U.S. never covered the assassination conspiracy verdict, even though the implications of the story were greater than Watergate. The family requested a subsequent independent investigation to be set up by President Bill Clinton (who has since established office in Harlem), but he refused the request. read more >>
related: Concerning the murder of the Rev Martin Luther King, Jr & other covert Acts of State || Following Dr. King and Ending the Streetcar || Martin Luther King Videos
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Jan 16 2007
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The Movement Heats Up In Miami! |
If this week is any indication, the movement in Miami has come a long way, even since the FTAA protest in 2003. Here are some highlights of events and activities that have been happening in Miami this week. A diverse little list of events that shows that the movement is diversifying and growing here in Miami. January 9th--Miami Worker's Center started their search for the 1,178 families evicted from the old Scott-Carver housing project with an eight-foot-tall plywood wall in Liberty City.
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Jan 16 2007
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A weekend of events with Chicago Indymedia |
Chicago Indymedia welcomes you to not one but TWO events this weekend:
One — A fundraising evening of serious fun with CIRCA, the Clandestine Insurgent Rebel Clown Army. The evening will feature films from CIRCA — shutting down an army recruitment center in Leeds, blocking highways at the G8 in Scotland…plus a taster of basic rebel clown training, along with films from Oaxaca and an episode of Chicago Independent Television.
Friday, January 19, 7pm-10:30pm, at the Acme Artworks Community, 2418 W. Bloomingdale, Chicago (off Western, near the Western CTA Blue Line stop) | Read more
Two — Striking UAW musical instrument workers from Elkhart, Indiana who have out in the longest ongoing strike in the country will be in Chicago to appeal for labor solidarity and help screen a new film by labor historian Rose Feurer, "Mother Jones - The Most Dangerous Women in America"
Sunday, January 21, 2007, 2:00 PM, at ACME Artworks, 1741 N. Western Ave., Chicago (across the street from the Acme Artworks Community) | Read more
One — A fundraising evening of serious fun with CIRCA, the Clandestine Insurgent Rebel Clown Army. The evening will feature films from CIRCA — shutting down an army recruitment center in Leeds, blocking highways at the G8 in Scotland…plus a taster of basic rebel clown training, along with films from Oaxaca and an episode of Chicago Independent Television.
Friday, January 19, 7pm-10:30pm, at the Acme Artworks Community, 2418 W. Bloomingdale, Chicago (off Western, near the Western CTA Blue Line stop) | Read more
Two — Striking UAW musical instrument workers from Elkhart, Indiana who have out in the longest ongoing strike in the country will be in Chicago to appeal for labor solidarity and help screen a new film by labor historian Rose Feurer, "Mother Jones - The Most Dangerous Women in America"
Sunday, January 21, 2007, 2:00 PM, at ACME Artworks, 1741 N. Western Ave., Chicago (across the street from the Acme Artworks Community) | Read more
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Jan 16 2007
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SOU at risk for environmental health & safety |
Southern Oregon University ignores past violations and risks people's health and safety
I have sent the following letter to Oregon State Senator Alan Bates and Representative Peter Buckley. I needed to inform my elected officials about how planned job cuts increase the risks for serious injury and illness for Southern Oregon University's employees, its students, and the public. There are many problems with the university's delapidated old campus buildings. A history of ignoring serious health and safety violations is now a crucial concern as a top heavy administration has decided on employee cuts which ignore critical services provided by workers who have been pink-slipped. The risk is not acceptable and people need to know about this mismanagement of public money.
From the letter to Sen. Bates & Rep. Buckley: "...these layoffs may not be in the best interest of SOU. It is not uncommon by the way for environmental health and safety services to be cut when an organization finds itself in tough financial times. It is recognized by safety professionals that immediate savings often lead to long term liabilities which in the end are damaging not only financially but in ways that involve human suffering and public relation damages, too."
Read entire letter below. . . .
I have sent the following letter to Oregon State Senator Alan Bates and Representative Peter Buckley. I needed to inform my elected officials about how planned job cuts increase the risks for serious injury and illness for Southern Oregon University's employees, its students, and the public. There are many problems with the university's delapidated old campus buildings. A history of ignoring serious health and safety violations is now a crucial concern as a top heavy administration has decided on employee cuts which ignore critical services provided by workers who have been pink-slipped. The risk is not acceptable and people need to know about this mismanagement of public money.
From the letter to Sen. Bates & Rep. Buckley: "...these layoffs may not be in the best interest of SOU. It is not uncommon by the way for environmental health and safety services to be cut when an organization finds itself in tough financial times. It is recognized by safety professionals that immediate savings often lead to long term liabilities which in the end are damaging not only financially but in ways that involve human suffering and public relation damages, too."
Read entire letter below. . . .
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Jan 16 2007
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Images: Martin Luther King Day in Times Sq. |
Photographs from the Manhattan Country School MLK Walk and Troops Out Now rallies in Times Square: View Photos by fred askew
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Jan 16 2007
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The AJLPP-USA Year End Report, 2006 |
The AJLPP started as the Solidarity Committee for A Just and Lasting Peace in the Philippines (SolCom) that was formed by BAYAN International-USA with the International League of Peoples Struggle in the US in September 2002. The SolCom was able to gather more than 5,000 petitions, sent more than 2,000 signed postcards to the Europe, sold more than 500 books, issued thousands of postcards, hundreds of posters and buttons in its three years of action until AJLPP came into existence. It is worthwhile to look back and retrace the steps the AJLPP has taken during the last year 2006 so it can look forward in this current year 2007. It is but fitting to move forward with greater zeal and determination to serve the Filipino people and the Filipino American community in the United States.
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Jan 17 2007
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Brent Scrowcroft Says, In Iraq - Two Wrongs Make A Right |
On January 7th, 2007, Washington Stakeout asked Brent Scrowcroft, the NSA advisor for first Bush administration, 'where are the weapons of mass destruction?' and why the sanctions against Iraq continued if Saddam did comply with disarmament and had no weapons of mass destruction?
Here's Brent's answers: Video | www.washingtonstakeout.com
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Jan 17 2007
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ACT UP Austin Mourns Sunset Commission's Failure |
On Wednesday, January 10th, the Sunset Commission convened to vote on the report their staff had assembled in the audit of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The Sunset Commission was responsible for holding TDCJ accountable for the welfare of Texas inmates, and they utterly failed to address a growing crisis behind prison walls: HIV/AIDS.
Months before the decision, ACT UP Austin had presented the Sunset Commission with overwhelming evidence of the effectiveness of condoms as an HIV prevention tool. A recent study from the Centers for Disease Control showed HIV transmission occuring in prison, and recommended that the Department of Corrections in each state review their policies on condoms. Inmates reported using improvised barriers, such as breadbags and rubber gloves, showing that the demand for condoms exists, but is being ignored.
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Jan 17 2007
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Historic mobilizations will usher in "new phase" in Campaign for Fair Food! |
PLEASE CIRCULATE WIDELY! The Coalition of Immokalee Workers announces a major mobilization for farmworker justice, April 13 14, 2007, in the greater Chicago area. Make your plans to join us for historic actions that will usher in a new phase in the Campaign for Fair Food. CIW: "Today, we are tired, in the words of Martin Luther King Jr., of`relying on the good will and understanding of those who profit by exploiting us.'"
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Jan 17 2007
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Jan 11 rallies against Iraq occupation surge |
On Jan. 11 at 6 pm, about 60-80 people joined at the Texas Capitol south gates to call for an end to the Iraq occupation by the US and to oppose President Bush's plan to surge more US troops into Iraq. Later, another group of 30-40 people which had gathered at City Hall marched up Congress Avenue and we welcomed them. With our voices, signs and banners and bells and drums, the gathered assembly made a pretty strong chorus rejecting occupation and more military action in Iraq and possible other military attacks against Iran that the Bush administration is unwisely contemplating. The best part of the gathering for me was witnessing the marked increase in the gestures of solidarity shown by passers by: many, many peace signs, honks and waves. An encouraging change in Austin and throughout the country, at long last.
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Jan 17 2007
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Free Guatemala Documentary Film Series |
Come and learn about the struggle for justice in Guatemala. Sunday, Jan 7th 7pm @ Monkeywrench Books "Sipakapa NO Se Vende" —-Analyses the debate on mining exploitation and demonstrates the dignity of the Sipakapan People as they fight to defend their autonomy in the face of encroaching megaprojects. Monday, Jan 8th 8pm @ Cafe Mundi "Caminos Del Silencio" —-This documentary portrays the life of the farmers of the Ixcan region in the jungles of Guatemala who were on the run from persecution since the 1982 extermination campaign by the military government. It depicts the survival strategies of these farmers, their strategies of communal life, their strong will to stay in Guatemala, and their silent resistance Tuesday, Jan 9th 9pm @ SpiderHouse Cafe "When the Mountains Tremble" —-As the first film to depict this previously unreported war, it is firmly anchored by the firsthand accounts of Rigoberta Menchú, a Quiché Indian woman known around the world for her humanitarian efforts. Throughout the imminent chaos and danger, Menchú provides courage and optimism in a time where death squads kill without conscience and an oppressive dictator seizes power. Followed by short talk about the current situation in Guatemala.
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Jan 17 2007
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Beehive Collective presenting at Monkey Wrench Books |
The Beehive Collective will be presenting a sneak preview of our long awaited graphic about Plan Puebla Panama (PPP). the PPP is an overarching development plan slated to alter the face of mesoamerica forever. This is considered by many to be a death sentence for traditional cultures throughout the central american region and has met with many inspiring forms of grassroots resistance. It's a picture-lecture to be understood by anyone – not just the experts and political analysts! JOIN IN as we de-construct the complex and overwhelming issues that are shaping our world, using bio-regionally accurate depictions of animals and insects as metaphors to link cultural and ecological diversity. Thursday, January 18th @ 8pm MonkeyWrench Books 110 E. North Loop
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Jan 17 2007
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National Conference for Media Reform Honors King's Legacy |
MEMPHIS - Speeches evoke the civil rights movement while urging a new generation of activists to mobilize for better media. On the weekend before Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday, headliners at the National Conference for Media Reform evoked the legacy of the civil rights movement while rallying more than 3,500 attendees for media reform. "The nettlesome task about which Dr. King spoke is still being carried out by people who embody character, courage and the fortitude to make decisions in support of truth not spin, people who critically embrace diversity and reject monopoly," actor and activist Danny Glover told the crowd Friday.
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Jan 17 2007
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Mapping Racial and Economic Inequality in NYC Health Care |
Health Care That Works is a new website designed to visually illustrate the economic and racial disparities that exist in New York City's health care system, and drive all New Yorker's of conscience to take action by emailing their elected officials.
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Jan 17 2007
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Jan 27 DC March: Contingent for Justice in the Middle East: Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon |
Connecticut United for Peace (CTUP), and Adalah-NY: The Coalition for Justice in the Middle East are calling for a national contingent to march against the occupation of Iraq, against the occupation of Palestine, against the attacks on Lebanon, against attacks and other aggressions on Iran and Syria, and for justice in all of the Middle East.
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Jan 17 2007
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The Subtle Process of Rewriting the History of Atlantic Yards |
I have a friend whom I get in arguments with about whether the news room at the NYTimes operates completely independently in its reporting about Atlantic Yards or if it feels the elbow of NYTimes owner and Bruce Ratner business partner Arthur Sulzberger Jr.
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Jan 17 2007
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Retract Fees for Access to Our Public Lands! |
Skyrocketing entrance fees in National Parks, widespread recreation site closures by the Forest Service AND WIDESPREAD IMPLEMENTATION OF FEES are attracting bipartisan opposition in Congress. The change from Republican to Democratic control and the subsequent shakeup of Committees and their Chairmen has opened a window of opportunity for a top-to-bottom review of national recreation policy. It's up to us, the American People, to take advantage of that opportunity and ACT NOW to persuade Congress to put the "public" back in public lands.
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Jan 17 2007
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!Raccoon Radio! a Northwest Audio Zine |
This issue of Raccoon Radio was first broadcast on Free Radio Olympia from 1pm to 2pm on Monday (1.15.07). Featured in this issue are: 
Raccoon Radio 1-15-07
- Robert Kam from Thurston County Television speaking on precarious position of local television stations because of the recent FCC decisions.
- An interview with Michael Cuzzort from Iraq Veterans Against the War with dj Rhino.
- Monica Peabody from the Olympia Welfare Rights Organizing Coalition speaking on ideas for WROC.
- And music by Mystery Solving Time!
Raccoon Radio 1-15-07
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Jan 17 2007
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Abortion Diaries Screening Marks 34th Roe v. Wade Anniversary |
the abortion diaries next week marks the 34th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. lucky for you, houston indymedia and the teen abortion assistance fund have just the event to help you remember this landmark decision. you can see a new film about women's abortion experiences. plus, hear from local pro-choice groups about the legal and logistical roadblocks facing Texas women who seek to exercise their reproductive rights.
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Jan 17 2007
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Wobblies march, picket Brooklyn warehouse |
On January 15, 2007, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, over one hundred and twenty IWW union members, supporters and labor movement allies marched on and picketed the warehouse of Handyfat Trading Inc. in Brooklyn. Ten days earlier, Handyfat owner Dennis Ho illegally fired nine workers in retaliation for their union activity, but allegedly over immigration status. Monday, Ho shut down Handyfat’s operations rather than face the picketing workers, at a loss of tens of thousands of dollars in business. Photos and Video here
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Jan 17 2007
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Interactive Map: Is Your Councilperson For Or Against Free Speech? |
As many onNYTurf regular readers are aware, the NYPD plans to impose severe restrictions on our right to publicly assemble ... To help New Yorkers learn where their City Councilor stands and how to contact them about this issue, I am proud to announce today the launch of a new map that tracks the City Councilors on this issue: The NYC No-Freedom Zones Map. [Read More and See Map]
"Right To Assemble" Blasts From The Past from NYC IMC: WEF 2002: Police Arrest 87 Peaceful Marchers || Chaos on February 15, 2003 || RNC Archive
"Right To Assemble" Blasts From The Past from NYC IMC: WEF 2002: Police Arrest 87 Peaceful Marchers || Chaos on February 15, 2003 || RNC Archive
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Jan 17 2007
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US military strike on Iran seen by April ’07; Sea-launched attack to hit oil, N-sites |
Washington will launch a military strike on Iran before April 2007, say sources. The attack will be launched from the sea and Patriot missiles will guard all oil-producing countries in the region, they add. Recent statements emanating from the United States indicate the Bush administration’s new strategy for Iraq doesn’t include any proposal to make a compromise or negotiate with Syria or Iran. A reliable source said President Bush recently held a meeting with Vice President Dick Cheney, Defense Secretary Robert Gates, Secretary of State Dr Condoleezza Rice and other assistants in the White House where they discussed the plan to attack Iran in minute detail.
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Jan 17 2007
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El Documental Abortion Diaries viene a la pantalla anunciando el aniversario numero 34 de Roe v. Wade |
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Jan 17 2007
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Marcha en Silencio da honor a la visión de Martin Luther King |
El sábado 13 de enero, miles de personas salieron a las calles al suroeste de Houston en el bulevard Martin Luther King para iniciar una marcha en honor al activista de derechos civiles: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Los participantes se reunieron en la esquina de Beekman y MLK Boulevard mientras otros llegaban al estacionamiento de la Universidad de Houston y después eran llevados al punto de inicio por el sistema de Houston MetroPara las ocho de la mañana las personas se empezaron a formar en el boulevard MLK mientras escuchaban el famoso discurso “I have a Dream.” Las personas que marchaban eran de diferentes afiliaciones como organizaciones fraternales, estudiantes de primaria y secundaria, SEIU, CRECEN, KPFT, iglesias, estudiantes abogando por el acta DREAM, y oficiales de la ciudad solo por nombras unos cuantos. [ lea la historia completa en ingles mas cobertura en video
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Jan 17 2007
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Bill Moyers in Memphis: Take Back the Media |
MEMPHIS - Legendary television journalist praises growing grassroots movement to Save the Internet. Journalist and author Bill Moyers denounced Big Media corporations Friday in a fiery speech that opened the National Conference for Media Reform in Memphis. Moyers told a packed house of more than 3,000 activists and organizers that the independent press is under sustained attack, with a few corporations conspiring with political leaders to create an Orwellian world "in which language conceals reality, and the pursuit of personal gain and partisan power are wrapped in rhetoric that turns truth to lies and lies to truth."
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Jan 18 2007
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Feb 1st & 2nd: Films from Mexico's Front Lines |
2006 has seen Mexico rocked by popular protests and social movments across the nation. From Lopez Obrador's 'Shadow Government' to The Zapatista's other campaign to the Police repression in Atenco to Uprising of teachers and other sectors in Oaxaca. It is impossible to find one narrative of what is taking place right now in Mexico. On February 1st and 2nd Houston Indymedia will host a series of short films from a number of film makers and media collectives based in Mexico and internationally.
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Jan 18 2007
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Walnut Creek Critical Mass |
Friday, January 19th will be the next Walnut Creek Critical Mass. Bicyclists will gather at Walnut Creek BART. Organizers plan to spread a message of peace, demanding the retraction of troops from Iraq and an end to the recent aggression on Iran. Participants have been asked to bring signs, noise makers, music, and other things to have fun.
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Jan 18 2007
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Indypendent Open House Tuesday, Jan 23rd., 7pm |
In lieu of a meeting where we sit around in a circle and talk about the story budget and our financial woes, we will be having a non-meeting where we eat, watch the movie "Indypendent" (by volunteer Amy Wolf, about the Indy) and talk about Indymedia and radical journalism. This would be a perfect meeting for new or nearly new volunteers to come to, and to bring their friends too, if interested.
Date and Time: Tuesday, Jan 23rd, 7pm. Location: 4 W 43rd St, between 5th and 6th Ave. Ste. 311
Date and Time: Tuesday, Jan 23rd, 7pm. Location: 4 W 43rd St, between 5th and 6th Ave. Ste. 311
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Jan 18 2007
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50 Shots and a Mule - New Documentary About Sean Bell Protests |
50 Shots and a Mule focuses on December 16 and December 22nd protests against police brutality sparked by NYPD murder of Sean Bell on his wedding day. The second part of the film was shot with a combination of regular and 360 degree "immersive" cameras.
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Jan 18 2007
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Demands For Media Justice Echo Dr. Martin Luther King’s Calls for Equality and in Memphis |
Media makers, critics, journalists, artists and organizers converged on Memphis over the weekend and their demands for media justice and equal representation echoed across the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, where a museum memorializes Doctor Martin Luther King’s struggle for civil rights. In the city where the besieged Dr. King’s voice would not be silenced, but forever amplified after his death, a cacophony of voices reconverged to challenge a media behemoth as oppressive now as the forces of inequality he decried then with such vigor and efficacy.
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Jan 18 2007
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Los Angeles Area Medical Cannabis Dispensaries Raided by DEA |
On Wednesday, January 17th, the DEA raided some 11 dispensaries in the Los Angeles area, primarily in West Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley. ASA is calling on patients, advocates, and city officials to protest the attack on safe access.
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Jan 18 2007
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Bare Breasts @ a Demo? / Missed Opportunity / Breasts Come to Visit |
From anonymous: I have a few comments to make regarding the masked female who exposed her naked breasts throughout last Thursday’s anti-war/anti-torture protest (Jan 11, 2007 @ 1st & Cedar in downtown SD). I think, I hope for the sake of the sanity of our movt, that most people who attended the protest agree that it was absolutely inappropriate for that young woman, or anyone for that matter, to behave in such an irresponsible & reckless way @ a demo. And such conduct could, if left un-checked, pose potentially serious political & legal consequences to the peace movt & its activists...
From Janice Jordan: Maybe the topless demonstrator had a reason for taking off her top; but none of the anti-war participants present at last weeks' event will know because fear kept them from approaching a naked woman. When I think about it, it is odd that activists were out in force to demonstrate against institutional murder, but couldn't find one person to ask the topless demonstrator "what is up"? And what is everyone afraid of, a half-naked body? Iraqi civilians are living through occupation, rape and annihilation! ...
From Rachel: For the movement to be sustainable, it has to allow for our indulgences in angry indignation, giddy display, nurturing through community, and art. For many of us, public demonstration is just as much about disrupting imperialism, as disrupting hierarchy, as disrupting patriarchy. How revolutionary are your boobs? I have to say, I haven't taken mine out in a while. Maybe we should...
--Read More of the Article and Comments--
From Janice Jordan: Maybe the topless demonstrator had a reason for taking off her top; but none of the anti-war participants present at last weeks' event will know because fear kept them from approaching a naked woman. When I think about it, it is odd that activists were out in force to demonstrate against institutional murder, but couldn't find one person to ask the topless demonstrator "what is up"? And what is everyone afraid of, a half-naked body? Iraqi civilians are living through occupation, rape and annihilation! ...
From Rachel: For the movement to be sustainable, it has to allow for our indulgences in angry indignation, giddy display, nurturing through community, and art. For many of us, public demonstration is just as much about disrupting imperialism, as disrupting hierarchy, as disrupting patriarchy. How revolutionary are your boobs? I have to say, I haven't taken mine out in a while. Maybe we should...
--Read More of the Article and Comments--
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Jan 18 2007
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Anti War Rally In Solidarity with Jan 27 March on Washington |
United for Peace and Justice (1500 organizations) is teaming with over 500 additional groups to march on Congress to insist the US get out of Iraq. Massive numbers are expected to rally and march around the Capital on January 27 at the start of a 3-day event.
Call for participation in an anti war rally Sat Jan 27, 2007 at 1 pm in front of the Federal Building: Saturday Jan 27, 2007 at 1 pm MoveOn will be holding an anti war rally in front of the Federal Bldg at 333 Las Vegas Blvd (downtown) in solidarity with the March on Washington.
LINKS: UFPJ January 27 Info | United for Peace | Act Now to Stop War and End Racism | U.S. Labor Against the War | D.C. Indymedia
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Jan 18 2007
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Photos & Videos: Peace Activists at MLK Parade |
The 2007 Martin Luther King Parade celebrated the great civil rights leader and included calls to "honor MLK" by ending the "racist war" in Iraq along with other U.S. aggression. Guests included Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Mother Love. From the Newswire: FULL REPORT WITH PHOTOS: ANSWER Anti-War Contingent at MLK Day Parade by Ian Thompson || Photos: Peace Activists at MLK Parade || 
VIDEOS: LAPD Orders ANSWER to Leave MLK Parade
NEW: Youth snatched up by LAPD at MLK parade by Copwatch
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Jan 18 2007
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Veterans Speak Out Against Iraq Occupation |
On Friday, January 5, 2007, I was honored to attend an event featuring former US servicemen who have the Courage To Resist the Occupation of Iraq. Dennis Kyne, a veteran of the first Gulf War, spoke for about 6 minutes, first a little about his own experiences and then setting the stage for Darrell Anderson, the feature speaker of the evening and a member of the organization Iraqi Veterans Against the War
Darrell speaks for 30 minutes about how he came to join the service, his experiences in Iraq and what led him to refuse redeployment and oppose the Occupation. "In January '03 I decided to join the military because, I was broke. I was tired of dealing drugs on the streets and I was tired of living with my grandparents and I was tired of not going to school and I was tired of being an American without healthcare." In his own words, he figured he could get "join the military. They'll give me 50 G's for college; they'll straighten me out."
Though his mom freaked out, telling him that he'll go to war, Darrel responded, "I want to go to war, I've been waiting my whole life to go to combat, to do something crazy like that. I don't have much to live for, what's me being dead going to matter? I'll be remembered as a great person, instead of that dude who worked at the grocery store." | read more >>
Dennis Kyne, MP3 | Darrel Anderson, MP3 | Iraqi Veterans Against the War
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Jan 18 2007
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Buffett's PacifiCorp sued for polluting Klamath River |
Klamath Riverkeeper sent a 60 day notice of intent to file a lawsuit today against Warren Buffett's PacifiCorp for polluting one of the nation's most important and controversial salmon rivers, the Klamath. Klamath Riverkeeper's lawsuit asserts that operation of the Iron Gate Dam hatchery has resulted in repeated violations of the Clean Water Act and is just one of the ways that PacifiCorp, as the owner of the four dams along the Klamath River, is destroying the River, its salmon runs, and the coastal fishing economies of the California and Oregon Coastline. | read more >>
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Jan 18 2007
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New prison dispatch from Jeffrey Free Luers |
For the last several years I have been writing about the causes and signs of global warming. I scour newspapers and science journals for the latest studies. It's no real surprise that the guy in prison for trying to call attention to global warming is writing about it. When I first came to prison global warming was a myth. I had to argue the facts in numerous interviews. Some journalists were convinced by my passion and knowledge and others dismissed me as crazy.
Now more and more attention is being given to climate change and its inherent dangers. Major media outlets are reporting on climate change on a regular basis. Just the other day the Register Guard reported that a 41 square mile chunk of Canada's arctic ice shelf had broken off due to climate change. Reporting that the remaining ice shelves are 90% smaller than when they were discovered in 1906 ('Ice shelf break blamed on climate change' 12-30-06).
Even the US government has now acknowledged the plight of polar bears that are threatened by climate change. However, I was shocked when the Oregon Department of Corrections recently put an article in the prison bulletin about the dangers of global warming!
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Jan 18 2007
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Pics from St. Louis MLK Day March 2007 |
Pictures of the 2007 March have been posted to the STLIMC Media Gallery. Thanks go out to the photographer who brought us these images. See also:
MLK day, New Orleans: St. Bernard Residents to go through Fence, Clean Out Apartments
CAPCR: Town Hall Mtgs on Police Shootings
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Jan 18 2007
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Uterus Liberation Front in South Dakota |
In order to defend a woman's right to control her own body and to support women lacking resources and access, a new collective has formed within South Dakota: the Uterus Liberation Front (ULF).
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Jan 18 2007
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Citizens Take On the Media: Let's Form a More Perfect Union |
"This is the moment freedom begins, the moment you realize someone else has been writing your story, and it's time you took the pen from his hand and started writing it yourself."
With these poetic words spoken by award-winning television journalist Bill Moyers last Friday, 3,000 citizens attending the National Conference for Media Reform broadcast a common concern for America: Too many enormous stories are never told, and the range of voices aired by local media seldom reflect their richly diverse communities.
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Jan 18 2007
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FCC Hearings Tonight in Philadelphia |
Massive layoffs at Inqy and WHAT raise issues about media ownership on the eve of public forum with FCC Commissioners
Local media suffers another blow in Philadelphia with recent layoffs of reporters and community broadcasters in the last two weeks. The Philadelphia Inquirer laid off over 100 reporters and ad sales staff while 1340 WHAT-AM let go all of its on-air personnel. This happened just as local activists have been preparing to host a public forum to discuss issues around media ownership and possible federal rule changes to allow more consolidation.
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Jan 19 2007
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Massive Anti-war March Planned for Jan 27 in DC |
MoveOn.org, National Organization for Women, Labor Unions Mobilize Members; Buses and vans coming from 30 states and 111 Cities
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Jan 19 2007
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Prisoners: New Regs May Deny Reentry of Genderqueer Folk to U.S |
Passports are now required for any citizen's reentry to the United States. This leaves the bulk of our genderqueer citizens locked out of the ability to enter and return to the US.
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Jan 19 2007
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Tigard residents organize against Wal-Mart |
Many residents of Tigard were alarmed this week after receiving anonymous survey calls designed to test attitudes about retail choice in the area, and to question their support for a new 24-hour "super store". For most participants, there was no doubt who was behind the calls.
To combat pressure from neighbors, Wal-Mart often keeps projects a secret as long as possible, limiting neighbors' time to organize opposition. Once a project is announced, the company works hard to find supporters. In Cedar Mill, Wal-Mart sent thousands of postcards asking neighbors to testify in support of the new store, or send written comments to local leaders.
A phone poll may be the newest way for Wal-Mart to identify local supporters, and this week's survey has neighbors worried that an official proposal could be coming soon.
To combat pressure from neighbors, Wal-Mart often keeps projects a secret as long as possible, limiting neighbors' time to organize opposition. Once a project is announced, the company works hard to find supporters. In Cedar Mill, Wal-Mart sent thousands of postcards asking neighbors to testify in support of the new store, or send written comments to local leaders.
A phone poll may be the newest way for Wal-Mart to identify local supporters, and this week's survey has neighbors worried that an official proposal could be coming soon.
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Jan 19 2007
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Student marches in Greece, 17 January 2007 |
National marches were organized by many student associations in Athens and Thessaloniki, where more than 270 faculties are occupied by students, protesting against the revision of the constitutional article 16, introducing the establishment of private universities. Mainly however, is undertaken the subordination of academic stupidity to the enterprising and economic plannings, as well as the intensification of student subjugation through more demanding schedules, imposition of maximum time of studies, additional academic expenses etc.
The course in Athens, began around 14:00, with attendance of more than 15.000 demonstrators. A bit earlier there was an attack with Molotov cocktails against riot-policemen who blockaded some streets around the technical university, while in the morning a CCTV camera was set on fire outside the technical university. Reaching to the march's ending some groups of demonstrators, burned 5 government and diplomatic vehicles, 2 CCTV cameras, and clashed with the police. Later the afternoon, many demonstrators went to the technical university, which is occupied by anarchist groups in solidarity to the 3 detainees of May 6th (2 of them are on a hunger strike). Cops tried to attack the occupied building but were forced to recede.
Riot in Athens |  Police clash with anarchists in Athens (pics) | Greece: Anarchists take over the Polytechnic University in solidarity to the May 6 prisoners | read more >> |
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Jan 19 2007
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The Maya Survivors Vs Los Genocidios |
Last month marked the ten-year anniversary of the signing of the Peace Accords in Guatemala — an agreement that ended nearly four decades of extreme state-led violence. The army's so-called "counterinsurgency" efforts, allegedly aimed at ridding the country of guerrilla combatants, claimed the lives of more than 200,000 people while displacing more than 1.5 million others, the overwhelming majority of whom were indigenous Maya.
Antonio Caba, an Ixil Maya activist who currently serves as president of the Association for Justice and Reconciliation (AJR), lives in the highlands of El Quiche — the Guatemalan state hardest hit by the military campaign. Some 344 of the 669 massacres committed by the army against Maya villages occurred within El Quiche; an estimated 14.5 percent of all Ixil Maya were killed.
Elias Lawless met up with Antonio to hear about his experiences following the massacre, his forced participation in Ilom's civil patrol, and his risky departure. This is the first of a two-part interview, also published at WireTap.
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Jan 19 2007
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Okies set to join national peace march on 1/27 |
Others invited to join the caravan Activists to join National Peace March on January 27, meet with Oklahoma representatives and senators. Activists to join National Peace March on January 27, meet with Oklahoma representatives and senators.
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Jan 19 2007
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Anti-Torture, Habeas Corpus Protesters Have Their Day In Court |
16 people demonstrated near The white House in October as the president signed the Military Commissions Act of 2006. There trial was Wednesday.
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Jan 19 2007
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Jazz and Justice - Dr. King Tribute |
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Jan 19 2007
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The Company Towns of Greater Yellowstone |
In Big Sky, Montana, some residents are trying to keep the Big Sky Resort from housing employees in the same motel where some guests will also be staying. This essay talks about that in terms of the larger "company town" atmosphere that prevails in Greater Yellowstone. We can only hope that the fears of lower property values offered by the very rich of Big Sky come to pass.
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Jan 19 2007
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Protest ouside Lockheed's HQ in Bethesda |
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, people demonstrated outside Lockheed's office in Bethesda. Video
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Jan 19 2007
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Smash G8 in Germany 2007 |
From 4th to 7th of June 2007 the G8-Summit in Heiligendamm, in the proximity of Rostock, in Germany takes place. Also the mobilization of the Left wing against the G8-Summit already runs on full speed. Different alliances are founded,several nationwide meetings did take place, also with international participation and an approximate plan of action for the protests is already fixed. Already now there are numerous actions, which mobilize to the events of protest against the G8-summit. Because of the 100.000 expected demonstrators at the Main Manifestation in the Rostock City at 2nd of June 2007 the police forces are preparing since some time their operation and security plan for the whole region and for Rostock. Here comes an overview over the conditions of the mobilization. | read more >>
G8 police raids in Munich
in Munich different places were raided by the police. Named as a reason was the call to blockade the airport Rostock-Laage published in several brochures and in the call for protests against the so called security-conference [a privately organized sub-summit where politicians, weapons industrials and NATO-generals harmonize their strategies] | read more >>
It´s not the Berlin Wall - It is 12 miles fence around the G8
The fence consisting of 4,600 dark green steel segments weighing 75 kg (165.3 lb) will be 2.5 meters (8 ft 2.4 in) high and 2.45 meters wide. The segments are attached to cement pillars weighing 900 kg each and topped with razor wire - to prevent anyone from tunneling beneath the fence, 50-cm long steel grating is also being sunk into the ground. | read more >>|
Jan 19 2007
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Nat Needle takes on the Worcester Memorial Auditorium & City Hall Politics |
City Manager O'Brien is recommending $100,000 to fund a study for possible re-uses of the Worcester Auditorium, but that's not until 2009. Until then, Worcester is responsible for $113K of the building's yearly operating budget as well as $200K on average in debt payments until 2018.
In the midst of the much heralded Northern Gateway Project, plans for the AUD seem non-existent, with the exception of community activist, musician and businessman Nat Needle's new proposal.
Needle's not content with transforming the AUD, he taking on transforming City Council hall rancor as well. Memorial Auditorium Proposal | Even More Advice for Konnie Lukes
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Jan 19 2007
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Punk Rock Benefit Raises hundreds for Green Scare Defendant Daniel McGowan |
On Saturday January 13th nearly a hundred mostly young folks gathered at Southmore House, just east of downtown Houston to support Daniel McGowan, and listen to face melting music, including Death of a Tyrant, Humanicide, Dissent and Die Young.
Daniel McGowan is an environmental and social justice activist from New York City. He was charged in federal court on counts of arson, property destruction and conspiracy, all relating to two actions in Oregon in 2001. Daniel is one of more than a dozen environmental activists that have been swept up by law enforcement in what is being dubbed the Green Scare.
The government is seeking a sentence of eight years and arguing for a "terrorism enhancement" of up to 20 more years, while Daniel's lawyers will seek a sentence of no more than 63 months. Read the full article | SupportDaniel.org | Houston Indymedia/ABC radio show on The Green Scare | PHOTO: Juan Ramirez
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Jan 19 2007
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Carmel Hotel Workers Win Struggle for Better Contract |
Carmel, CA. Union workers at the Quail Lodge voted Wednesday, January 17, to ratify a new union labor contract with the hotel. 89 percent of the voting members of UNITEHERE! Local 483 approved the 3-year deal, which calls for up to $3.65 per hour in additional wages and benefits over the life of the contract. The raises are retroactive to August 1, 2006.
A tentative agreement reached late Friday avoided a Quail Lodge management-threatened lockout of the 150 hotel union employees on Monday, January 15. The contract vote ends a confrontational 5-month negotiation process, including an employee strike authorization vote, several public demonstrations at the hotel with over 100 participants, and the union's sixteen legal filings with the federal National Labor Relations Board against the hotel.
"It took us a while, but we ended up with a good total package to help our families. We kept our health plan. We got good raises, some more in our pension fund, and another paid holiday," said Quail Lodge maintenance worker and Local 483 negotiating committee member, Sergio Vasquez.
The Union contract at Quail Lodge follows similar agreements dating back to September at the Hyatt Regency Monterey, Park Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Monterey Beach Resort, Bay Park Hotel, La Playa Hotel, Asilomar Conference Center, and Pine Inn. While the 3-year term of the Quail Lodge agreement is one year shorter than the other contracts, the wages in the second and third year are higher. The eight union contracts cover more than 1,000 hospitality workers on the Monterey Peninsula. The Hilton Garden Inn, Lodge at Pebble Beach, Carmel Mission Inn, and Monterey Bay Travelodge are the remaining area hotels where new union contracts are yet to be negotiated.
A tentative agreement reached late Friday avoided a Quail Lodge management-threatened lockout of the 150 hotel union employees on Monday, January 15. The contract vote ends a confrontational 5-month negotiation process, including an employee strike authorization vote, several public demonstrations at the hotel with over 100 participants, and the union's sixteen legal filings with the federal National Labor Relations Board against the hotel.
"It took us a while, but we ended up with a good total package to help our families. We kept our health plan. We got good raises, some more in our pension fund, and another paid holiday," said Quail Lodge maintenance worker and Local 483 negotiating committee member, Sergio Vasquez.
The Union contract at Quail Lodge follows similar agreements dating back to September at the Hyatt Regency Monterey, Park Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Monterey Beach Resort, Bay Park Hotel, La Playa Hotel, Asilomar Conference Center, and Pine Inn. While the 3-year term of the Quail Lodge agreement is one year shorter than the other contracts, the wages in the second and third year are higher. The eight union contracts cover more than 1,000 hospitality workers on the Monterey Peninsula. The Hilton Garden Inn, Lodge at Pebble Beach, Carmel Mission Inn, and Monterey Bay Travelodge are the remaining area hotels where new union contracts are yet to be negotiated.
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Jan 19 2007
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TV Commercials on Buses and Trolley? |
Corporate America has gone too far. Now local San Diego governmental agencies and transportation companies have allowed for the installation of noise polluting TVs to be put on city buses and the Metro Trolley so as to drown commuters with a deluge of audio assault. Thankfully most buses have yet to be transformed. This invasive technology seems to be slowly introduced into city buses and trolley cars. Perhaps the instigators expect less resistance if this bane is slowly introduced? You may have witnessed the slow and random intrusion of TVs on some buses?
Recently an editorial in the Los Angelos Times, “Bus-see TV”, announced that Transit Television Network TNN has installed 4,700 television monitors on over 2000 buses on the last few years trying to capitalize on 18 to 34 year olds as potential disposable income market. But why should people of all ages (many riders are elderly) be subject to the smarmy, hyper-kinetic, jolt-noisome noise, and non-intellectual crap marketed to young people?--Read More--
Trolley riders may be less affluent financially but they are not the fools some seem to think. The time has come to say: “Stop!!” “You forget who is the customer—who may not always be right—but who is sometimes justifiably indignant in his or her opinion—and his or her opinion does in fact matter.”
Transit TV Marketing Website
Recently an editorial in the Los Angelos Times, “Bus-see TV”, announced that Transit Television Network TNN has installed 4,700 television monitors on over 2000 buses on the last few years trying to capitalize on 18 to 34 year olds as potential disposable income market. But why should people of all ages (many riders are elderly) be subject to the smarmy, hyper-kinetic, jolt-noisome noise, and non-intellectual crap marketed to young people?--Read More--
Trolley riders may be less affluent financially but they are not the fools some seem to think. The time has come to say: “Stop!!” “You forget who is the customer—who may not always be right—but who is sometimes justifiably indignant in his or her opinion—and his or her opinion does in fact matter.”
Transit TV Marketing Website
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Jan 19 2007
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Klamath Riverkeeper to Sue Warren Buffett's PacifiCorp For Polluting River! |
The Klamath Riverkeeper is planning to sue the second richest man in the world for polluting the Klamath River!
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Jan 19 2007
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Rep. Earl Blumenauer's Yellow Response to Call for Impeachment |
Dear Rep. Blumenauer,
I am deeply disappointed by your poor excuses for not performing your duty and impeaching Bush and Cheney for their many heinous crimes.
The decision to impeach or not is not meant to be one of political strategy but of justice. Remember that Nixon was nearing the end of his term when he was about to be impeached, and he resigned rather than be subjected to the process, even though his crimes pale in comparison to Bush and Cheney's.
I am deeply disappointed by your poor excuses for not performing your duty and impeaching Bush and Cheney for their many heinous crimes.
The decision to impeach or not is not meant to be one of political strategy but of justice. Remember that Nixon was nearing the end of his term when he was about to be impeached, and he resigned rather than be subjected to the process, even though his crimes pale in comparison to Bush and Cheney's.
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Jan 19 2007
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Washington County Peace Vigil 1-17-07 |
About 25 people assembled this evening to remind people that Chimpy's performance on 60 Minutes is just not acceptable. Continue to call your representatives and let them know to stop the funding and hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
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Jan 19 2007
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Renowned Mexican Human Rights lawyer Joins Brad Will Case |
The Will family is pleased to have the renowned Mexican human rights lawyer, Miguel Angel de Los Santos Cruz, join the cause for justice in the case of Bradley Roland Will's death.
Brad, a New York based photojournalist and activist, was shot and killed in Oaxaca, Mexico last October 27th while videotaping the turmoil in the Mexican State. Although two government-affiliated suspects were initially held for the murder, they were released by Oaxacan state authorities in late November on claims of insufficient evidence. A number of human rights groups have questioned the legitimacy of the state investigation and are calling for the case to be moved to the federal level.
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Jan 19 2007
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Resist International "Coaltrans Americas" Coal Convention Jan31-Feb1 |
This is a call to take action & demonstrate against the Jan 31-Feb 1 "Coaltrans Americas" convention happening at the Ritz-Carlton on Key Biscayne, Miami's "premier luxury oceanfront resort and spa," located on the southernmost barrier island in the United States & 5 miles driving from downtown Miami ... a perfect secluded retreat for 21st century coal barons, or ideal spot for creative protest actions they'll never expect?
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Jan 19 2007
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US President Orders Military To Begin Jailing All Civilian Protestors To War |
US President Orders Military To Begin Jailing All Civilian Protestors To War
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Jan 19 2007
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Over 1000 Military Personnel Call for Withdrawal from Iraq |
"As a patriotic American proud to serve the nation in uniform, I respectfully urge my political leaders in Congress to support the prompt withdrawal of all American military forces and bases from Iraq . Staying in Iraq will not work and is not worth the price. It is time for U.S. troops to come home."A press conference was held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Norfolk on January 15, 2007 (Martin Luther King Day) to formally announce a military "Appeal for Redress" in connection with the conduct of the Iraq War. Members of active duty military and National Guard, Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW), Veterans for Peace (VFP), Military Families Speak Out (MFSO) and the Virginia Antiwar Network (VAWN) were among those who spoke to the public and press. Read more>> | appealforredress.org
<< Photo: Jonathan Hutto, US Navy-Norfolk. More photos by Garrie Rouse
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Jan 19 2007
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An Interview with Fariba Nawa On Afghanistan's Future |
In recent months, the escalating violence in Afghanistan has begun creeping back into the headlines. Most of the stories have focused on the resurgence of the Taliban and the accompanying suicide bombings, assassinations of Afghan politicians, and deaths of US and NATO soldiers. Much of the blame has been placed on insufficient coalition troop levels, the under-paid and under-trained Afghan National Army, and anger in the Muslim world regarding Iraq. Unfortunately, the gross mismanagement, epidemic corruption, and massive failures of the US-led reconstruction of Afghanistan have been mostly ignored.
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Jan 19 2007
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Berkeley Housing Authority Crisis Deepens |
On March 1, 2007, a reduction in federal housing voucher payments goes into effect in Berkeley which places 750 Section 8 families at risk of major rent increases, forced relocation, or the loss of their housing vouchers in a worst case scenario. In an effort to speak out against the life threatening cuts to their housing vouchers, Section 8 tenants had planned to go to the January 30th, Berkeley Housing Authority (BHA) meeting, until they learned during mid January that the meeting had been canceled.
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Jan 20 2007
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Media Reform? |
Interviews with the "other" people at this year's National Conference on Media Reform
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Jan 20 2007
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Libby’s Trial Crafted to Protect Bush-Cheney Gang |
Instead of going after the cabal that lied the country into the Iraqi War, Special Counsel, Patrick J. Fitzgerald, focused on only one defendant, Irving “Scooter” Libby. He also made sure no conspiracy count was utilized in the indictment against him. V.P. Dick Cheney will not testify at Libby’s trial. Fitzgerald, who has close ties to Rudy Giuliani, will continue to make sure that nothing comes out to hurt the interests of the Bush-Cheney Gang.
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Jan 20 2007
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Surge Protection Brigade Strikes Again: Nonviolent Resisters Shut Down Recruitment Center |
"Mission Accomplished for today," says the Surge Protection Brigade, as their planned protest at the military recruitment center on NE Broadway and 13th apparently caused the center to shut down for the day. The group gathered at the center this morning at 11:45 and stayed until 1:30. One recruiter came to the center toward the end of the protest, saying he had paperwork to do. He refused to let them in and locked the door as a couple of the protesters tried to force their way in.
A group of grandmothers from the Brigade visited the office Thursday and attempted to dialogue with the recruiters. Many of the women's questions about the health and safety of recruits went unanswered, and the recruiters admitted that they did not offer any information to potential recruits about depleted uranium exposure or the risks involved in a tour of duty in Iraq.
A group of grandmothers from the Brigade visited the office Thursday and attempted to dialogue with the recruiters. Many of the women's questions about the health and safety of recruits went unanswered, and the recruiters admitted that they did not offer any information to potential recruits about depleted uranium exposure or the risks involved in a tour of duty in Iraq.
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Jan 20 2007
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Overflow Crowd Turns Out for Beaver St. Antiwar Lecture |
An overflowing crowd gathered at the 16 Beaver St. cultural space Wednesday night to listen to a pair of radical scholars discuss the future of the U.S. occupation of Iraq. The length of the question-and-answer session, which evolved into a way for audience members to express their own frustrations and concerns with the situation in Iraq and American leadership and the need to create grassroots opposition, made the event more than a lecture. Anthony Arnove || Michael Schwartz || Jan. 27 March on Washington
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Jan 20 2007
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Planned Parenthood Houston Marks Roe v. Wade Anniversary |
Planned Parenthood held a large luncheon on Friday January 19 at the Westin Galleria on Alabama, an annual event marking the anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision.
Several hundred people attended the event including notable public figures like Sarah Weddington, who at the age of twenty-six argued the winning side of the Roe v. Wade case. There were also several elected officials present including State Reps Alma Alan, Elen Cohen, and Rick Noriega; City Controller Anise Parker; and City Councilmembers Sue Lovell and Peter Brown. Volunteers, donors, staff, and other supporters filled the tables. Outside, on the sidewalk, about ten anti-abortion protestors held up signs and passed out pamphlets..[full report+photos]
To remember the landmark court decision, Houston Indymedia and the new Teen Abortion Assistance Fund of Houston will host a film screening of The Abortion Diaries on Wednesday, January 24 at Rice Cinema 8pm. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion More Info | Flyer
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Jan 20 2007
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Victory for Animal Liberation Activists: POM to Stop Testing on Animals |
Activists have been after POM to stop needless animal testing for some time. POM used the testing to try to help bolster their marketing claims regarding pomegranate juice. But the heat was turned up lately by activists and POM Wonderful has relented and decided to stop conducting animal vivisection. This was a relatively quick and easy victory, although POM's intentions to not farm the experimentation of animals out to other firms remains unclear. Read More>>>Related: PETA's Youth Activist Website's Can You Believe That Juice Is Tested on Animals? | PETA's POM Horrible campaign
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Jan 20 2007
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State board poised to deny Medford Wal-Mart |
After almost three years of debate, the decision on a proposed Wal-Mart will be back in the hands of the Medford City Council. Fresh faces on the Council are likely to consider neighborhood concerns and impose strict requirements for new development. Opponents are hopeful that the project can be defeated once and for all, and are rallying public support.
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Jan 20 2007
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Rally to End Skid Row Sweeps |
Since last August, Skid Row's homeless people have undergone the largest mass arrests of homeless people in L.A. history; hundreds of homeless people each month now have faced multiple daily raids of police demanding warrant checks, searches and property confiscation --as waves of 50 new LAPD officers brought to the area have swept through for daily beatings and arrests of homeless people --in order to now clear downtown for the newest wave of luxury loft developers. Full report by unhoused
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Jan 20 2007
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Cost to New Hampshire of Iraq War |
Even before an additional 20,000 troops are sent to Iraq, NH citizens and businesses will pay about $1.5 billion for Iraq war this year. That sum equals nearly one-third of the entire state budget and would pay for health care for one-third of the state's residents.
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Jan 21 2007
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After-Mass Screening: Live Nude Girls Unite! |
Feeling a bit frosty with the sudden blast of winter weather we're experiencing? Want to get warmed up—quick? Do strippers and/or radical labor organizing give you heart palpitations? Then come out this Friday and get hot watching strippers—unionize that is!
Rochester Indymedia presents Live Nude Girls Unite! for our January After-Mass screening. This is a labor film about the formation of a strippers union. This is not a porn film.
Additional Information: Article 23 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights | COYOTE | Exotic Dancers Alliance | Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWAP-USA)
Rochester Indymedia presents Live Nude Girls Unite! for our January After-Mass screening. This is a labor film about the formation of a strippers union. This is not a porn film.
Additional Information: Article 23 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights | COYOTE | Exotic Dancers Alliance | Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWAP-USA)
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Jan 21 2007
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SAW Response to Job Fair Cancellation |
Students Against War is greatly saddened by the decision of the Administration to cancel the Career Fair previously scheduled for January 31st, 2007. As students ourselves we fully understand the need to find employment. We recognize the loss of the Career Fair is a loss of opportunity for UCSC students. This loss is compounded by the short notice of this cancellation and the infrequency that job fairs are held on this campus. UC Berkeley, for example, has 8 career fairs scheduled (including a fair with the title "Nonprofit/Public Service Career Fair") for its Spring Semester as opposed to UC Santa Cruz's 1 per Quarter. This averages out to about 1 Career Fair a month, providing constant, easy access to employment opportunities for UC Berkeley students. Read more
see related: "Free Speech" Versus the Military || UC Santa Cruz Administration Sabotages Student-Run Career Event
see related: "Free Speech" Versus the Military || UC Santa Cruz Administration Sabotages Student-Run Career Event
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Jan 21 2007
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Wither the Anti-War Movement? |
As the Iraq War heats up, can the anti-war "movement" respond? After mobilizing hundreds of thousands in the days before the invasion, war opponents seem content to march in circles and hope the Democrats get their act together. "In a country where more than 70% of population is against escalation," one reader comments "where IS EVERYONE?"
United for Peace and Justice will hold yet another mass rally on January 27. Read what NYC IMC contributors have to say about it.
Radical Youth Bloc for Upcoming DC Protest || Massive Anti-war March Planned for Jan 27 in DC || Bush's Iraq War Escalation Provokes Growing Opposition || Peace Parades Can't Stop the Surge and Slaughter || UFPJ needs your help on January 27
United for Peace and Justice will hold yet another mass rally on January 27. Read what NYC IMC contributors have to say about it.
Radical Youth Bloc for Upcoming DC Protest || Massive Anti-war March Planned for Jan 27 in DC || Bush's Iraq War Escalation Provokes Growing Opposition || Peace Parades Can't Stop the Surge and Slaughter || UFPJ needs your help on January 27
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Jan 21 2007
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Nunca se Acaben La Cosecha de Maiz! |
The Boredom Patrol of the rebel clown army performs at the Zapatista Corn Harvest festival in Escondido, CA. The performance shows the horizontality of the Zaptistas and the dangers of GMO corn which motivated the Mother Seeds in Resistance project to create GMO free corn sanctuaries around the world. The video is in spanish and english with spanish subtitles, but we may post an english subtitled version soon if people want one.
La Patrulla Aburrida del Ejercito de Paysa@s Rebeldes hace una performance en la Festival de Cosecha de Maiz Zapatista en Escondido, CA. La performance mostra la horizontalidad de los Zapatistas y las amenazas del maiz transgenico, que motivo el proyecto Semillas Madres en Resistencia para crear santuarios para maiz Zapatista sobre el mundo. El video es en español y ingles con titulos en español, pero podemos hacer una con titulos in ingles si gente quieres.
Low quality youtube version | High qualioty quicktime at video.indymedia.org | Zapatista Corn Festival at La Milpa Organica | Zapatista Corn
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Jan 21 2007
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President Chavez: Nationalise Sanitarios Maracay! |
Solidarity with the Bolivarian Revolution....... We welcome the recent decisions of Venezuelan president Hugo Chávez to ask for an Enabling Law that will allow for the renationalisation of all privatised companies. This represents a reversal of the economic policies followed by most governments around the world. Sign the petition on the Hands Off Venezuela website.
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Jan 21 2007
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Action Alert: Texas Jail Project - Advocacy for Women |
Austin to Dallas, January 23rd, with Press Conference
Deterioriating Conditions at the Dallas County Jail warrant this! Please support this group! ...
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Jan 21 2007
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Army Proceeds With Spc. Augustin Aguayo's Court Martial |
Conscientious objector Spc. Agustin Aguayo will be arraigned by the Army in Germany Monday, January 22nd, on charges including desertion which carries a possible penalty of seven years imprisonment. The Army is proceeding with this court martial despite precedents which give regular federal courts jurisdiction over CO cases.
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Jan 21 2007
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Defender of Habeas Corpus award to Rep. Ron Paul and Lee Loe |
On Saturday, January 20th, Congressman Ron Paul and Lee Loe received Defender of Habeas Corpus awards in Alvin, Texas at the Knights of Columbus Hall. The Military Commissions Act of 2006 revoked the writ of habeas corpus. The vote in the Senate was 65 yeas to 34 nays, with 1 not voting. In the House, the bill passed with 250 yeas, 170 nays with 12 not voting. Ten Texas Representatives are among the defenders of habeas corpus. Video: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 | Photos: 1, 2
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Jan 21 2007
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Bolivarian Youthers Attacked by Luis Posada Carriles Supporters in Little Havana |
Thursday's (Jan. 18) front page of the Miami Herald featured an article that called the most notorious terrorist in the western hemisphere, Luis Posada Carriles, an "anti-castro militant" without going over his long terrorist record. The Herald printed a sidebox with the article announcing the pro-posada "rally"; something that this newspaper has never done for the anti-war community. Faced with the Herald's most unethical coverage of this pro-terrorist group, we, the Bolivarian Youth, had to counter the rally firmly opposing all forms of terrorism.
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Jan 21 2007
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Copps Unveils New American Media Contract |
MEMPHIS -- FCC Commissioner Announces Plan to Replace 'Bad Old Media Bargain' with Agenda for a More Democratic Media. FCC Commissioner Michael J. Copps challenged thousands gathered at the National Conference for Media Reform to enact a new “American Media Contract,” calling for citizens to stand up and "get rid of the bad old rules that got us into this mess in the first place." Commissioner Copps discussed the “American Media Contract” the next day at a panel in the ballroom of the Memphis Cook Convention Center.
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Jan 21 2007
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Worcester BrainShare University Kicks-Off |
Worcester has a long history of skillshares and freeskools. You can now add the Worcester BrainShare University to that list. Worcester BrainShare University is kicking-off with classes including music theory, winter-time animal tracking and robot making. BrainShare University aims to provide grown-ups and youth with a space to learn and teach. The idea of BrainShare is to provide a learning environment that's intellectually stimulating, practical, informative and fun. Read more...
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Jan 21 2007
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Anne Feeney Agitates Ashland's Workforce |
Labor singer Anne Feeney delivers a message of solidarity and empowerment in Ashland Oregon as close to 70 community members, union and non-union workers, self-employed workers, family and friends gathered to benefit community radio, Jobs with Justice and a local workforce facing layoffs and cutbacks.
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Jan 22 2007
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Rockville Starbucks Store Unionizes with I.W.W. |
Employees at a Starbucks store here announced their membership in the IWW Starbucks Workers Union [www.StarbucksUnion.org] today and served a list of demands on their manager including a living wage, secure work hours, and the reinstatement of union baristas illegally fired for organizing activity.
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Jan 22 2007
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Community Unites to face cold, wage slavery |
Despite the below-freezing wind chill and icy patches on the ground, New Yorkers showed yet another display of endurance as more than 50 people converged in Brooklyn to demand an end to Handyfat Trading Co.’s union-busting activities. In early January, Handyfat management illegally fired nine workers for union activity, despite the company’s claims they were fired because of their immigration status.
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Jan 22 2007
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People's Peace Conference - New Jersey, Leading the Way |
Officially titled “The U.S. War in Iraq & Our Communities. Breaking the Silence: The Grassroots Speak”, hundreds and hundreds of peace and justice activists of all ages and colors came out in the bitter Jersey cold to attend the all day peace conference and workshops organized by longtime Newark activist Larry Hamm and his organization, People’s Organization For Progress.
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Jan 22 2007
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An Open Letter Calling Others to Oppose A Garbage Transfer Station in Brooklyn |
Please add your name to this open letter opposing the garbage transfer station planned for Southwest Brooklyn. Also, very important public meeting opposing the garbage transfer station in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn on Thursday, January 25, 7:30 pm, at Shore Parkway Jewish Center, 8885 26th Avenue, between Cropsey and Harway Avenues, Brooklyn. To sign on, just send an email to mitchelcohen(at)mindspring.com
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Jan 22 2007
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Bolivia: one year into the Morales government |
Popular assembly in Cochabamba on January 16
On Tuesday, January 16th, a massive cabildo abierto (popular assembly) in Cochabamba, Bolivia's third largest city, decided to remove the prefecto (regional governor) and forced the consejeros departamentales (regional councillors) to install a people's prefecture. In doing so the masses, who have been on the streets since the beginning of the year, went over the heads of MAS aligned leaders of many of the peasant and trade union organisations and directly against the advice of the MAS government which recommended calm, negotiation and keeping everything within the legal framework.
This was the highest point of a developing mass movement for the resignation of the prefectos of La Paz and Cochabamba who have sided with the opposition prefectos of Santa Cruz, Beni, Pando and Tarija (the lowlands crescent of Bolivia) in their struggle for autonomy from the MAS national government and to defend their right of veto in the Constituent Assembly.
On Tuesday, January 16th, a massive cabildo abierto (popular assembly) in Cochabamba, Bolivia's third largest city, decided to remove the prefecto (regional governor) and forced the consejeros departamentales (regional councillors) to install a people's prefecture. In doing so the masses, who have been on the streets since the beginning of the year, went over the heads of MAS aligned leaders of many of the peasant and trade union organisations and directly against the advice of the MAS government which recommended calm, negotiation and keeping everything within the legal framework.
This was the highest point of a developing mass movement for the resignation of the prefectos of La Paz and Cochabamba who have sided with the opposition prefectos of Santa Cruz, Beni, Pando and Tarija (the lowlands crescent of Bolivia) in their struggle for autonomy from the MAS national government and to defend their right of veto in the Constituent Assembly.
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Jan 22 2007
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Citizens' Hearing on Legality of Iraq War and Occupation |
About 400 people gathered each day to hear testimony before the Citizen's Hearing on the legality of the U.S. actions in Iraq. It is important to note that only one national TV station showed up to cover this event, and that station was from Japan. The mainstream media ignored this event.
This Tribunal was necessary because Lt. Ehren Watada has refused to deploy to Iraq. "It is my duty as a commissioned officer in the United States army to speak out against grave injustices," he stated. "My moral and legal obligation is to the constitution. Not to those who issue unlawful orders. I stand before you today because it is my job to serve and protect American soldiers and innocent Iraqis who have no voice. It is my conclusion that the war in Iraq is not only morally wrong, but also a breach of American law."
This Tribunal was necessary because Lt. Ehren Watada has refused to deploy to Iraq. "It is my duty as a commissioned officer in the United States army to speak out against grave injustices," he stated. "My moral and legal obligation is to the constitution. Not to those who issue unlawful orders. I stand before you today because it is my job to serve and protect American soldiers and innocent Iraqis who have no voice. It is my conclusion that the war in Iraq is not only morally wrong, but also a breach of American law."
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Jan 22 2007
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Portland IMC Newsletter for Jan. 21, 2007 |
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Jan 22 2007
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Folic Acid Inundation Not Such a Good Thing After All - Especially for Vegetarians/Vegans |
You know, about 9 years ago the US govt mandated that all grain foods in the US be fortified with the B vitamin folic acid. Their reasons seemed sound enough: it had been learned that a shortage of folic acid around the time of conception can damage fetuses. Specifically, babies were more likely to be born with open neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. But I remember at the time being concerned about the wisdom of supplementing an entire population in order to address a problem that, although devastating, affects such a tiny fraction of the population. (Even prior to the supplementation, the risk of spina bifida was less than 1 percent.) It seems that my concerns have been born out, especially for those of us who do not eat meat.
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Jan 22 2007
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"We Love Our Dogs" (Diva Dog report back) |
I went to see Diva Dog and Off the Chain last night. It was a free show, presented by the rescue organization Positively Pitbull. Actually, I intended to just see Diva Dog, and was assured by one of the presenters of this event that it would play first. I had been warned that Off the Chain was brutally graphic, and I did not want to subject myself to the images I knew it would contain. So I kind of resent the fact that, despite assurances to the contrary, they showed Off the Chain first, and I was forced to sit through it. ("Everyone should see this," I was told by a presenter. However, given the setting -- a room full of people who love dogs and animal rights activists who are already in the struggle against dog fighting -- I am not sure that it was necessary to subject us all to that. It was roughly akin to going to a gathering of radical vegans, and forcing them to sit through slaughter house videos... I mean, we know that already, that's why we're here.)
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Jan 22 2007
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January 22nd "Pill Bottle Dumps" to Demand an End to the DEA Raids |
On Monday, January 22nd DEA "Pill Bottle Dump" actions will be held at local federal buildings around California. Events have been scheduled for 12pm at federal buildings in cities such as Sacramento. The US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has raided a number of California dispensaries and grow facilities in the last two months. This has limited safe access to cannabis for bona-fide patients statewide. Americans for Safe Access is demanding an end to DEA raids on patients and providers who are abiding by state law.
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Jan 22 2007
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Indypendent Open House, Tuesday Jan. 23rd., 7 pm, |
Built by volunteer journalists, artists and activists, The Indypendent is now in its seventh year and still thriving on the energy and dedication of its volunteer writers, editors, photographers, illustrators and graphic designers. To find out more about how to get involved, come to our Winter Open House on Tuesday Jan. 23 at 7 p.m. at our office on 4 W. 43rd St., Suite 311. We will have lots of food, drink, Q & A discussion and a screening of a short film about The Indypendent by NYC Indymedia videographer Amy Wolf. ||Indypendent.org || Community Reporting Workshops || The Indy Sweeps the Ippies || Where I Can Find The Indypendent || "There isn't a better place to develop a love of journalism." || Most Recent Issue
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Jan 22 2007
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Boston Delegation to the World Social Forum 2007 in Nairobi Kenya Proposes Intercontinental Unity in the Struggle for Migrant Workers Rights in the World |
This activity seeks to demonstrate the need to join forces in the world to confront the injustices of a condition created by contemporary capitalism: large masses of migrant workers desperately seeking work to survive. In that process they are abused, victimized, exploited and discriminated.
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Jan 22 2007
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Words From Exile: Suheir Hammad performs at The Proletariat 1/25 |
Words From Exile: Suheir Hammad performs at The Proletariat 1/25
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Jan 22 2007
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Watch/Read Wakeup Call Host, Deepa Fernandes, Media Justice Speech on You Tube |
Free Press Plenary Speech, Memphis, TN, Jan 13, 2007
by Deepa Fernandes
"There is a very fundamental question that we are all here in Memphis to answer, and that question is exactly what I want to go right to tonight. It’s not a difficult one. But it is one that demands we act together as if our lives depended on it, because for many of our communities, they do. Put simply the question is this: What does media reform mean to us?...." Read More>> | Watch Video
by Deepa Fernandes
"There is a very fundamental question that we are all here in Memphis to answer, and that question is exactly what I want to go right to tonight. It’s not a difficult one. But it is one that demands we act together as if our lives depended on it, because for many of our communities, they do. Put simply the question is this: What does media reform mean to us?...." Read More>> | Watch Video
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Jan 22 2007
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Miami SuperBowl Week-of-Action Against Gentrification, Jan 29 - Feb 3 |
The County of Miami/Dade has lied to, deceived, and abandoned its people. Developers' greed and political corruption have left residents to fend for themselves in the face of a severe and widely recognized housing crisis. In one of the most severe cases, Miami's Hope VI Plan shut down the Scott-Carver Project's 851 units of public housing, replacing them with only 80 units. Meanwhile, city officials vote to destroy Black and Latino/a neighborhoods by giving away public land to erect condos for an influx of richer, whiter residents.
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Jan 22 2007
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Feds Attempt to Censor Twin Cities Indymedia |
On January 5th, members of the Twin Cities Indymedia Collective were contacted by an ally at the out-of-state university that hosts the site's server, informing us that "law enforcement" was demanding that we remove two posts from the site.From the Collective's contact at the university:
"The Office of General Counsel at the university was contacted by federal authorities about the fact that an FBI agent was named publicly on this website, which is of significant concern as it could be a threat to national security and to the security of this officer." Read More>>
Past Coverage: 12/25/06: More State Repression | 9/13/06: FBI Continues to Harrass Activists
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Jan 22 2007
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Kennedy calls for Congressional authorization of "surge," dodges oil profit question |
Coming out of the studios of Meet The Press today [Sunday, Jan. 21], Senator Edward Kennedy (D-MA) said he expected President Bush to "describe a different Iraq than … most Americans understand and recognize" in Tuesday's upcoming State of the Union address. He also said "the American people are entitled to require the President to come to Congress to get an authorization…."
Kennedy noted that the previous authorization of force was predicated on allegations of Hussein's government violating UN resolutions, the alleged Iraqi possession of "Weapons of Mass Destruction," and alleged links with Al Qaeda. The latter points being conditions now widely acknowledged not to have existed (although the Senator did not acknowledge that directly).
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Jan 22 2007
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In Remembrance: Women Who Died from Illegal and Unsafe Abortions |
The seven women below are just a small representation of the countless women who have died because they did not have access to safe and legal abortions. Most of these women died before Roe v. Wade offered them a safe alternative. However, women continue to die and suffer injury due to current restrictions that particularly affect young women and poor women. Our government is now controlled by conservative leaders who are extremely hostile to women's reproductive rights. 1/22/07 5pm Vigil: Supreme Court, 1st & E. Capitol Streets NE Who Decides? Status of Women's Reproductive Rights In the United States || Meet the Father of the "Right to Life" Movement
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Jan 22 2007
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BioJustice 2007: Organizing Gets Underway |
On Saturday, January 20th, around thirty people gathered to plan a week of activities in protest of an upcoming meeting of the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO). In May, BIO will convene in downtown Boston; organizers anticipate a large, energetic counter-convergence involving many factions of the movement against biotechnology.
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Jan 23 2007
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WHY IS LEONARD STILL IN PRISON? |
Yes!, American Indian Movement Activist, Leader and Warrior Leonard Peltier is STILL IN PRISON! The 6th of February 2007 marks the 31st Anniversary of the illegal arrest and false imprisonment of Political Prisoner Leonard Peltier.
According to one of Mr. Peltier's lawyers, Barry Bachrach, "virtually every known AIM leader in the United States was incarcerated in either state or federal prisons since (or even before) the organization's formal emergence in 1968, some repeatedly. After the 1973 siege of Wounded Knee (SD), for example, the FBI caused 542 separate charges to be filed against those it identified as “key AIM leaders”. This resulted in only 15 convictions, all on such petty or contrived offenses as “interfering with a federal officer in the performance of his duty”.
FREE LEONARD PELTIER!
Please write Leonard Peltier:
Leonard Peltier # 89637-132
USP Lewisburg, U.S. Penitentiary
P.O. BOX 1000
Lewisburg, PA 17837
Links: Leonard Peltier Defense Committee | Defense Committee Blog | Leonard Peltier on Wikipedia | Free Leonard Peltier | COINTELPRO
According to one of Mr. Peltier's lawyers, Barry Bachrach, "virtually every known AIM leader in the United States was incarcerated in either state or federal prisons since (or even before) the organization's formal emergence in 1968, some repeatedly. After the 1973 siege of Wounded Knee (SD), for example, the FBI caused 542 separate charges to be filed against those it identified as “key AIM leaders”. This resulted in only 15 convictions, all on such petty or contrived offenses as “interfering with a federal officer in the performance of his duty”.
FREE LEONARD PELTIER!
Please write Leonard Peltier:
Leonard Peltier # 89637-132
USP Lewisburg, U.S. Penitentiary
P.O. BOX 1000
Lewisburg, PA 17837
Links: Leonard Peltier Defense Committee | Defense Committee Blog | Leonard Peltier on Wikipedia | Free Leonard Peltier | COINTELPRO
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Jan 23 2007
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Coalition offers alternative to militarized MLK day parade |
A new San Diego coalition offers an alternative to the militarized Martin Luther King Day parade. The event was organized by the King/Chávez Coalition for Justice and Unity, which was formed after last’s years King Day Parade. A diverse group of community members came together to discuss what to do about the parade, which had been moved out of the community and had become disturbingly militarized and completely co-opted by corporate interests. The King Day Parade has turned into a tourist attraction that represents everything that Martin Luther King was against. Organizers plan to return to this park in 2008, but to also have a march through the community to the park.Related: Community Retakes Legacy Of Martin Luther King, Jr. | Is The Official San Diego Martin Luther King Jr Parade Too Official? | Beyond Vietnam -- A Time to Break Silence: Audio and Text
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Jan 23 2007
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Kenya Indymedia Coverage of the 2007 World Social Forum |
Kenya Indymedia is now providing coverage from the 2007 World Social Forum in Narobi, Kenya. Several Independent Media Center members are now in Narobi to support an Indymedia convergence during the seventh annual World Social Forum which runs January 20-25th. Media activists from Africa and around the world will be reporting in the World Social Forum, providing hands-on media production workshops, building two low-power radio stations in Kenya, and creating dialogue and cooperative production across borders. An internet web streaming station is now up and running at radio.Africa-web.org
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Jan 23 2007
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Fresno Candlelight Vigil in Support of Roe v. Wade |
Supporters of Roe v Wade gathered for a Candlelight Vigil in front of the Federal Courthouse in Fresno to honor the on-going struggle for reproductive justice then traveled to the local Planned Parenthood Education Center to view & discuss the film Motherhood by CHOICE Not Chance, by award winning film maker Dorothy Fadiman. Photos
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Jan 23 2007
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January 29th Action in San Jose for Medicine Lake |
On Monday, January 29th, native peoples and supporters will protest Calpine's plans for a power plant that would be built at Sacred Medicine Lake near Mt. Shasta. They will gather for a rally at 10am at Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park, and they will march at 12pm to Calpine's office at 50 West San Fernando Street. Protesters plan to deliver an eviction notice to Calpine Corporation as part of the day's events. Organizers are asking that rally participants wear red and bring signs. An action training is being planned for Sunday, January 28th.
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Jan 23 2007
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Meeting in Point Richmond About Chevron Fire |
On Monday, January 15th, there was a fire at the Chevron refinery in Richmond. Richmond residents in the immediate vicinity of Chevron refinery were outraged by the lack of warning about the accident-- there were no audible sirens or warnings via the telephone system that broadcasts information in in English and otherlanguages. According the Contra Costa Health Department, the telephone warning system was only activated in Point Richmond because of the wind direction. On Wednesday January 24th, Contra Costa County will be sponsoring a meeting in Point Richmond in regards to the fire, at 7pm at the Washington Elementary School, 565 Wine Street (near Cutting Blvd).
Related:Coverage of Dec. 2006 "Richmond and the Philippines" protest | Communities for a Better Environment | Asian Pacific Environmental Network
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Jan 23 2007
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Pro-choice activists counterprotest anti-choice marchers |
On Monday, January 23 at 5 PM at the Supreme court, pro-choice activists had to elbow their way in to get the right wingers to give enough space for a planned counterprotest. Once we were finally set up, speakers reounted horrific tales of life before Roe vs Wade.
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Jan 23 2007
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Bear Creek Trail – Smith Mountain - Buddhist Youth Group volunteers |
On January 21'st, the San Gabriel Mountain Trailbuilders teamed up once again with the Buddhist Youth Group that we had worked with previously on 20/Nov/2005.
The trail restoration, maintenance, and building effort is part of an on-going program in the San Gabriel River Ranger District of the Angeles National Forest to provide reasonably safe recreation to the region's six or seven million "local" residents.
The region is unique. As a "pocket forest" surrounded by heavily and densely populated cities, on any given week end during the Summer the San Gabriel River Ranger District can boast of having 10,000 visitors and that number of people bring with them a number of problems, some of which (such as erosion, pollution of drinkable water, the building of wading pools along the river using rock dams, and medical mishaps caused by falling) can be mitigated by the efforts of volunteer organizations such as the SGMTBs.
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Jan 23 2007
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"Homeless" Tent Encampment in Olympia Feb 1 |
On February 1, the "Poor" Peoples Union of Olympia, WA will set up a "homeless" tent encampment in response to a new city ordinance which goes into effect on February 1, making it virtually illegal to be on the street ("homeless") in Olympia. The exact location will not be revealed until the last minute, however it will be a highly visible protest. The eventual goals are to find a permanant location where the people can have a long term, autonomously run encampment and locations where people can be housed in autonomous, democraticly run communities.
The Poor People's Union, since its inception, has sought to overturn the ordinances targeted at the "homeless". Our intitial idea was to have a referendum on the ordinance and gather enough signatures for it. Over the past weeks, however, it has become clear that the PPU will not be able to expediently stop the ordinances from going into effect and has decided to put a referendum off for the time being.
The Poor People's Union, since its inception, has sought to overturn the ordinances targeted at the "homeless". Our intitial idea was to have a referendum on the ordinance and gather enough signatures for it. Over the past weeks, however, it has become clear that the PPU will not be able to expediently stop the ordinances from going into effect and has decided to put a referendum off for the time being.
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Jan 23 2007
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Columbia Estuary Industrialization |
Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will be holding two hearings to receive public input regarding how it should evaluate the impacts of multiple large industrial projects along the Lower Columbia. Tuesday, Jan. 23 in Knappa, OR. Tuesday, Jan. 31 in Clatskanie. This is your chance to tell DEQ that you want them to stand up for the Columbia Estuary and take a strong stance against LNG and Coal projects that threaten the water, land, air and people of the Estuary.
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Jan 23 2007
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Citizens Tribunal, day 2 only |
Today (day 2) began with a 2.5-hour drive (including a rest coffee stop) to the campus building in my friend, Marion Ward's hybrid. Marion is very active in Vets for Peace and other peace groups. Initially we saw 3 videos featuring Francis Boyle, Marjorie Cohn and Eman Khammas. Khammas is an Iraqi journalist and human rights advocate who told about the horrors the Iraqi's endure daily and how her daughter could not take living in fear anymore, and left the country. Khammas feared for her life also, and is sought asylum in Spain where she lives today.
Two Iraq war veterans, Darrell Anderson and Chanan Suarez-Diaz gave front-line accounts. Anderson was in Portland recently and while I read his account on Indymedia, it is NOT the same as hearing him live. I had tears in my eyes during his talk. He was ordered to shoot even civilians if a shot came in their area, however, he never shot his rifle even once the entire time! Diaz shot his rifle 5 times, but never at a civilian. Some who resisted have returned to the US from Canada as a result of Watada's and others speaking out.
Two Iraq war veterans, Darrell Anderson and Chanan Suarez-Diaz gave front-line accounts. Anderson was in Portland recently and while I read his account on Indymedia, it is NOT the same as hearing him live. I had tears in my eyes during his talk. He was ordered to shoot even civilians if a shot came in their area, however, he never shot his rifle even once the entire time! Diaz shot his rifle 5 times, but never at a civilian. Some who resisted have returned to the US from Canada as a result of Watada's and others speaking out.
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Jan 23 2007
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Video: Irv Ackelsberg Announces Candidacy for City Council District 8 |
"With humility and confidence, with compassion and determination with a deep sense of responsibility and a desire to serve, I stand before you today to announce my candidacy in the May democratic primary for city council for the eighth district." With these words, Irv Ackelsberg launched his intrepid campaign to win a seat on city council against incumbent Donna Reed Miller. In symbolic political style, Ackelsberg announced his candidacy from the porch of his home in Germantown speaking to traditional democratic values of transparency, social justice and direct civic participation. Present were over 100 neighbors, supporters and allies.
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Jan 23 2007
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Jan. 27 National Washington D.C. Peace March: Spread the Word! |
Dear friends of United for Peace & Justice, The Iraq Study Group report calls for major changes in U.S. policy in Iraq -- but doesn't call for the only change that will help solve the horrible crisis there: Bringing all the troops home, now. Join us in the streets of Washington, D.C., on Saturday, January 27, to deliver a resounding message to the new Congress: We don't want half measures that will only prolong the bloodshed. It's time to bring an immediate end to the war! Here's how you can get involved and help make January 27th the biggest possible demonstration for peace:
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Jan 23 2007
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Oklahoma peacemakers organizing bus to DC for 1/27 march |
Reserve your place immediately to ensure bus trip A bus will leave Tulsa on Friday, return Tuesday. 32 reservations needed. OKC solidarity rally also planned A bus will leave Tulsa on Friday, return Tuesday. 32 reservations needed. OKC solidarity rally also planned. Donations needed to fund seats for those not able to pay. All details follow "read more" link.Let's get a lot of Oklahomans to this event: MARCH ON WASHINGTON 1/27EDUCATION AND LOBBYING ACTION 1/28 AND 1/29 http://www.unitedforpeace.org
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Jan 24 2007
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Know Your Rights & Resist the Police State Workshop |
Wednesday, Jan. 24th
4:30 to 6:30pm
Lincoln and CedarResisting the Police State: A Free Skool Santa Cruz Workshop
Know your "rights" before you find yourself in hot water. Keep yourself safe from police repression. Take the Know Your Rights Quiz and see how much you know. Detentions, arrest, searches, interrogation, jail, warrants, and police infiltration.
Our system of laws exists to maintain the dominance of those in power, and the police are its armed enforcers. If you doubt this for a minute, look at who are the selective targets of local laws: The homeless, the young, the poor, dissenters. Globally, look at who dies and who gets rich from our wars and other disasters.
For 250 years in this country, the government and their enforcers have consistently fought against people working for liberation: Indigenous resistance, land reformers, slave revolts, abolitionists, labor organizers & workers, free-speech advocates, women and civil rights workers, anti-war and anti-globalization protesters, and recently, animal rights and environmental activists.
Read more, download a poster and handbill
4:30 to 6:30pm
Lincoln and CedarResisting the Police State: A Free Skool Santa Cruz Workshop
Know your "rights" before you find yourself in hot water. Keep yourself safe from police repression. Take the Know Your Rights Quiz and see how much you know. Detentions, arrest, searches, interrogation, jail, warrants, and police infiltration.
Our system of laws exists to maintain the dominance of those in power, and the police are its armed enforcers. If you doubt this for a minute, look at who are the selective targets of local laws: The homeless, the young, the poor, dissenters. Globally, look at who dies and who gets rich from our wars and other disasters.
For 250 years in this country, the government and their enforcers have consistently fought against people working for liberation: Indigenous resistance, land reformers, slave revolts, abolitionists, labor organizers & workers, free-speech advocates, women and civil rights workers, anti-war and anti-globalization protesters, and recently, animal rights and environmental activists.
Read more, download a poster and handbill
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Jan 24 2007
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Webeditorial Meeting, Wed. Jan. 31st, 6:30 p.m. LAVA |
YOU ARE INVITED to the next Editorial meeting of the Philadelphia Independent Media Center Wednesday, January 31, 6:30p.m. on the second floor of the Lancaster Avenue Autonomous Zone, 4134 Lancaster Avenue (take the #10 trolley to 42nd and Lancaster.) We will be discussing outreach, resource pages, upcoming projects, and our editorial process, among other topics.
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Jan 24 2007
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City Cannot Keep Materials from Republican National Convention Secret, Federal Court Rules |
In a sweeping decision, federal judge James C. Francis IV ruled that the NYCLU is free to make public extensive NYPD documents, deposition testimony, and videotapes about all aspects of the Convention, including mass arrests, conditions at Pier 57, and various policies deployed by the Department during the Convention.
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Jan 24 2007
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New Orleans Tenants Face Eviction by Unnatural Causes Right Now! |
A friend of mine called last night from New Orleans; he and several other people are occupying apartments in the St. Bernard Housing Development, which the Housing Authority of New Orleans plans to demolish and redevelop, leaving thousands of tenants homeless. The city of New Orleans plans to get an injunction against the residents returning to their apartments, as well as against the occupation, as early as tomorrow. The folks inside suggested an email/phone campaign to bring the occupation and the demands of the occupiers to light. For background, you can go to survivorsvillage.com or neworleans.indymedia.org or commongroundrelief.org.
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Jan 24 2007
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Alberta oil sands and nuclear energy surge: outrageous proposals |
The Alberta oil sands have been proclaimed as the greatest greenhouse gas producer in Canada. Now there are two outrageous proposals to quintuple the supply for US greed and consumption and to address the climate change issue by using nuclear power to fuel the oil sands production.
More stories on the Environment: Earth First Enemy, Pacific Lumber Co. files bankruptcy | Global Warming in North Central US | Earth is Losing its Ability to Absorb CO2? | Global Warming: Here Are the Hard Facts | Climate Change: Rising Seas creates 70,000 Climate Refugees
More stories on the Environment: Earth First Enemy, Pacific Lumber Co. files bankruptcy | Global Warming in North Central US | Earth is Losing its Ability to Absorb CO2? | Global Warming: Here Are the Hard Facts | Climate Change: Rising Seas creates 70,000 Climate Refugees
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Jan 24 2007
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8 Former Black Panthers Arrested and Indicted in 1971 Homicide |
January 23, 2007 - New York: Authorities in San Francisco today announced the arrests and indictments of former Black Panthers in the 1971 killing of police officer Sgt. John V. Young despite the use of torture to obtain confessions. Attorneys with the Center for Constitutional Rights (CRR) compared the documented torture by law enforcement of Black Panthers arrested in New Orleans in 1973 to the documented torture the U.S. government has practiced recently at Abu Ghraib and Guantánamo.
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Jan 24 2007
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Has HUD No Heart? HANO Sues Residents to Keep Them From Their Own Homes |
HUD has initiated a lawsuit against public housing residents and their allies for reopening and cleaning their homes in the St. Bernard development. Residents point to their legal, civil and human rights as justification for their confidence that HANO’s retaliatory lawsuit will be dismissed. As legal lease-holders of apartments largely undamaged by hurricane Katrina who are merely seeking to expedite their return by cleaning up the complex themselves, residents and their allies hold faith that the court and public opinion will find in their favor. "The residents who are cleaning their apartments have current leases and therefore have a legal right to enter their homes," said Endesha Juakali of Survivor’s Village. HUD’s legal action at this point appears to be a rearguard effort to undercut the forward momentum of the Right of Return Movement. Read More... | VIDEO: Volunteers clean out returning residents' apartments
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Jan 24 2007
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Schumacher Fur Story: from an ex-employee! |
I worked for schumacher fur for a short time...
Funny story: A woman brought in a (i shit you not) leopard skin coat-which was over 50 years old, so not TECHNICALLY illegal. The fur was simply beautiful, and I told the woman who owned it that it was "Beautiful, but really kind of sad to see," to which she replied "why would you say that?" and I said "because it's from such a beautiful animal that's now dead." (do I know what to say to fur owners or what?)
Funny story: A woman brought in a (i shit you not) leopard skin coat-which was over 50 years old, so not TECHNICALLY illegal. The fur was simply beautiful, and I told the woman who owned it that it was "Beautiful, but really kind of sad to see," to which she replied "why would you say that?" and I said "because it's from such a beautiful animal that's now dead." (do I know what to say to fur owners or what?)
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Jan 24 2007
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Infoshop Opens at Liberty Hall |
An infoshop is now available in the basement of Liberty hall 311 N. Ivy St. The infoshop offers tons of radical zines and pamphlets for reading. Community computer access with internet is also available.
Now people can read zines and pamphlets as well as books available in the radical library also in Liberty Hall's basement. Help keep this effort going by bringing by copies of your zines.
Liberty Hall's basement is not yet wheelchair accessible. Plans to make it accessible may or may not be underway. Contact Liberty Hall at 503-249-8888 or just stop by for more information.
Now people can read zines and pamphlets as well as books available in the radical library also in Liberty Hall's basement. Help keep this effort going by bringing by copies of your zines.
Liberty Hall's basement is not yet wheelchair accessible. Plans to make it accessible may or may not be underway. Contact Liberty Hall at 503-249-8888 or just stop by for more information.
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Jan 24 2007
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Feb. 5th PDX to Ft. Lewis Bus Trip for National Day of Action at Watata's Court Martial |
On Monday, February 5 join fellow Portlanders as we travel to Ft. Lewis Washington to support First Lieutenant Watada during his military court martial. As the first Army officer to publicly speak out against the war and refuse deployment to Iraq, Lt. Watada faces a maximum six years in prison. Watata supporters are coming from around the country to this historic day of action to support his courageous stand against an illegal war.
American Friends Service Committee, Recruiter Watch PDX and Veterans for Peace Chapter 72 invite you to join us on a chartered bus from Portland to Ft. Lewis to stand with Lt. Watata. Our friends at Code Pink are also organizing a car caravan. Either way, we hope you can make it to stand with Lt. Watata and say no to the war in Iraq.
American Friends Service Committee, Recruiter Watch PDX and Veterans for Peace Chapter 72 invite you to join us on a chartered bus from Portland to Ft. Lewis to stand with Lt. Watata. Our friends at Code Pink are also organizing a car caravan. Either way, we hope you can make it to stand with Lt. Watata and say no to the war in Iraq.
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Jan 24 2007
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Make Open Forums Truly Accessable - Read And CALL the Governor Today |
A call for action on the DOE's open forum policy: On Monday, The Department of Education for the State of Maine announced several forums to address the proposed Regional Schools Re-Districting Plans. The first of these forums is slated to happen tonight, in Lewiston, at the Lewiston Middle School at 7 PM. While there are several very troubling aspects to the proposals, such as the complete inequality of the size and student bases of each proposed district, it is the process of these public forums that should outrage anyone interested in education in the State of Maine.
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Jan 24 2007
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The Unthinkable: The US-Israeli Nuclear War On Iran |
The World is at the crossroads of the most serious crisis in modern history. The US has embarked on a military adventure, "a long war," which threatens the future of humanity.
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Jan 24 2007
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Rally Against the War Jan. 27th 3pm City Hall |
Statewide march on the Capitol to coincide with national marches. Meet at 3pm at City Hall on January 27th, 2007 to call for immediate withdraw of U.S. troops from Iraq. A coalition of local activist groups called Stop The War Coalition- Austin has planned a statewide anti-war march in solidarity with national gatherings in major cities such as New York, San Francisco and Chicago. The nonviolent action will call for the end of war and the immediate withdraw of United States military from Iraq. The march will convene at Austin City Hall at 3:00 pm on January 27, 2007 and the march to the Texas Capitol will commence at 3:30 pm. Music and speakers will greet the marchers at the Capitol grounds and City Hall. Speakers will include Hart Viges of Veterans for Peace, Texas Green Party Co-Chair Dr. Douglas Reber, Peter Christie of the Palestinian Solidarity Committee and representatives from Campus Antiwar Movement to End the Occupation, Arab American Anti Discrimination Committee and Anti Racist Action. All anti-war Texans are invited to attend. See also: BTL:Bush's Iraq War Escalation Provokes Growing Opposition || The Occupation: Veteran Correspondent Patrick Cockburn Reports from Iraq || Bush Escalates Iraq War with 20,000 More Troops; Threatens Iran, Syria with Military Action || Col. Gardiner's Warning: Pieces in Place for Escalation
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Jan 24 2007
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Behind the executioner's mask: U.S. 'justice' and the hanging of Iraqi judge Awad Hamad al-Bandar |
An attorney's essay by Mara Verheyden-Hilliard
On Dec. 26, 2006, the Appellate Court of the Iraqi Special Tribunal announced that Judge Awad Hamad al-Bandar, along with Saddam Hussein, was to be put to death. With an initial filing made immediately that night and over the next two weeks, the writer and Carl Messineo of the Partnership for Civil Justice, working with former U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark, sought emergency relief to stop the U.S. government from transferring Judge Bandar to what was an extra-judicial killing.
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Jan 24 2007
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The Peoples’ Counter State of the Union Message |
George W. Bush, the Liar-in-Chief, did his thing on Tuesday night, Jan. 23, 2007. He delivered another one of his so-called “State of the Union” messages to the Congress, on Capitol Hill. Outside the building, however, by the reflective pool, activists, like: Col. Ann Wright, Medea Benjamin, Jeffrey Milliard and Travis Morales, offered a true representation of the state of our nation. They demanded an end to the Iraqi War and bringing our troops home.
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Jan 25 2007
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Tenth Day of Occupation Protesting Razing of Public Housing |
MayDay NOLA, a housing advocacy group, is entering the tenth day of the St. Bernard housing project occupation. The group is protesting plans to raze and then rebuild public housing developments and is calling on the Department of Housing & Urban Development and Housing Authority of New Orleans to call off the demolitions and negotiate with residents. HANO & HUD have responded by filing an injunction that alleges public housing residents and MayDay NOLA "...have trespassed upon HANO property at the St. Bernard Housing Development, have committed vandalism, and have damaged HANO property.""We don't know how they think that it's illegal for people to come back to their own property," Bill Quigley, counsel for the public housing residents and MayDay NOLA. The residents have not received eviction notices or any communication from HANO or HUD regarding their leases. "The residents... have current leases and therefore have a legal right to enter their homes," says organizer Endesha Juakali of Survivors Village. Interview with Occupants | Take Action to Save Housing | Support the Occupation
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Jan 25 2007
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Death Penalty: Recent News & Facts |
The issue of the death penalty has been in the spotlight recently, both here in Ohio and elsewhere. This article is a mixture of news briefs followed by an in-depth report on the death penalty. Read More...
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Jan 25 2007
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Santa Cruz: A Pro-Choice City |
The Santa Cruz City Council passed a resolution on January 24 declaring Santa Cruz a pro-choice city. Cynthia Mathews, a Santa Cruz City Council member and co-founder of Planned Parenthood in Santa Cruz, co-sponsored the resolution dubbing Santa Cruz a pro-choice city. "...We thought it was important for the city to go on the record" says Mathews.
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Jan 25 2007
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Washington County Peace Vigil 1-24-07 |
About 60 people assembled tonight to demonstrate against Chimpy's lame SOTU speech. Hat's off to senator Webb for his rebuttal.
Jim Webb of Virginia was selected to give the Democratic response to Bush's SoTU, and boy, did they make the right choice. Webb hit all the right notes, his points impressive and unassailable. Rather than even dignify the fearmongering and drawing of parallels of 9/11 to aggression in the Middle East, Webb just pointed out that the Democrats are representing the will of the people in their desire to see an end to the quagmire and that if Bush didn't want to listen to the people that put him in office, the Democrats would lead him to the will of the people.
Petition delivered to Gordon Smith's office this morning in downtown Portland
Over 10,000 signatures were delivered to Senator Smith's assistant urging our Senator to vote for the resolution opposing escalation in Iraq.
Here are a few photos from the event. Koin and KGW sent camera crews and reporters to the event.
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Jan 25 2007
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Baird's "Town Hall" meeting in Vancouver |
Baird will be in Vancouber WA this week. I hope folks will join me in asking him some tough questions about the war and impeachment.
Congressman Brian Baird will host two town hall meetings on Thursday, January 25 and Friday, January 26. The town halls will focus particularly on the Iraq war, the federal budget and deficit. This is also an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on issues and legislation, and for Congressman Baird can hear ideas on how government can serve constituents better.
Congressman Brian Baird will host two town hall meetings on Thursday, January 25 and Friday, January 26. The town halls will focus particularly on the Iraq war, the federal budget and deficit. This is also an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on issues and legislation, and for Congressman Baird can hear ideas on how government can serve constituents better.
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Jan 25 2007
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OHSU Student Publicizes Ignorance |
The December and January issue of "Oregonizm," a magazine with lots of glossy advertisements but very little content, features a letter entitled, "OHSU Student Lashes Out," attributed to "Mars Hall" (page 26). The letter, if authentic, shows a disturbing degree of ignorance on the part of this OHSU student. Equally disturbing is the student's hatefulness. Would you want an ignorant hate-monger as your health practitioner?
Right off the bat, Mars Hall (alleged OHSU student) asserts that the protestors are not informed about the use of animals in lab testing and refers to them as "idiots." I wonder if Mars Hall also considers Dr. Jane Goodall, the world's most renowned primatologist, an "idiot" for being critical of OHSU's animal abuse? See her webpage at: http://www.janegoodall.org
Would Mars Hall also consider C. Ray Greek, MD, and Niall Shanks, PhD; president and vice-president of Americans For Medical Advancement, "idiots?" For their critique of non-human animal-modeled research see their website at: http://www.curedisease.com
Right off the bat, Mars Hall (alleged OHSU student) asserts that the protestors are not informed about the use of animals in lab testing and refers to them as "idiots." I wonder if Mars Hall also considers Dr. Jane Goodall, the world's most renowned primatologist, an "idiot" for being critical of OHSU's animal abuse? See her webpage at: http://www.janegoodall.org
Would Mars Hall also consider C. Ray Greek, MD, and Niall Shanks, PhD; president and vice-president of Americans For Medical Advancement, "idiots?" For their critique of non-human animal-modeled research see their website at: http://www.curedisease.com
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Jan 25 2007
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The Peoples’ Counter State of the Union Message |
While the Liar-in-Chief, George W. Bush, was giving his so-called, "State of the Union," message inside the U.S. Capitol, on Tuesday evening, Jan. 23, 2007, demonstrators were outside robustly exercising their First Amendment Rights, on the west side of the building, near its reflecting pool. Close by is a monument to one of my heroes--Gen. Ulysses S. Grant. The protesters listened to voices which were truly representative of the electoral results of Nov. 7, 2006, on the real condition of this country. The speakers demanded the Iraqi War be immediately stopped and that impeachment proceedings be launched against both Bush and V.P. Dick Cheney for lying the country into that conflict, spying on our citizens, condoning torture, and for other violations of the U.S. Constitution. read more >> | related: [ Bush Speech Terror Claim Debunked A Year Ago | State of the Union Translation | Cheney, Rice Sponsor Diarrhea Medicine for Big Pharma at State of Union Address | Minnesota Senate Candidate State Of The Nation Statement ]
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Jan 25 2007
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Local 201 members meet to oppose cuts in GE health care benefits |
Lynn, MA – With less than four months before the start of national GE contract negotiations, a top union negotiator told almost 300 GE's River Works union members and retirees that there is no good economic reason for GE to shift its medical costs to employees. Steve Tormey, from the United Electrical Workers Union, spoke with IUE-CWA Local 201 members about GE's real health care costs and why it is important to oppose any cuts in health care benefits.
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Jan 25 2007
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Former Black Panthers Arrested And Indicted In 1971 Homicide |
On January 23rd, New York Authorities in San Francisco announced the arrests and indictments of former Black Panthers in the 1971 killing of police officer Sgt. John V. Young-- despite the use of torture to obtain confessions. Constitutional Rights (CCR) Legal Director Bill Goodman said, "The case against these men was built on torture and serves to remind us that the U.S. government, which recently has engaged in such horrific forms of torture and abuse at places like Bagram, Abu Ghraib and Guantánamo, has a history of torture and abuse in this country as well, particularly against African Americans."
The film "Legacy of Torture: The Ongoing War Against the Black Panthers" will be screened at the Roxie Cinema in San Francisco on Sunday, January 28th at 12pm.
The film "Legacy of Torture: The Ongoing War Against the Black Panthers" will be screened at the Roxie Cinema in San Francisco on Sunday, January 28th at 12pm.
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Jan 25 2007
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Jim Graham proposes law to segregate nightclubs by age |
In response to a recent accidental shooting at a club at 1919 9th st near U st, Jim Graham has introduced a nasty little bill to bar everyone under 21 from all clubs with liquor licenses, and prohibit clubs that admit youth from serving liquor to anyone ELSE.
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Jan 25 2007
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Sunshine in Tennessee |
If you live in TN, there is a chance you have seen me since I travel a great deal and live here. You may have met me in the grocery, walking in the mall, dining in a local restaurant, checking in to the same hotel in which you stay, walking in the park, trying to access my laptop in the library, arguing for or against a proposed bill in a legislative committee, or conducting business at the bank. You would recognize me because when I travel, I always travel with Sunshine and she is unforgettable. She weighs about 60 pounds, is two years old and as sweet as can be. A musician friend of mine once told me she has hair most women would kill for- curly with red highlights, blond and white hair. She IS the Sunshine in my life.
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Jan 26 2007
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Keep the Dream Burning: Candlelight Vigil for Vanderbilt Workers |
Nashville, TN — On Friday, January 26th, at 4:15 p.m. on the Library Lawn of Vanderbilt University (see attached map), workers, students, community and faith supporters will gather together in a candlelight vigil to ask for a living wage for Vanderbilt workers. The group will then proceed to the steps of the Kirkland Administration where prominent community activists and faith leaders will speak to the assembled group. The event is sponsored by the Vanderbilt Student group, LIVE-Living Income for Vanderbilt Employees, and the Vanderbilt Community Alliance. Says Reverend David Shivers, a member of the Vanderbilt Community Alliance, “we are gathering today to ask Vanderbilt University to show its workers some dignity and respect by paying a living wage.” Even after a decade of service to the Vanderbilt University, many workers still make less than $10/hour.
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Jan 26 2007
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BRING THEM HOME: Jan 27 Rally |
RALLY TO END THE OCCUPATION AND BRING THE TROOPS HOME!
SUPPORT THE MARCH ON WASHINGTON
JANUARY 27, 2007
12 NOON
CORNER OF BARNETT AND RIVERSIDE, MEDFORD (Burger King)
SUPPORT THE MARCH ON WASHINGTON
JANUARY 27, 2007
12 NOON
CORNER OF BARNETT AND RIVERSIDE, MEDFORD (Burger King)
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Jan 26 2007
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A Critical Mass of Anti-War Proportions |
So NYC critical mass isnt what it used to be. . .
While im not ever going to give up on it, i think its important for nyc critical mass riders to experience a critical mass in a less hostile city, at least once a year. it keeps you sane.
While im not ever going to give up on it, i think its important for nyc critical mass riders to experience a critical mass in a less hostile city, at least once a year. it keeps you sane.
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Jan 26 2007
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A(nother) Weekend with the Minutemen |
I wonder how many people know that there are a lot of organizers who spend almost every morning with the Minutemen and almost every weekend with them as well. Well, not a lot every morning at 7am, but on the weekends, we're all pretty busy.
This weekend with the Minutemen started on Saturday morning at 7am. First, the usuals went to the Home Depot on Fairmount in mission gorge. The Minutemen go there daily and harass day laborer and anti-racist organizers go there every morning since the Minutemen have been responsible for pepper spraying, assaulting and threatening people with physical and sexual violence on numerous occasions.
My Saturday began when we went to Gabriel Pollach's barbershop at noon. Gabriel is the Minuteman who pepper sprayed about 10 non-violent artists and activists in National City, with absolutely no response from the police. So, a bunch of us decided to visit him at his place of employment. We figure that since the Minutemen spend everyday stopping day laborers from geting work and feeding their families, we should do the same...
Related: 1 | 2 | 3
This weekend with the Minutemen started on Saturday morning at 7am. First, the usuals went to the Home Depot on Fairmount in mission gorge. The Minutemen go there daily and harass day laborer and anti-racist organizers go there every morning since the Minutemen have been responsible for pepper spraying, assaulting and threatening people with physical and sexual violence on numerous occasions.
My Saturday began when we went to Gabriel Pollach's barbershop at noon. Gabriel is the Minuteman who pepper sprayed about 10 non-violent artists and activists in National City, with absolutely no response from the police. So, a bunch of us decided to visit him at his place of employment. We figure that since the Minutemen spend everyday stopping day laborers from geting work and feeding their families, we should do the same...
Related: 1 | 2 | 3
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Jan 26 2007
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Action Alert: AT&T Proposal To Fayetteville |
As was mentioned by long-time journalist Bill Moyers at the recent National Media Reform Conference in Memphis, the media giants will stop at nothing in order to consolidate, not only their profits but their power to control the content of what the average person is exposed to. In recent days, AT&T has made a proposal to the City of Fayetteville which could, in the long run, adversely affect Community Access Television and internet service in the local area. What follows serves to further explain the potential threat which now looms over independent media in Fayetteville.
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Jan 26 2007
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The Struggle for the Siskyou Mountains Salamander |
The California Fish and Game Commission is poised to take public testimony with regard to the threatened-species status of the Siskyou Mountains salamander under the California Endangered Species Act. Read More
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Jan 26 2007
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Support and Defend the Constitution with Veterans for Peace |
On Thursday, January 25, Veterans For Peace began Operation Support and Defend the Constitution:
To demand congress follow the will of the people, de-fund the war, and use the money to Support Our Troops, Bring Them Home Now!
To restate our oath of service as veterans to support and defend the Constitution.
To remind Congress that they took a similar oath, thus they have a responsibility to hold in check the powers of the Executive. Tell Congress they are a branch of our government, not an arm of the President.
To work to force the President to stop illegal acts such as unwarranted surveillance and torture, and to repeal laws that are in violation of the Constitution, such as the Military Commissions Act.
To invite veterans across the nation to unite with us in our effort to defend and support the Constitution by advocating for the impeachment of President George Bush and Vice President Richard Cheney.
Stand with us from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., January 26-28, at Terry Schrunck Plaza, SW 3rd Ave., Portland (across from the Fedral building).
To demand congress follow the will of the people, de-fund the war, and use the money to Support Our Troops, Bring Them Home Now!
To restate our oath of service as veterans to support and defend the Constitution.
To remind Congress that they took a similar oath, thus they have a responsibility to hold in check the powers of the Executive. Tell Congress they are a branch of our government, not an arm of the President.
To work to force the President to stop illegal acts such as unwarranted surveillance and torture, and to repeal laws that are in violation of the Constitution, such as the Military Commissions Act.
To invite veterans across the nation to unite with us in our effort to defend and support the Constitution by advocating for the impeachment of President George Bush and Vice President Richard Cheney.
Stand with us from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., January 26-28, at Terry Schrunck Plaza, SW 3rd Ave., Portland (across from the Fedral building).
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Jan 26 2007
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Protesting Bush Video |
Well it was fun and inspiring for me in putting together this video collection of miscellaneous pictures/photos many from Portland Oregon Protests. I want to thank those whose pictures I am using in this montage music clip I made, titled "Protesting Bush." When putting this together I felt the energy come from these photos, of all the people who were out in these streets making a stand. As I worked with these images and music, I could really feel for the dynamics of what is involved of the anti war/bush protesting movement. With the multitude of diversity, tactics, creativity, spirit, costumes, un-ending ENERGY and down right old fashion taking it to the streets... ... you protester "rock"!
People out in the streets pushing for change, to make this world better, and a safer place with less death & torture. People who are, united in peace, and who are standing up to... .. "be counted." People who go on the record before "all society" that we want change from this Insane Bush direction.
People out in the streets pushing for change, to make this world better, and a safer place with less death & torture. People who are, united in peace, and who are standing up to... .. "be counted." People who go on the record before "all society" that we want change from this Insane Bush direction.
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Jan 26 2007
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Tree sit in progress on campus |
On the UC Berkeley campus, there is a grove of old oak trees which is now in jeopardy. The UCB regents are planning to cut the trees to expand the university's sport stadium. They will have a difficult time, though, as a tree sit is in progress. Within the last few days, three women "of a certain age" have joined in the protest. Former mayor Shirley Dean is 71 years old. She is joined by 86 year old Betty Olds and 90 year old Sylvia McLaughlin. The women have a long history of working in the city government and on environmental issues. They are not about to quit now.
There is a law against cutting mature Coast Live Oaks in California, but that law was waived so that the $125 million addition to the sports complex could be built. Tree sitter activist "Redwood Mary" said that she would enforce the law against cutting the trees with her body if necessary. A temporary restraining order against cutting was issued on January 12th, but the battle is not over. For more information, you may go to http://www.saveoaks.com or email 
volunteer@saveoaks.com.
There is a law against cutting mature Coast Live Oaks in California, but that law was waived so that the $125 million addition to the sports complex could be built. Tree sitter activist "Redwood Mary" said that she would enforce the law against cutting the trees with her body if necessary. A temporary restraining order against cutting was issued on January 12th, but the battle is not over. For more information, you may go to
http://www.saveoaks.com or email volunteer@saveoaks.com.
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Jan 26 2007
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Protest against the Racist Philly Police |
Dozens of angry Philadelphians chanted and gave speeches outside the 19th District Police Station. They carried signs mourning the fatal police-shooting victims from last year, 20 in total, and urged for radical action: “These cops in here are murderers, they’re killers.”
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Jan 26 2007
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Activists denounce Hollywood collusion with diamond industry, protest 2/5 |
At the recent Golden Globes ceremony, many of Hollywood's taste-makers participated in a new marketing campaign entitled “Raise Your Right Hand For Africa.” This campaign was launched by the Diamond Information Center (DIC), a marketing arm of the De Beers diamond cartel. They’re advertising that women should buy a diamond ring to be worn on the right hand as a show of support for economic development for African people.
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Jan 26 2007
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Freedom for Anarchist Prisoners in Oaxaca! Freedom for Oscar and Sacramento! |
Anarchists and anti-authoritarians have played a vital role in the struggle against the government of Ulisses Ruiz Ortiz in Oaxaca. Among the many prisoners being held in jails around Mexico are anarchist activists Oscar Santa Maria Caro and Sacramento Delfino Cano Hernandez who were arrested on November 30th in Oaxaca.
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Jan 26 2007
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CODEPINK/Instead of War Sends Convoy to DC |
As part of a national movement to announce public disapproval of the Iraq War, CODEPINK St. Louis and Instead of War have sent a convoy to DC to make our voices heard. Check back here for more stories/pix/videos! MORE INFO: Portrait for Peace 1/27
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Jan 26 2007
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Nashville's Urban Development Policy Revealed: Out With the Old? |
Nashville's Metro Council is considering a proposal to build a 19-story hotel/condominium on lower Broadway, which would change the appearance of the area considerably. What is the wider context of this move? One of the things I remember most clearly about my first visit to Nashville, thirty-five years ago, was seeing an outhouse in the back yard of a home about a mile south of downtown. I don't know if it was still used—in fact, I doubt that it was; but that's a keynote for the Nashville that used to be. I remember when Old Hickory Boulevard's southern loop was a rolling two-lane road through fields and woods, and friends of mine lived in the funky, low-rent neighborhood that used to stand where Vanderbilt's athletic fields now lie. My wife went horseback riding on the old railroad bed that is now I-440. It was a great place for a kid to have adventures.
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Jan 26 2007
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SOTU prompts downtown protest |
Dozens of Oklahomans send a message to Bush: No "surge" End the war, troops home About 40 peace activists held a protest in downtown Oklahoma City on Wednesday, January 24. Participants included members of The Peace House, the Department of Peace Campaign, Oklahoma Committee for Conscientious Objectors, Democrats for America, Code Pink and others. Large signs asked drivers passing by to "Honk for Peace" and the response was very encouraging. A news crew from local Channel 25, the Fox affiliate, was among the media that covered the event. The event was in response to President Bush's State of the Union address the evening before.
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Jan 26 2007
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Images from the Picket Line: Wobbly Workers Fight Back 1/20/07 |
Wobblies, fellow workers, community and anti-capitalist activists picket the boss who fired 22.
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Jan 27 2007
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Calendar of Events - January 26-28, 2007 |
(Add your info in comments; calendar will be updated regularly.)
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Jan 27 2007
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'Tazers and Lies' Counter-Recruitment Video |
Tazers and Lies: "The Truth about Military Recruitment lies somewhere between Tazers and Lies" has now been seen over 2000 times on YouTube. Video
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Jan 27 2007
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Opponents of youth ban turn out in force at Graham's roundtable |
On Jan 25, Jim Graham held a "community roundtable" to discuss his proposed ban on young people at nightclubs. Only thing is, opponents of the ban had to listen to over three hours of speeches from law enforcement and other supporters of the ban before being allowed to speak.
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Jan 27 2007
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Lone Vet Report |
Troy and I arrived about 1300, (1 PM) and met with a staff member who listened to us and accepted our letter.
Apparently he did not read the letter because when 1700 (5PM) came around he told us we had to leave without answering our request in writing --- we refused to leave. There was some confusion as what to do next. The staff wanted to go home and we wanted to stay to get an answer to our letter. Security was called and asked us to leave, we said no because we did not get an answer to our question. Security called the PD and we all waited. When the police arrived, they seemed upset that we had taken them away from arresting the bad guys --- to deal with this sit in. We told the police that we would be willing to accept a written statement from a representative of Sen. Smith saying that he would not vote for any future funding of the war or occupation of Iraq. Stand off.
Apparently he did not read the letter because when 1700 (5PM) came around he told us we had to leave without answering our request in writing --- we refused to leave. There was some confusion as what to do next. The staff wanted to go home and we wanted to stay to get an answer to our letter. Security was called and asked us to leave, we said no because we did not get an answer to our question. Security called the PD and we all waited. When the police arrived, they seemed upset that we had taken them away from arresting the bad guys --- to deal with this sit in. We told the police that we would be willing to accept a written statement from a representative of Sen. Smith saying that he would not vote for any future funding of the war or occupation of Iraq. Stand off.
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Jan 27 2007
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Surge Protection Brigade |
For the second Friday in a row, the Military Career Recruiting Center at NE 13th & Broadway locks down rather than face "angry Grannies".
The Surge Protection Brigade, a coalition of long time peace activists, many of them mothers and grandmothers, went to the recruiting center today and were greeted with locked doors, despite the sign saying, "OPEN. WALK IN." People were prepared to be arrested to stop recruiting, but are happy that recruiting was blocked without an arrest.
The Surge Protection Brigade, a coalition of long time peace activists, many of them mothers and grandmothers, went to the recruiting center today and were greeted with locked doors, despite the sign saying, "OPEN. WALK IN." People were prepared to be arrested to stop recruiting, but are happy that recruiting was blocked without an arrest.
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Jan 27 2007
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Honoring the Fallen |
Close to 100 lined the streets in Ashland, Friday honoring the fallen soldiers. Since March 20, 2003, hundreds of thousands of Iraqis, as well as more than 3,000 American soldiers, and others have lost their lives.
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Jan 28 2007
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January 27th Protests in SF and Washington DC to Say, Troops Home Now |
On Saturday, January 27th anti-war portests were held around the US to tell the new Congress to "represent the truly nationwide peace majority." United for Peace and Justice organized the largest march in Washington DC, where tens of thousands of anti-war protesters circled the US capital. Photos: 1 | 2 ||| Audio
In San Francisco, there was a rally and march that started at Powell And Market and ended at Pier 31/33 to support IBU-ILWU/MMP workers, who are under attack by Terry MacCrae and Hornblower Tours. Report ||| Photos: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 ||| Video
In Sacramento, more than 100 people gathered at the intersection of Arden Way and Heritage Lane to protest the continued war and occupation. Photos
Local protests were also held in Fresno, San Jose, and other locations.
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Jan 28 2007
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Jan 27th Peace Rally in Oklahoma City |
In support of national March on Washington DC: Some 150 activists for peace braved freezing rain to participate in a "Rally for Peace" held on Saturday at the State Capitol. Colorful signs were held high as listeners cheered the words of religious and political opinion leaders, parents of Iraq veterans, one Iraq veteran, and a self-described “conservative Republican.”
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Jan 28 2007
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Local Solidarity Peace demonstrations |
In solidarity with the peace marchers in D.C., we stood with our Peace flags on the foot bridge over Hwy 99 in Oregon City. We have brought our flags there several times, but it felt like a good place to start our day. There were many positive responses from drivers. Boy was it cold though! The wind was whipping up through that tunnel and nearly ripped the flags from our hands. A young couple stopped by as they walked over to the viewpoint for the Willamette Falls. The young woman, who works for the city of Oregon City, gave me her warm mittens and thanked us for what we were doing. I was very grateful, because without those gloves, I would have had to head for warmth a lot sooner.
From Oregon City, we went to the Oak Grove Vigil on McLoughlin and were very pleased to see that there were around 35 people standing along both sides of the roads with signs and flags. As most of you know, these folks come out every Saturday from noon to 1 o'clock. We were pleased by the many positive responses we received from those driving past. One elderly man in a rather large truck gave us the thumbs down, but now I know at least one of the 28%ers. Looked a lot like Karl Rove.
From Oregon City, we went to the Oak Grove Vigil on McLoughlin and were very pleased to see that there were around 35 people standing along both sides of the roads with signs and flags. As most of you know, these folks come out every Saturday from noon to 1 o'clock. We were pleased by the many positive responses we received from those driving past. One elderly man in a rather large truck gave us the thumbs down, but now I know at least one of the 28%ers. Looked a lot like Karl Rove.
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Jan 28 2007
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Huge crowd lined 4th avenue in Olympia today to call for an end war |
It was a rare sunny, blue-sky January day in Olympia, suggesting that even Mother Nature wants an end to this illegal war and occupation in Iraq.
Well over 1,000 people turned out for this rally organized by the Veteran's for Peace, Rachel Corrie Chapter. People of all ages carried a wide range of signs and flags in solidarity with the DC anti-war protest.
The signs focused on the war and impeachment. One group had a banner that had tick marks for the 3,000 soldiers who were killed in Iraq. Another banner called on Bush to remember that Jesus stood for peace. A huge Bring Them Home sign captured the overall message of this gathering.
Well over 1,000 people turned out for this rally organized by the Veteran's for Peace, Rachel Corrie Chapter. People of all ages carried a wide range of signs and flags in solidarity with the DC anti-war protest.
The signs focused on the war and impeachment. One group had a banner that had tick marks for the 3,000 soldiers who were killed in Iraq. Another banner called on Bush to remember that Jesus stood for peace. A huge Bring Them Home sign captured the overall message of this gathering.
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Jan 28 2007
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Vancouver, WA weekend solidarity actions for DC Peacemakers |
About 48 Vancouverites turned out today for the solidarity actions in DC. We held numerous hand-made signs, banners and flags under bright sunshine and cold, brisk winds. There tons of hornhonks. One reported several flip-offs to which he holds up TWO fingers! One guy came, arguing briefly, but didn't stick around.
I saw many familiar, beautiful friends, and lots of new ones. Mike T. took digital pictures and agreed to post them here.
Three of us were away. Marion Ward and Cindi Fisher are in DC for the march and lobbying, and Angie Lindquist is on a safari, after finishing up at the World Social Forum in Nairobe, Kenya.
Bring the troops home NOW. No more $ for the troop surge!
I saw many familiar, beautiful friends, and lots of new ones. Mike T. took digital pictures and agreed to post them here.
Three of us were away. Marion Ward and Cindi Fisher are in DC for the march and lobbying, and Angie Lindquist is on a safari, after finishing up at the World Social Forum in Nairobe, Kenya.
Bring the troops home NOW. No more $ for the troop surge!
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Jan 28 2007
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Photogs from the J27 march in Seattle |
At least 1000 people took to the streets in Seattle WA. to oppose the Occupation of Iraq, first gathering at the Center for Social Justice on Union Avenue and then marching to the Langston Hughes Center, where Lt. Ehren Watada was to be the Keynote speaker.
Before the march a few speakers fired up the crowd. Especially memorable was a speech given by Eleanor Roosevelt, who rose from her place of rest to blast the Bush Administration. She was followed by brief statements by Veterans of the war in Iraq.
Along the way the crowd stopped off at the local military recruiters center, which was on the path of the march. They had been informed earlier in the morning that, due to an alleged break-in at the office the night before, they would not be allowed to protest at that location.
Before the march a few speakers fired up the crowd. Especially memorable was a speech given by Eleanor Roosevelt, who rose from her place of rest to blast the Bush Administration. She was followed by brief statements by Veterans of the war in Iraq.
Along the way the crowd stopped off at the local military recruiters center, which was on the path of the march. They had been informed earlier in the morning that, due to an alleged break-in at the office the night before, they would not be allowed to protest at that location.
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Jan 28 2007
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Thousands Demonstrate at Downtown Anti-war Protest |
LOS ANGELES, January 27, 2007 – Estimates ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 people demonstrated against the continuing US war on the people of Iraq today. A protest was held today outside the Los Angeles offices of the Democratic Party. Protesters demanded that the newly elected Democratic controlled congress stop funding for the war in Iraq and begin the process of bringing all the troops home now. Protesters then marched through downtown to the Federal Building for a second rally featuring speakers Cindy Sheehan, Ron Kovic, Nativo Lopez and others. The event was peaceful, no arrests or incidents of police violence have been reported. From the Newswire: L.A.'s Jan. 27th antiwar march by Geronimo | | 3000 March Downtown to Stop the War! & More From L.A. J27 by Hugh Stegman | | AUDIO: Ron Kovics and Cindy Sheehan - audio by schock | | VIDEO: VIDEO: Military Families Speak Out at Anti-war Rally by A
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Jan 28 2007
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Letter received by Bill Quigley |
The battle heats up as New Orleans Attorney and Housing Rights Advocate Bill Quigley received a threatening letter from lawyers representing HANO about the audio recording published on Indymedia. With the threat they will "seek redress from the Louisiana Disciplinary Board and/or seek intervention by the Court," Quigley was told that his statements on Indymedia and other websites will "prejudice HANO's position in this litigation."
Quigley responded by saying "It sounds like they're trying to infringe on our First Amendment rights." Read the entire letter
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Jan 28 2007
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30-strong Oklahoma contingent at DC antiwar actions |
Report from Tulsa activist at the 1/27 DC rally & march:
The following is a report from Timbre Wolf, of Tulsa OK. He and about 30 others from Oklahoma attended the March on Washington, DC rally that took place Saturday, Jan. 27th. After 23 hours - straight - Joe Picorale (WorldCantWait, TulsaTruth, 9/11 Truth) and I made it into Washington, D.C. We arrived the Mall around 10:30. There was a small group gathered around the stage at the "front." We perceived plenty of time to gather, visit, and mingle. But as we began walking toward the stage I felt and saw something extraordinary happen. On Jefferson and Constitution streets people were coming in a consistent wave. Pouring in from side streets people were coming. The power of this ocean was palpable. The news says that there were "tens of thousands" but a Dr. from OKC projected that the number was closer to 400,000. Based on the pics of the National Mall when there were a million people there I would say that we had between a tenth and a quarter of that. read more...
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Jan 28 2007
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New NYPD Parade Rules Released: Any 50 Vehicles Or Pedestrians |
It appears the NYPD's new parade permit rules will impact 50 or more bikes or pedestrians, whether there is any violation of a law or not, a group of 50 or more will be required to obtain a permit from the NYPD or participants will be subject to arrest.
Again, to be clear, that is 50 of anyone will be required to obtain a permit, whether in the road or on the sidewalk. || Read More || NYCLU: NYPD Modifies Proposed Parade Permit Rules || Police Permits of Free Speech || Times Up: NYC Spends 1.3 Million Policing Critical Mass || Singapore on the Hudson
Again, to be clear, that is 50 of anyone will be required to obtain a permit, whether in the road or on the sidewalk. || Read More || NYCLU: NYPD Modifies Proposed Parade Permit Rules || Police Permits of Free Speech || Times Up: NYC Spends 1.3 Million Policing Critical Mass || Singapore on the Hudson
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Jan 28 2007
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NYC’s immigrant food warehouse workers unionize with IWW |
Not Without a Fight: NYC’s food warehouse workers unionize
by Diane Krauthamer
by Diane Krauthamer
For every restaurant and every shop in New York there is a backbone — the workers who make sure ingredients reach those restaurants and their staff. No one is supposed to think about them. Certainly not the diners. But they exist, because they have to: behind the closed doors of dank and often filthy wholesale and distribution warehouses in Brooklyn and Queens’ industrial areas, suffering under sweatshop-like conditions, pulling shifts that begin before dawn and end well after dusk. Owners regularly take advantage of these immigrant workers' lack of familiarity with United States labor laws by pushing the envelope of exploitation, refusing overtime and paying far less than minimum wage.
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Jan 28 2007
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Recruiters Take War to College Campuses |
Colleges play an increasingly important role in the military recruitment strategy. With the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the U.S.’s need for soldiers is greater than ever. To meet that demand is increasingly difficult in New York City, especially among the student population, most of whom think that the Army is not for them.
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Jan 28 2007
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NYC Air Awarded Dirty Distinction |
According to the most recent Environmental Protection Agency data, New York City has the dirtiest air in America. In the whole country, no city population has a greater risk of getting cancer from breathing air than residents of our five boroughs.
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Jan 28 2007
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Community Residents Say No To Prison Expansion |
Several hundred activists, former inmates and San Diego neighborhood residents gave a collective, thunderous no to Governor Schwarzenegger's recent proposed prison expansion scheme. Meeting at the Malcom X Library on Jan. 21st, participants blasted the deceit around a so-called "re-entry" facility proposed for the San Diego region; while others suggested it was time to look at changing the entire California justice system.
Community activists talked about the advantages of the prison industrial complex for corporations, district attorneys and prison guards and its failures for inmates. A huge petition was unfolded, signed by over 1,000 of the 10,000 women prisoners in California, opposing the Governor's prison expansion efforts. Most of the signers were from the twin prison complexes that sits amid almond groves near Chowchilla - the largest concentration of women prisoners in the world.
Forum participants ended the gathering with suggestions for follow-up actions, including attending a March 28th demo against the Governor's call for prison construction at the state capitol, putting pressure on local legislators to oppose all prison expansion schemes, and educating the general community about the need for real prison reform built on community-based treatment and justice programs. More info: Curb Prison Spending
Community activists talked about the advantages of the prison industrial complex for corporations, district attorneys and prison guards and its failures for inmates. A huge petition was unfolded, signed by over 1,000 of the 10,000 women prisoners in California, opposing the Governor's prison expansion efforts. Most of the signers were from the twin prison complexes that sits amid almond groves near Chowchilla - the largest concentration of women prisoners in the world.
Forum participants ended the gathering with suggestions for follow-up actions, including attending a March 28th demo against the Governor's call for prison construction at the state capitol, putting pressure on local legislators to oppose all prison expansion schemes, and educating the general community about the need for real prison reform built on community-based treatment and justice programs. More info: Curb Prison Spending
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Jan 28 2007
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Working Class Hero Lorenzo Ervin Unjustly Fired |
On Monday, December 4, 2006, Lorenzo Kom'boa Ervin was unjustly fired from his position as coordinator of the Nashville Peace and Justice Center (NPJC).
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Jan 28 2007
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“Our Airwaves" - Against the FCC’s Deregulation and Corporate Media Decay |
Last Thursday over 150 community activists, media professionals and concerned citizens met on the Temple University campus for a public hearing with FCC Commissioners Michael Copps and Jonathan Adelstein. The subject was the state of the mainstream media in Philadelphia and its effects on the community and was sponsored by Media Tank along with many others.
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Jan 28 2007
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Protests Planned for Fourth Anniversary of US-Led War in Iraq |
On March 17, 2007, the 4th anniversary of the start of the invasion of Iraq, tens of thousands of people from around the country gather in Washington DC to demand: U.S. Out of Iraq Now! They will gather at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (Constitution Gardens) at 12 noon, and march to the Pentagon. On March 18th, there will be a march in San Francisco, starting at 12pm at Justin Herman Plaza, with a march to Civic Center. 2007 is the 40th anniversary of the historic 1967 anti-war march to the Pentagon during the Vietnam War.
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Jan 28 2007
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January 27 March on Washington Reports |
Reports on January 27, 2007 March on Washington, against the Iraq war, and related activity: J27: Photos and video footage from the rush to the Capitol | Protestors lay seige to US Capitol, smash window at military recruiter | Hundreds of Thousands Put Impeachment Back On the Table, Capitol Hill Taken 3x | Interviews During UFPJ March on the Mall | Rep. John Conyers: “Congress Can Fire Bush!” | Peace Rally Wrap up | Radical Youth Contingent and Students for a Democratic Society March Overview
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Jan 29 2007
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Rep. John Conyers: “Congress Can Fire Bush!” |
A massive anti-Iraqi War rally was held, in D.C., on Sat., Jan. 27, 2007. The Chairman of the House’s Judiciary Committee, Rep. John Conyers (D-MI), sent an unmistakable warning to President George W. Bush. Conyers said he wants the “war stopped.” He reminded Bush, that the U.S. Congress “can fire him.” Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) said Bush “tricked the American people” into the war. She said, to loud applause: “Bush isn’t the decider. He’s the liar!”
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Jan 29 2007
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Indymedia reports from Jan. 27th National Washington D.C. Peace March |
It looked like hundreds of thousands showed up on The Mall on January 27, or enough to completely fill this pretty huge several block circle around the Capitol. Instead of listening to speeches on the mall, a group of 300 activists decided to take the protest to the Capitol steps, attempting to enter the building. At the start of the march I joked that SDS, the organizers, would have to "make their bones or leave their bones." Well, they've made their mark in a big way today! The march from Dupont Circle started out with 150 people or so, but grew as reinforcing contingents joined in at seveal points. In front were "tower" shields like those used by Roman soldiers or riot cops today.
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Jan 29 2007
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Grieving Gold Star Dad Invades Senator Specter's Sanctum Sanctorum, in Philly |
Now that Carlos has recovered from the burns of his self-immolation in protest after his son's death in Iraq, he has dedicated his life to demonstrating the *Human Cost of War,* and the terrible tragedy of parents' burying their children.
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Jan 29 2007
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WSF IndyMedia Center/Prometheus Station Robbed by Gunmen |
On Monday, January 22nd at about 7:15pm local time, three armed robbers entered the skybox of the Moi Stadium being used by the World Social Forum IndyMedia Center (IMC) and an Prometheus Radio Project station Radio Huru and robbed three women working there. In spite of this setback, the station was able to go on-air in Nairobi, Kenya.
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Jan 29 2007
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"Make Out for Environmental Justice" at SF's Queer Center |
In reaction to PG&E's massive greenwashing campaign, a group of protesters crashed the PG&E press conference at the LGBT center on January 27th, where the company unveiled its newly installed solar panels. The protesters wanted to make it clear that installing solar panels on one building did not make this billion dollar corporation 'green'. The counter-action was called "Make Out for Environmental Justice." Two queer women on stilts leaned in for a smooch in front of the LGBT Center entrance, while holding a sign that read, "Love Solar. Love LGBT. Question PG&E," and a parasol reading '0% Solar'. Photos | Report
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Jan 29 2007
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Benefit for The Coup in Santa Cruz |
On January 21st, Moe's Alley in Santa Cruz hosted a benefit show for the Oakland-based hip hop group The Coup. It was an all star line up of musicians and MC's with a common cause of helping The Coup after their tragic bus accident. Listen to the live recording. 
Audio
Audio
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Jan 29 2007
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VIDEO: Philadelphians March on DC |
Hundreds of Philadelphians joined the tens of thousands protesting the Iraq war in Washington DC on Saturday. Philly IMC followed along producing a short video of the event.
See also: Photos by Rich Gardner and Monique Frugier | Rep. John Conyers: “Congress Can Fire Bush!” | Vets Re-Affirm OATH to Defend & Protect the Constitution | George W. Bush is Not Pro-Life | Boycott the March|
Jan 29 2007
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Anti-War Protests in Estacada, Bend and MidGorge |
Estacada Stand for Peace -- There were 25 to 30 people standing against the war in Estacada today from noon to one o'clock. Many of you already know that there is a very active group of citizens in Estacada who meet regularly and stand in front of the City Hall each Sunday, holding signs and flags declaring their concerns about the present political climate in Washington D.C. Their steadfastness is inspirational. Though there was not a lot of traffic out there today, what did pass our way honked and waved and encouraged the stand for Peace. There were a few people who pointedly displayed their disagreement, but they were in a distinct minority. [read more]
Bend, OR Peace March & Rally -- Grey, overcast skies and chilly temperatures couldn't keep a determined group of about 200 Central Oregonians from attending a Peace March & Rally in Solidarity with the United For Peace event in Washington, D.C. Saturday. Warm spirits overcame cold feet as we marched to the beat of our Stop-the-Damned-War Drum Corps. The march started out with organizers energizing the crowd with lively, albeit brief tunes and an announcement that our well-attended event was but one of over 275 such protest events occurring across America and in at least six international locations. Negril, Jamaica? We were a bit jealous of their weather... [read more]
MidGorge protests Iraq War -- Over 40 persons braved cold winds to carry banners and signs demanding peace on January 27 onto the Hood River 2nd Street freeway overpass, in solidarity with the antiwar march and rally in Washington DC; the nonviolent demonstration was sponsored by Columbria River Fellowship for Peace. Another 25 persons, in The Dalles, in a demonstration called by Wasco County Citizens for Human Dignity, protested the war with signs and banners on the town's main freeway overpass, but after a time were ordered off by police claiming the demonstration was distracting drivers and dangerous. [read more]
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Jan 29 2007
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Fun With Jean & Walt - TRAMANIA |
They will always be Boon and Doggle to me and to many other Portlanders. Who will remember names like "Jean" and "Walt" and what in the world makes these people particularly worthy of having a tram car named after them?
Jean Richardson was Oregon's first female engineering graduate - from Oregon State University in Corvallis. Walt Reynolds was the first black to graduate from the University of Oregon Medical School (now known as OHSU). At least Mr. Reynolds's claim is stronger but it seems pretty clear that these were politically-motivated and ultimately forgettable choices - Ms. Richardson because she was a woman engineer and Mr. Reynolds because he was a black graduate. What do these things have to do with the area? With transportation in Portland? With the tram itself?
Jean Richardson was Oregon's first female engineering graduate - from Oregon State University in Corvallis. Walt Reynolds was the first black to graduate from the University of Oregon Medical School (now known as OHSU). At least Mr. Reynolds's claim is stronger but it seems pretty clear that these were politically-motivated and ultimately forgettable choices - Ms. Richardson because she was a woman engineer and Mr. Reynolds because he was a black graduate. What do these things have to do with the area? With transportation in Portland? With the tram itself?
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Jan 29 2007
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City Accepting Public Comment on Peak Oil Report |
The City of Portland's Peak Oil Task Force has released a draft report and is accepting public comments until February 12, 2007. The draft report, titled "Descending the Oil Peak: Navigating the Transition from Oil and Natural Gas," is available at http://www.portlandonline.com/osd/index.cfm?c=42894.
"The Task Force findings illustrate the enormous economic and social vulnerabilities and opportunities that could result as fuel supplies cease to be abundant and inexpensive," said Task Force Chair Bill Scott. "The magnitude of this issue led the Task Force to explore far-reaching solutions. Our lead recommendation is that Portland cut its oil and natural gas use in half over the next 25 years."
http://www.portlandonline.com/osd/index.cfm?c=42894. "The Task Force findings illustrate the enormous economic and social vulnerabilities and opportunities that could result as fuel supplies cease to be abundant and inexpensive," said Task Force Chair Bill Scott. "The magnitude of this issue led the Task Force to explore far-reaching solutions. Our lead recommendation is that Portland cut its oil and natural gas use in half over the next 25 years."
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Jan 29 2007
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Antiwar and looking ahead: What's it going to take? |
Once again, hundreds of thousands have demonstrated their opposition to Bush's war and domestic repression. That's not stopping Bush's push into Iran, Somalia and increased troops to Iraq and Afghanistan. Just as activists need to become organizers, dissent must turn to resistance. (All opinions stated here are the authors alone.)
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Jan 29 2007
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With These Hands I Demand the Future that Poverty Wages Have Stolen from Me |
With these hands I demand the future that poverty wages have stolen from me. Farmworkers returning from picking tomatoes bought by companies, such as McDonald's, show hands stained with pesticides and heavy with hard work.The Coalition of Immokalee Workers is declaring that they are tired, in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, of “relying on the goodwill and understanding of those who profit from exploiting us,” and are escalating their campaign to convince McDonald’s to end human rights violations in its supply chain. As their first major action in this new phase of the campaign, they are organizing two days of action in McDonald’s corporate backyard, Chicago. The CIW will hold a march and protest outside McDonald’s corporate headquarters in Oak Brook, IL, on the 13th to be followed by a day of colorful street protests in downtown Chicago in the Latin American tradition of “Carnaval” on the 14th. Read more>> | Coalition of Immokalee Workers | Student Farmworker Alliance | Watch the Video
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Jan 29 2007
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Our National Shame |
Guantánamo is our national shame. Five years after Camp X-Ray opened to house prisoners from the US war in Afghanistan, about 500 prisoners remain there. Not one has been charged, tried, or convicted for any crime.
On January 11th, the 5th anniversary of the first prisoners arriving at Guantánamo, about 200 protesters turned out for a demonstration against the detention center and the troop increase in Iraq proposed by President Bush the day before. A dozen Rochester "prisoners" donned the prisoners’ black hoods.
According to Witness Against Torture—a campaign to shut down Guantánamo—only 8% of detainees were even considered to be Al Qaeda fighters by the US government. 95% of detainees were handed over to the United States by third parties in exchange for bounties offered.
The UN Commission on Human Rights has said treatment of prisoners at Guantanamo ‘seriously undermines the rule of law and a number of fundamental universally recognized human rights, which are the essence of democratic societies.’ Our country is losing its soul at Guantanamo. To regain one’s soul, one must repent. Read the full article here.
Photos from January 11th Protest in Rochester: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7
Additional Information: Indybay coverage: International Protests Against Torture and Detention || Amnesty International’s 12-Point Programme for the Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment by Agents of the State || Protesting Guantánamo by Frida Berrigan || Reprieve's Seeds of Hope campaign for Guantanamo gardeners || Truth, Torture, and the American Way
On January 11th, the 5th anniversary of the first prisoners arriving at Guantánamo, about 200 protesters turned out for a demonstration against the detention center and the troop increase in Iraq proposed by President Bush the day before. A dozen Rochester "prisoners" donned the prisoners’ black hoods.
According to Witness Against Torture—a campaign to shut down Guantánamo—only 8% of detainees were even considered to be Al Qaeda fighters by the US government. 95% of detainees were handed over to the United States by third parties in exchange for bounties offered.
The UN Commission on Human Rights has said treatment of prisoners at Guantanamo ‘seriously undermines the rule of law and a number of fundamental universally recognized human rights, which are the essence of democratic societies.’ Our country is losing its soul at Guantanamo. To regain one’s soul, one must repent. Read the full article here.
Photos from January 11th Protest in Rochester: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7
Additional Information: Indybay coverage: International Protests Against Torture and Detention || Amnesty International’s 12-Point Programme for the Prevention of Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment by Agents of the State || Protesting Guantánamo by Frida Berrigan || Reprieve's Seeds of Hope campaign for Guantanamo gardeners || Truth, Torture, and the American Way
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Jan 29 2007
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The Homeland War |
It was just another skirmish in the two-year war on migrants. Sixty minutemen, from San Diego Minutemen and Save Our State, tried to run day laborers out of San Juan Capistrano, but they were held at bay by thirty or so determined day laborers and their supporters.
A contractor pulled into the parking lot, and the minutemen rushed over to deter him. The contractor assured the minutemen that he paid all the requisite business and employee taxes. The call went out from the workers and their supporters: would a minuteman take the job? Eventually a white-bearded minuteman agreed and climbed into the truck, to the laughter of the laborers. The contractor and the minuteman drove off, but the minuteman reappeared about half an hour later, admitting that he had been fired.
Related: Minutemen Swarming San Diego Day Labor Sites | Resistance to Minutemen in Socal | "Border War" Protest Video | Operation "Where's the War!?" | Video of Operation W.T.F (Where's the Fence) | Racist Violence in National City Saturday | Residents Celebrate as National City Becomes Sanctuary | | Border Patrol and SDPD Arrest Day Laborers | The Minuteklan Rallies: Observer Arrested | A(nother) Weekend with the Minutemen
A contractor pulled into the parking lot, and the minutemen rushed over to deter him. The contractor assured the minutemen that he paid all the requisite business and employee taxes. The call went out from the workers and their supporters: would a minuteman take the job? Eventually a white-bearded minuteman agreed and climbed into the truck, to the laughter of the laborers. The contractor and the minuteman drove off, but the minuteman reappeared about half an hour later, admitting that he had been fired.
Related: Minutemen Swarming San Diego Day Labor Sites | Resistance to Minutemen in Socal | "Border War" Protest Video | Operation "Where's the War!?" | Video of Operation W.T.F (Where's the Fence) | Racist Violence in National City Saturday | Residents Celebrate as National City Becomes Sanctuary | | Border Patrol and SDPD Arrest Day Laborers | The Minuteklan Rallies: Observer Arrested | A(nother) Weekend with the Minutemen
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Jan 29 2007
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San Diego’s Anti-War Protest 1/27/07 |
An estimated 1500 protesters attended an anti-war demonstration at Horton Plaza in downtown San Diego on Saturday aimed at the ongoing occupation of Iraq, the Bush administration's recent announcement of a 'surge,' and expectations of an impending attack on Iran. Daniel Ellsberg, who leaked the Pentagon Papers, spoke at the rally and then the protesters marched through the Gaslamp along the usual route.
The San Diego demonstration paralleled numerous demonstrations across the country, including a United for Peace and Justice protest in Washington, DC, which drew between tens of thousands and 500,000
Via US-IMC:
From the DC-IMC Newswire: Hundreds of Thousands Put Impeachment Back On the Table | Break Way March Rushes Capitol Building | Protestors lay siege to US Capitol, smash window at military recruiter | Radical Youth Contingent and Students for a Democratic Society March Overview | Photos: 1 | 2 | Audio
Other Reports: Boston | Los Angeles | Oklahoma: 1, 2 | Olympia, WA | Oregon City | Portland, OR | Sacramento, CA | San Francisco | Seattle | Vancouver, WA
The San Diego demonstration paralleled numerous demonstrations across the country, including a United for Peace and Justice protest in Washington, DC, which drew between tens of thousands and 500,000
Via US-IMC:
From the DC-IMC Newswire: Hundreds of Thousands Put Impeachment Back On the Table | Break Way March Rushes Capitol Building | Protestors lay siege to US Capitol, smash window at military recruiter | Radical Youth Contingent and Students for a Democratic Society March Overview | Photos: 1 | 2 | Audio
Other Reports: Boston | Los Angeles | Oklahoma: 1, 2 | Olympia, WA | Oregon City | Portland, OR | Sacramento, CA | San Francisco | Seattle | Vancouver, WA
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Jan 30 2007
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Code Pink Takes Capitol Hill... for 30 minutes |
In their form of lobbying, 9 Code Pink protesters, out of some 70 women, were arrested after temporarily shutting down the House Rayburn building, and taking over the Senate Hart buildings. Ryme Katkhouda of the dcradiocoop.org talked to those who left the building as the police moved on those inside and started the arrests...
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Jan 30 2007
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Ready, Aim, Fire: The Politics of Arson |
Two Seton Hall students were sentenced last Friday to five years in prison for setting a fire that killed three of their fellow students. Three deaths, five years. The two young men could be out on parole in as little as 16 months.
Daniel McGowan is also going to serve prison time in an arson case. He participated in an two arson attacks at a tree farm and a lumber company. He didn’t kill anyone. Yet the shortest sentence he faces is longer than the 5 year maximum term that the two Seton Hall students will serve.
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Jan 30 2007
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Dean Zimmerman Statement |
Given the recent stories on the Green Scare, I thought this story was appropriate.
For those who don't know Dean Zimmerman was the Green Party Councilman from Minneapolis, who many of us believe, was gerrymandered along with the other Green party councilperson Natalie Johnsonn-Lee from their respective seats on the Minneapolis City Council. Both have had a long and respected history of fighting for the poor and oppressed. Many believe that they were both gerrymandered, not by the evil Republicans but by the "lesser evil Democrats. Dean was then set up by the FBI in an obvious sting operation.
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Jan 30 2007
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Tel Aviv and Jerusalem flyposted against the murder of 11 year old Abir Aramin by border police |
Over a thousand posters were posted all around Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, bringing up the little published story of the murder of 11 year old Abir Aramin from the Palestinian village Anata, near Jerusalem.
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Jan 30 2007
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Siskiyou Environmental Film Festival! |
The Siskiyou Environmental Film Festival is back for another great round of events!
Siskiyou Environmental Film Festival
Friday-Sunday, February 2-4
Havurah Sanctuary
185 North Mountain Street (down the street from SOU), Ashland, OR
Siskiyou Environmental Film Festival
Friday-Sunday, February 2-4
Havurah Sanctuary
185 North Mountain Street (down the street from SOU), Ashland, OR
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Jan 30 2007
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Farm labor Camp Crew Leader sentenced to 30 years in Florida Servitude Case |
"Since the early 1990s, Ronald Evans built a farm labor business by recruiting from homeless shelters and keeping workers in debt with overpriced crack cocaine and beer he sold on credit. The East Palatka man had been investigated before, was fined by the Department of Labor and paid $4,000 to settle a lawsuit brought by former workers, but he'd never been to prison. That changed Friday, when U.S. District Judge Timothy Corrigan sentenced Evans, 60, to 30 years in federal prison...
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Jan 30 2007
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Green Party J27 Rally in D.C. Called for Immediate Withdrawal of U.S. Troops from Iraq |
The Green Party of the United States held a rally against the Iraq War, calling for an immediate end of the U.S. occupation of Iraq, in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, January 27. The rally was one of a series of events connected with the January 27 'March on Washington' organized by United for Peace & Justice (UFPJ) <http://www.unitedforpeace.org>, as well as related events throughout the weekend. The Green Party endorsed the March with Greens from all over the U.S. traveling to Washington, D.C. to participate.
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Jan 30 2007
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The Homeland War |
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, 27 January 2007 - It was just another skirmish in the two-year war on migrants. Sixty minutemen, from San Diego Minutemen and Save Our State, tried to run day laborers out of San Juan Capistrano, but they were held at bay by thirty or so determined day laborers and their supporters. Full report by Leslie Radford
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Jan 30 2007
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PEACE VIDEO |
Greg Jones's Musical Message For World Peace
MUST SEE VIDEO ! Greg Jones' special musical message for world peace entitled God Bless the World-Not JUST America CD single....now powerful video....Pass this one on !
Click here to Watch Video and Read More about Greg Jones
MUST SEE VIDEO ! Greg Jones' special musical message for world peace entitled God Bless the World-Not JUST America CD single....now powerful video....Pass this one on !
Click here to Watch Video and Read More about Greg Jones
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Jan 30 2007
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Despite the Cold the Fight Continues |
A small group of people gathered today to make a stand for human rights as there has still been no indictment of the officers that shot and killed Sean Bell in November. Viola Plummer and Omowale Clay spoke to the gathering about taking a stand against the police, civil and human rights, and the removal of Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly.
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Jan 30 2007
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"My Brother is going to Baghdad"-video clips |
On January 27th, 2007 over 100 Iraq war demonstrators stood strong in Medford Oregon to show a voice united with those who marched in Washington D.C. and across the nation.
Hear interviews with family members of a soon to be deployed soldier.
Sister speaks out: "He was ROTC so he could pay for college, and in 2000 when he signed up for ROTC none of this was happening. So he kind of got stuck...Right now he's in the last week of training before he's sent over to Baghdad."
Father speaks out: "Let's be fair. If my son goes, his daughters go. If working people's kids have to go then he's a worker too."
Hear interviews with family members of a soon to be deployed soldier.
Sister speaks out: "He was ROTC so he could pay for college, and in 2000 when he signed up for ROTC none of this was happening. So he kind of got stuck...Right now he's in the last week of training before he's sent over to Baghdad."
Father speaks out: "Let's be fair. If my son goes, his daughters go. If working people's kids have to go then he's a worker too."
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Jan 30 2007
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IndyMedia Interview Prompts HUD Lawyers to Threaten Attorney with Gag Order |
Last week, attorney Bill Quigley, a distinguished professor of law, human rights and public housing rights defender, received a threatening "cease and desist" letter from the law firm representing the Housing Authority of New Orleans(HANO) and the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
The firm Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann claims Quigley's comments to the press on the housing situation in New Orleans--specifically mentioned is an interview posted on New Orleans IndyMedia--constitute "improper conduct." "We came across many reported statements by you to the press that prejudice HANO's position in this litigation, including but not limited to an audio recording of an interview you gave that is posted on the New Orleans Indy Media website," read the letter signed by Rachel Wisdom. More...
Read the letter | Listen to the targeted interview | Take Action
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Jan 30 2007
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ALERT! Military shipments will come through Olympia in March-April |
It was just learned that the military will not be using any other NW port and they are definitely coming through Olympia. This all makes sense now for the following reasons.
1) Those arrested for their action during the last Port of Olympia protest have their court date on a day when there is likely to be shipments coming in.
2) New ordinances were just passed in Olympia banning sitting on the sidewalk. Some of the language in the ordinances can apply to protesters.
All of this points to a very disturbing amount of cooperation and communcation between the military, our local government and the county court system.
1) Those arrested for their action during the last Port of Olympia protest have their court date on a day when there is likely to be shipments coming in.
2) New ordinances were just passed in Olympia banning sitting on the sidewalk. Some of the language in the ordinances can apply to protesters.
All of this points to a very disturbing amount of cooperation and communcation between the military, our local government and the county court system.
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Jan 30 2007
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The people want impeachment! |
My elected official told me that people don't have a desire for the "nightmare of impeachment." It is an emotional appeal but this has much substance as cotton candy.
The people support an impeachment process even though the Democrats do not. The polls showing support for impeachment have been trending upward. The most recent Zogby poll interviewed 1,200 U.S. adults from October 29 through November 2, 2006 and found that 53% agreed with the statement: "If President Bush did not tell the truth about his reasons for going to war with Iraq, Congress should consider holding him accountable through impeachment." 42% disagreed, and 5% said they didn't know or declined to answer. The poll has a +/- 2.9% margin of error.
The people want the Congress to hold the President accountable. Among Democrats and Independent voters--over 65% favoring an impeachment investigation.
The people support an impeachment process even though the Democrats do not. The polls showing support for impeachment have been trending upward. The most recent Zogby poll interviewed 1,200 U.S. adults from October 29 through November 2, 2006 and found that 53% agreed with the statement: "If President Bush did not tell the truth about his reasons for going to war with Iraq, Congress should consider holding him accountable through impeachment." 42% disagreed, and 5% said they didn't know or declined to answer. The poll has a +/- 2.9% margin of error.
The people want the Congress to hold the President accountable. Among Democrats and Independent voters--over 65% favoring an impeachment investigation.
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Jan 30 2007
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ARTE INSURGENTE - Stencils and Woodcuts from the streets of Oaxaca |
The popular social movement continues throughout the state of Oaxaca, even though many of its supporters have been forced underground, detained, disappeared and murdered. There are struggles over control of local town halls, over whether teachers supportive of the movement are allowed into their schools, and especially over the fate of political prisoners and others subject to human rights abuses.
Recently, a large collection of political art from an artists' collective in Oaxaca arrived in Portland. One of the artists described its significance as follows:
"In response to the lack of coverage of the social movement in Oaxaca by the mass media, young artists have taken to the streets. These young people have reclaimed urban art. In their works and on the walls in the cities, they portray the repression and the demands of the popular movement. Therein lies the value of their work as art and as a medium of communication. It is one of the strongest ways information is distributed concerning what has happened in Oaxaca."
Recently, a large collection of political art from an artists' collective in Oaxaca arrived in Portland. One of the artists described its significance as follows:
"In response to the lack of coverage of the social movement in Oaxaca by the mass media, young artists have taken to the streets. These young people have reclaimed urban art. In their works and on the walls in the cities, they portray the repression and the demands of the popular movement. Therein lies the value of their work as art and as a medium of communication. It is one of the strongest ways information is distributed concerning what has happened in Oaxaca."
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Jan 30 2007
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And Carl laughed |
Review and reflection on the production by Clayton High, "And Carl Laughed" about radical priest, Carl Kabat who is currently in jail for pouring blood and symbolically disarming a nuclear missle silo. Carl is 74, part of the local Catholic Worker community, an Oblate preist, and has spent about 16 years in prison for varies peace actions, often performed as a clown. The play is an poignant portrail of his life, filled with clowning, and original music.
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Jan 30 2007
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100,000+ March on Washington to End the Iraq War |
On a sunny Saturday in Washington D.C. on Jan. 27, 2007, 100,000+ people gathered on The Mall and marched around the Capital Building to highlight the point that Congress can and should bring an end to the U.S. invasion of Iraq. Chants includes "Bring the Troops Home Now," and "Hey Bush! Can't You See? All the People Disagree!"
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Jan 30 2007
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Critical Mass Miami: Saturday, February 10th we ride again! |
Friends and Fellow Cyclists.....Saturday, February 10th we ride again! This time we're meeting at the Government Center Metrorail Station (by the big fountain) at 10:00 a.m. and riding through the Design District.
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Jan 30 2007
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Rally to Defend Free Speech in Miami, Torch of Friendship, Saturday Feb. 3rd, 1 PM |
On Friday, January 19, a handful of people peacefully raised a banner in disagreement with a demonstration in support of Luis Posada Carriles, accused of bombing a civilian airliner in 1976, killing 73 people. Before a full minute had passed,the pro-Posada demonstrators, numbering roughly 100, had surged across the street and begun to physically assault these nonviolent counter-protesters. The police were nowhere to be seen.
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Jan 30 2007
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jackpine needs help fast! |
The Jack Pine Community Center, collectively run intergenerational space for organizing, is looking for collective members and one-time volunteers. If nothing changes we may close soon... if you're interested in seeing us remain open, please come to our next meeting, Friday, 2/2, 3-5pm or the following week, Thurs., 2/8, 6-8pm.
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Jan 30 2007
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Houstonians Protest War with Sheila Jackson Lee |
Several hundred Houstonians gatherred on Saturday January 28 to protest the escalation of war in Iraq. Local representatives from many organizations were undetered by the wet weather. The marchers silently convened on a downtown park several blocks from Congresswoman Lee's office. They organized into a large arc in the park and held signs up. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee attended and her office helped organize the event.
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Jan 30 2007
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New Videos from Mexico |
February 1st and 2nd at 8pm: Join filmmakers Vladimir Flores and Greg "Gringoyo" Berger as houston indymedia hosts an evening of short excerpts from over ten new documentary films by several different directors or video collectives covering the multiple stories which will forever mark 2006 as a milestone year for the Latin American left.
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Jan 30 2007
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MIAMI PROTEST: International Coal Industry Convention, Jan 31 - Feb 1 |
Activists will converge to confront coal kingpins at their exclusive annual gathering at the public entrance to the Ritz-Carlton resort in key Biscayne, Florida (Intersection of Crandon Blvd. and Grand Bay Drive) 5 miles driving from downtown Miami, on Wednesday January 31st and Thursday, February 1st from 9am to 1pm.
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Jan 30 2007
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J31 Reality Tour for Reporters Covering Super Bowl Opportunity to See the "Other Miami" |
Journalists coming to Florida to cover Super Bowl XLI will have an opportunity to get a firsthand glimpse of the great disparity of wealth in Miami through a “Reality Bus Tour” being sponsored by some of Miami’s largest grassroots organizations including Miami Workers Center, Power U Center for Social Change, and SEIU. The tour will take journalists to the demolished Scott Carver Homes and Umoja Village shantytown in Liberty City , Overtown and end in Little Haiti to hear from displaced residents and low-wage workers struggling to make ends meet.
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Jan 30 2007
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Hundreds of thousands march on Washington - Regional anti-war actions also |
Here in the real world HUNDREDS of thousands traveled to DC to protest the Bush regime
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Jan 30 2007
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The Demo in DC: Chirpy Slogans, Empty City |
I went to the protest on Saturday. At the end of it an old soldier from movements past said, "The problem is the people who organize these marches are too old. They're risk averse and institutionalized. And that's really it."
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Jan 30 2007
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STRIKE! |
Today, Twin Cities Janitors affiliated to SEIU Local 26 are getting ready for a strike and put all their hope in the contract bargaining taking place in the following days. They are asking for affordable health care and better conditions. If an agreement isn’t reached by Friday, February 2 they will go on strike and leave over 70 buildings in the Twin Cities full with trash.
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Jan 31 2007
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Anti-War Demonstrations take place in the Central Valley |
On Saturday, January 27th anti-war protests were held around the US to tell the new Congress to "represent the truly nationwide peace majority." United for Peace and Justice organized the largest march in Washington DC, where over one hundred thousand anti-war protesters circled the US capital.
In Sacramento, more than 100 people gathered at the intersection of Arden Way and Heritage Lane to protest the continued war and occupation. Photos In Fresno, there were 300 protestors at Peace Corner (the busiest intersection in town): Blackstone and Shaw. Photos: 1 | 2 | Video
In Sacramento, more than 100 people gathered at the intersection of Arden Way and Heritage Lane to protest the continued war and occupation. Photos In Fresno, there were 300 protestors at Peace Corner (the busiest intersection in town): Blackstone and Shaw. Photos: 1 | 2 | Video
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Jan 31 2007
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San Diego SOAW Activist Sentenced to Prison |
California residents Joshua Harris and Cathy Webster of San Diego and Chico, respectively, were each sentenced to 2 months in federal prison today by the Columbus, Georgia federal court. Harris, 30, and Webster, 61, are among 16 defendants, ranging in age from 17 to 71, who were charged with trespassing after peacefully walking onto the Fort Benning military base in protest of the School of the Americas/Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation (SOA/WHINSEC) this past November 19 during the annual School of the Americas Wach vigil at Ft. Benning.
"I'm here today because I believe there is a cause-effect relationship between the training that takes place at Ft. Benning and the human rights violations that continue to occur in Central and South America, even if the Pentagon does not recognize a cause-effect relationship," Harris said. Webster added, "I am a grandmother. I have come here to add my voice to the thousands who call for the closure of this notorious school which trains Latin American soldiers. There is a Hopi saying: 'When the grandmothers speak, the world will begin to heal.' Listen to the grandmothers."
Links: School of the Americas Watch | More about the SOA 16 | SOA/WHINSEC website
"I'm here today because I believe there is a cause-effect relationship between the training that takes place at Ft. Benning and the human rights violations that continue to occur in Central and South America, even if the Pentagon does not recognize a cause-effect relationship," Harris said. Webster added, "I am a grandmother. I have come here to add my voice to the thousands who call for the closure of this notorious school which trains Latin American soldiers. There is a Hopi saying: 'When the grandmothers speak, the world will begin to heal.' Listen to the grandmothers."
Links: School of the Americas Watch | More about the SOA 16 | SOA/WHINSEC website
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Jan 31 2007
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Lone Vet Report And Rant |
Will be in front of Sen. Wyden's office on Thursday, Feb 1-2007 from 11:45AM to about 1:30 PM. I truly believe the dems have to be kicked in the ass every few days or they will take the easy way out of this mess called the Occupation of Iraq.
Almost everyday I hear some NeoCon or a supporter of the Bush madness say something like, "We have not been attacked since 9/11 and that shows that Bush is doing a good job." I have to take deep breaths and say calming things under my breath in order not to throw something. We have been attacked again and again but not by al Qaeda.
We have been attacked by our own government in every way you can imagine, in our homes---in our churches---in our privacy---in our souls. The Bush administration has tortured, murdered and caused the rest of the world to wonder what terrible mental disease has struck the United States of America. This new illness should be called "Mental Syphilis." The Bill of Rights is now just a piece of paper, and Bush likes to make paper planes out of a copy of the Constitution. Wars and more wars!
Almost everyday I hear some NeoCon or a supporter of the Bush madness say something like, "We have not been attacked since 9/11 and that shows that Bush is doing a good job." I have to take deep breaths and say calming things under my breath in order not to throw something. We have been attacked again and again but not by al Qaeda.
We have been attacked by our own government in every way you can imagine, in our homes---in our churches---in our privacy---in our souls. The Bush administration has tortured, murdered and caused the rest of the world to wonder what terrible mental disease has struck the United States of America. This new illness should be called "Mental Syphilis." The Bill of Rights is now just a piece of paper, and Bush likes to make paper planes out of a copy of the Constitution. Wars and more wars!
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Jan 31 2007
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Anti-recruitment/militarism action in Olympia |
There will be an anti-recruitment/militarism action in Olympia on Feb 24th at 10:00 AM rather than 1:00 PM, as the previous post indicated. We will meet at Yauger Park on the West Side of Olympia. Yauger Park is pretty, so, to be more specific, we will be meeting at the North Eastern most corner of the park, right behind Safeway and the skatepark. From there, it is only a 1 minute walk to the recruiting center.
This is a decentralized event. Every independent act of promotion for this thing is more than welcomed, it is absolutely neccesary. Let's keep pushing it. Make sure you are there. We need to be in a state of revolt every day of our lives and actions such as these need to occur more often, independent of the umbrella-groups which have dominated the "movement" since the war began.
This is a decentralized event. Every independent act of promotion for this thing is more than welcomed, it is absolutely neccesary. Let's keep pushing it. Make sure you are there. We need to be in a state of revolt every day of our lives and actions such as these need to occur more often, independent of the umbrella-groups which have dominated the "movement" since the war began.
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Jan 31 2007
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GREECE: half of all universities occupied! 3 weeks of struggle… and it continues!! |
Greek universities are paralyzed. More than half of faculties nation wide (Universities and Colleges) are occupied by the students who refuse the privatization of Greek education system .Every day General Assemblies are organized and new faculties are added to the list. At side of the students we find also the university lecturer, primary and secondary education teachers and several trade-unions.
In the center of this new social explosion is the government's will (with the explicit agreement of the party of opposition, the PASOK, Socialist Party) to revise Article 16 of the Greek Constitution. This article guarantees a high quality, free and especially public education for all Greek citizens. It declares without ambiguity that only the State can provide this service and that any private person is explicitly prohibited to do it in its place or in parallel.
In the center of this new social explosion is the government's will (with the explicit agreement of the party of opposition, the PASOK, Socialist Party) to revise Article 16 of the Greek Constitution. This article guarantees a high quality, free and especially public education for all Greek citizens. It declares without ambiguity that only the State can provide this service and that any private person is explicitly prohibited to do it in its place or in parallel.
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Jan 31 2007
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OPEN CALL: How can Indymedia improve discussions and coverage? |
It's been a while since I saw a discussion here about the quality of coverage and the typcially nasty comments that plague this open-publishing. We need Indymedia for what it can do at its best (Think F15, The Indypendent, the RNC). But for too long, the wire has been dominated by cranks despite the best efforts of the site's administrators. So what is to be done with Indymedia? How can NYC Indymedia improve this situation.
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Jan 31 2007
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Oklahoma Independents Call for More Voter Choice |
Support urged for ballot access reform bill Oklahoma was the only state with just two choices for president in 2004. Voter choice again suffered in the 2006 general election, where half of state legislature races went unopposed. This lack of voter choice is due in part to Oklahoma ballot access laws, considered the most restrictive in the nation.
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Jan 31 2007
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Update: MO Marine must redeploy after he, mom protest in DC |
Tina Richards and her Marine son Cloy need your help for them and for all families being destroyed by this war. Cloy served two horrific tours in Iraq (read/listen here) and now is back home in Salem MO, attending college, rebuilding his life. Tina and Cloy, with many hundreds of other active military families and veterans, were in the forefront of Saturday's huge peace march in Washington DC. Now the Marines want to redeploy Cloy. Because of his medical conditions and Tina's advocacy, it does not seem likely that they will actually redeploy him. But there are thousands of other soldiers and marines facing this back-door draft, disrupting their families and futures.
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Jan 31 2007
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Inter-County connector dominates MoCo hearing on transportation |
On January 25, the Montgomery County Council held a public hearing on "transportation priorities." Much to their suprise but not to mine, opponents of the Inter County Connector highway dominated the hearing.
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Jan 31 2007
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Nashville's Homeless Ask Who Is Getting Affordable Housing at Mayor's Summit |
Nashville's homeless and friends held a brief rally today before the the Mayor's Housing Summit, hoping to draw the ear of the Mayor and other decision makers. The Mayor’s Fourth Housing Summit today focused on affordable housing. The Mayor was discussing Nashville's successes including the thousands of new affordable housing units since his original commitment in 2000 to build 35,000 affordable housing units by 2010. Members of the Homeless Power Project contends that affordable housing plans are not addressing the needs of the homeless community. The Nashville Homeless Power Project, homeless and formerly homeless people, brought several of their homeless members to the summit to listen to the Mayor's speech and advocate for more housing.
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Jan 31 2007
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New Orleans Police SWAT team ends occupation of St. Bernard |
At 2:30 am on January 31, NOPD SWAT members team raided the St. Bernard housing complex in an effort to flush out individuals occupying the community center as part of an ongoing campaign to reopen public housing in New Orleans. Two individuals were taken from the site and arrested.
Legal observers were denied access to the scene by SWAT team members wielding automatic weapons, and there are reports that supporters of the public housing advocates were turned away at gunpoint when they attempted to approach the housing complex.
Judge Hunter has ordered their release.
update 1:30 PM: both activists have been released from central lockup.
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Jan 31 2007
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Jazz and Justice - The Issue is Race and Black Leadership |
BlackAgendaReport.com joined the show to discuss race and Black "leadership"
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Jan 31 2007
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Dr. Makdisi Urges a One State Solution for Palestinians |
It is time for the Palestinians to abandon the notion of a two state solution, says Dr. Saree Makdisi. He’s an author, professor and frequent commentator on the Israel-Palestine conflict. He says the two state solution plays into Israel’s role as the dominant and occupying power. “A one state solution,” he argues, would reveal Zionist Israel as a “nakedly racist settler colonial enterprise...a state for one people at the expense of another.”
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Jan 31 2007
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SOA 16 Trial: Grand Island and Syracuse Residents Sentenced to Federal Prison |
New York residents Alice Gerard and Julienne Oldfield of Grand Island and Syracuse, respectively, were sentenced to federal prison today by the Columbus, Georgia federal court.
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Jan 31 2007
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Wasting Our Money |
The Community Service Society recently published a report on The Concerns of the Working Poor that shows New Yorkers biggest concern is the lack of affordable housing. This is an issue that Mayor Bloomberg could certainly do something about. While he has laid out an ambitious plan to build affordable housing, the Mayor has failed to even approach the amount of affordable housing needed by New Yorkers.
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Jan 31 2007
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We Love Political Prisoners- A benefit dinner for Peter Young and Kevin Kjonaas |
Feb 14 @ Seward Café 2129 E. Franklin Ave 7-10 pm $10-$50 sliding scale
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Jan 31 2007
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Worcester Indymedia News, January 31, 2007 |
Stories from this installment: Reaction to a screening of "An Inconvenient Truth"; Large peace vigil in Lincoln Square; Opening of Stone Soup artist/activist collective; Jacob Berendes on "the CSMF model"; Small, weekly peace vigil in Lincoln Square; Nat Needle performs "Even More Advice For Konnie Lukes" at the Sahara.
Download the mp4 video (27MB).
You can subscribe via Democracy and see all WoIndy video reports as they are posted.
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Jan 31 2007
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Eminent Domain at Atlantic Yards Mapped |
DDDB.net has a nice new map showing just how much property Bruce Ratner and the State of New York need to take from people to build the Atlantic Yards project
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Jan 31 2007
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Local Reporter: World Social Forum/AbuGhraib |
I attended one presentation where two women from Abu Ghraib gave their testimony about their treatment by American soldiers . . . . One woman started to give her testimony in Arabic, when the room erupted with "Alakbar, alakbar, down with USA, alakbar, alakbar, down with Bush, down with USA, down with Bush!". (Amen, amen, down with USA….). These men thrust their arms up in unison with each line, and I about jumped in my chair. (This was when I flipped over the badge stating my name and country.)
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Jan 31 2007
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Military Drops Two Charges Against Lt. Ehren Watada |
On January 30th, Army prosecutors of Lt. Ehren Watada dropped two charges of "conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman." These two charges-each of which carried a one year possible prison sentence-were based on interviews Lt. Watada held with Oakland-based independent journalist Sarah Olson and Greg Kakesako of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin. In exchange for the dropping of the two charges, Watada agreed to testify that he made the comments attributed to him by the reporters.Watada still faces up to four years' confinement on three other charges. With the dropping of the two charges against Watada, the Army no longer needs Sarah Olson or Greg Kakesako to testify.
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Jan 31 2007
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Report Back from the National Conference for Media Reform |
I recently attended the National Conference for Media Reform, which was organized by FreePress. In case you're not at all familiar with the issues, here is a thumbnail sketch: The oligarchy has been controlling the mass communications media, and biasing it heavily to support their worldview. We need to recapture the mass media, as much as possible. And whatever alternative or independent media they don't control, we need to learn to use as effectively as possible. All other issues could be viewed as subordinate to this one -- if the people can't hear the truth about the war, about healthcare, about unfair taxes, etc., then we can't win any of those battles.
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Feb 01 2007
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Over a Thousand People Rally to Protest War in Downtown Austin. Now What? |
With slogans like "Purge the Surge" and "Impeach Bush Now" Austinites again rallied in opposition to President Bush's war of choice in Iraq. The protest saw an increase in numbers since anti-war momentum tapered off in late 2003, leaving many hopeful that nationwide mass mobilizations will help end the U.S. occupation of Iraq. However, I spoke with several people at the rally who remained depressed about the state of the anti-war movement in this country. About a dozen people that I talked to only attended the rally in order to see the turnout, and remained doubtful of the effectiveness of such demonstrations. "We need to see more direct action against the war machine," said one demonstrator, "marching through downtown and waving American flags isn't going to change anything." She cited recent actions against recruiting stations in Pittsburgh as an example of how to effectively challenge the government's ability to wage war. There, the Pittsburgh Organizing Group or POG, has built popular support for ongoing demonstrations that have actually shut down a recruiting station, while also informing countless would-be recruits of the real perils of joining Washington's war machine. In fact, counter-recruitment groups are forming across the country with the aims of disrupting the day-to-day operations of recruiting stations, and dispelling the myths of easy money, job training, and equal rights for women and homosexuals in the military. This past weekend demonstrators across the country took the time to come together and combine their voices in the hope that the President and his advisers will heed their warnings about escalating an already failed imperial enterprise. It seems clear however, that the decision makers and war profiteers are determined to perpetuate and even expand Bush's Terror War. The very waging of this war despite unprecedented opposition and record setting numbers at protests should be proof enough that those in the Bush Administration do not care what demonstrators in the streets, or representatives in Congress for that matter, have to say. In the words of one seasoned anti-war activist at Saturday's rally, "its time people in Austin and around the country get serious about stopping this war. We need to make it so that they can't have this war. If we are serious about this, then it is within our capabilities to shut them down." Other Personal Accounts of the rally || Photos from the rally 1 | 2 || Video from the Rally For More on Counter-Recruitment Efforts See: The Yinzer's Guide to Countering Military Recruitment || counter-recruitment.org || Nonmilitary Options for Youth || GI Rights Hotline || militaryfreezone.org
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Feb 01 2007
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Public Access TV Future At Stake in Illinois Legislative Fight |
The biggest struggle in the local media policy scene in 2007 might be the forthcoming fight over state video franchises and the resulting impacts on community media infrastructure in Illinois.
Phone companies like Verizon and AT&T want to push their version of cable television, but they don’t want to pay costs for public service obligations like building technical infrastructure to poor communities, paying for community media centers, or providing public access channels (which airs local shows like Chicago Independent Television and Labor Beat).
Phone companies have been working to change laws at the state level to reduce or eliminate such obligations, pushing for state video franchises which would remove control and funding for local cable from local governments. More than a dozen states have changed their laws to include state video franchises, and Illinois is the next target.
The Illinois General Assembly will convene this year, and the Illinois Telecommunications Act (the main state law concerning media and the internet) is scheduled for a rewrite. A coalition is assembling to struggle on behalf of local rights, much like a similar struggle and victory in 2005. Read more
Additional coverage: Daily Herald: AT&T pushes for state video franchises
Related links: CAN TV | Alliance for Community Media | SaveAccess.org | Free Press: Defend Local Access | Chicago Media Action
Phone companies like Verizon and AT&T want to push their version of cable television, but they don’t want to pay costs for public service obligations like building technical infrastructure to poor communities, paying for community media centers, or providing public access channels (which airs local shows like Chicago Independent Television and Labor Beat).
Phone companies have been working to change laws at the state level to reduce or eliminate such obligations, pushing for state video franchises which would remove control and funding for local cable from local governments. More than a dozen states have changed their laws to include state video franchises, and Illinois is the next target.
The Illinois General Assembly will convene this year, and the Illinois Telecommunications Act (the main state law concerning media and the internet) is scheduled for a rewrite. A coalition is assembling to struggle on behalf of local rights, much like a similar struggle and victory in 2005. Read more
Additional coverage: Daily Herald: AT&T pushes for state video franchises
Related links: CAN TV | Alliance for Community Media | SaveAccess.org | Free Press: Defend Local Access | Chicago Media Action
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Feb 01 2007
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Janitors Rally through Minneapolis Skyways |
SEIU Local 26 and their allies marched through the skyways of Minneapolis today, demanding their rights.
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Feb 01 2007
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150,000 March Against Iraq war on Jan. 27 in Wash, DC |
Message of “Impeach Bush” fills the streets around Congress Next Step: March on the Pentagon Saturday, March 17th